Watching You Burn In Regret novel Chapter 103

Meanwhile, at the Crestwell Family Estate—

Autumn Clarity Beyond the Pass was one of Seren's favorite pieces to practice with; copying it was effortless for her.

But today, she slowed her pace, mindful of Lisbeth sitting beside her.

This was just a friendly exchange, not a show of skill. Seren had always been the reserved, understated type, never one to seek the spotlight.

Jason may not have understood watercolor landscapes, but years in the business world had taught him to read a room.

He could tell by the way Lisbeth furrowed her brow and occasionally scratched her head in frustration that she was struggling. Seren, on the other hand, looked completely at ease, her brush gliding across the paper in elegant, fluid strokes. It was obvious she could have finished far sooner, but she was holding back for Lisbeth's sake.

Jason nodded quietly, a flicker of approval in his eyes.

Graceful and calm, humble and polite, gifted yet never arrogant—Seren was the very picture of quiet elegance.

Nothing at all like the rumors that painted her as proud and aloof.

Now, Jason thought, perhaps it wasn't such a bad thing that Lennon had waited a few extra years. Seren was well worth it.

When it came to his future daughter-in-law, Jason cared little for family background or business alliances; the Crestwells had no need for strategic marriages. What mattered to him was character. After all, the family's motto had always been: "Marry for virtue, and prosperity will follow."

As the sun dipped behind the hills, Seren and Lisbeth finished their paintings almost simultaneously.

There was no competition—just a friendly exercise—so no winner or loser. Yet when the two paintings were placed side by side, it was clear to everyone that Seren's work stood out. It was hard to pinpoint exactly why, but her copy of Autumn Clarity Beyond the Pass had an undeniable vitality—a sense of atmosphere so strong you could almost feel the mist and see the jagged peaks spring to life on the paper.

Shirley tugged Jason's sleeve, pride coloring her voice. "So? What do you think of your daughter-in-law? She's quite remarkable, isn't she?"

Seren ticked every box for Shirley—looks, temperament, talent, and character. She couldn't be happier with her choice.

Jason actually smiled. "She is remarkable."

All his former reservations about Seren had vanished. In fact, he found himself thinking he wouldn't mind waiting a little longer for a grandchild if it meant having someone like Seren join the family.

He looked at Lennon. "Lennon, you'd better take Seren up to your room. She's had a long day and must be exhausted."

Jason chimed in as well. "Go on. Your mother already had the staff prepare your room."

His expression was still stern, but his tone was warm.

Seren felt her last bit of anxiety melt away. Jason, her father-in-law, was clearly pleased with her.

Later, Seren realized how differently she felt about Lennon compared to Sheridan. During her three years at The Golden Age, Diana Yates had made her dislike clear, but Seren had never cared. The Powers family's coldness, even Garry's condescension, had never gotten under her skin. She hadn't even given it a second thought, let alone been nervous about it.

Lennon nodded calmly. "Alright."

As Lennon passed by, Old Mr. Crestwell discreetly patted his grandson's hand and murmured softly, just for him to hear, "I've done what you asked, and this is as far as I can go. The rest is up to you."

He couldn't help but sigh at himself—an old man, running around just to make sure his grandson's wife stayed the night, worrying over every little detail. But then he thought of how happy Lennon and Seren seemed together, and how he might soon have a great-grandchild. Suddenly, all his efforts felt worthwhile.