Three Years Forgotten, Why Go Crazy When I Say Goodbye? novel Chapter 261

Willow had heard long ago that wealthy families were particularly superstitious about feng shui and traditions. The Sinclair family had been exactly like that, so it stood to reason that a top-tier dynasty like the Thorne family would have their own rigid customs. She understood and respected their beliefs.

But giving a gift this expensive seemed unnecessary.

"Still, giving a bangle like this is too much. It's incredibly valuable."

Silas continued his persuasion. "The bangle carries good meaning. It represents peace and smooth sailing, making it the perfect New Year's blessing. Besides, your last name is engraved inside. That means profound fortune and lifelong luck."

He practically exhausted every blessing-related vocabulary word he had ever learned in his life, feeling quite drained by the effort.

Willow thought his explanation made sense, but she had no way to offer a gift of equal value in return. "I still think it's too much. If I accept it, I can't give you anything nearly as expensive back. It just doesn't feel right."

"You don't need to worry about that," Silas said, instantly improvising a new excuse the moment he sensed her wavering. "This rule only applies to the men. It has nothing to do with women."

"What?" Willow was utterly shocked. She had never heard of such a rule in her life. "You're not just making this up, are you?"

"Of course not," Silas said, feigning utter seriousness. "Why would I joke about something like this? This tradition affects both of us. It dictates our happiness and safety for the entire year. I wouldn't lie to you."

"So, just accept it. Do it for me," Silas pressed.

Willow remained torn, but after a moment of intense internal debate, she decided to take it—not as a permanent gift, but just to hold onto it for him temporarily.

They chatted for a few more minutes before Silas had to leave. It was the last day of the holidays, and work resumed tomorrow. He needed to get a head start on planning his schedule.

Willow knew he was wonderful, but reality wasn't that simple. She gave Martha a direct answer. "Please don't bring this up again. There is absolutely no chance between us."

"Why?" Martha sounded genuinely confused. "Is it because of Julian? You're about to divorce him anyway. You don't need to factor him into this at all."

"Of course not." Julian meant absolutely nothing to her anymore.

"Then what is it?" Martha refused to let it go. "I can tell he really cares about you. Why wouldn't it be possible?"

Willow let out a heavy sigh. "He already has someone he loves."