When Two Winters Met (Henrietta and Yosef) novel Chapter 290

Only then did Henrietta remember. This was the youngest son of the Leland family, Aster Leland. He was also an adopted son. Aster Leland wasn't old, just twenty and still in college. Despite his innocent, almost cherubic features, his entire aura screamed arrogance and a brash, fearless confidence. He was, in fact, a notorious playboy in their circle, known for his wild lifestyle of parties and indulgence. Rumor had it that Joaquin doted on this younger brother, which probably explained his unbridled audacity. “Joaquin, you’re here too,” Aster Leland said, walking over and naturally sliding into the seat next to Henrietta. The scent of his cologne was a bit strong, and Henrietta instinctively shifted away. Joaquin glared at him, his dark expression not improving. “Shouldn’t you be in class? What are you doing here? Get back to school.” “It’s lunchtime, Joaquin,” Aster said simply. Joaquin fell silent. “I’m hungry,” Aster announced. He snapped his fingers to call a waiter and started ordering for himself without a second thought. Henrietta put down her cutlery and reached for a napkin, about to say she was leaving. But then Aster leaned on the table, propping his head up with one hand and tilting it as he looked at her. He smiled. “Henrietta, you truly are Juno City’s untouchable Ice Queen. Seeing you up close, you’re so beautiful it makes a man…” He trailed off, leaving the sentence unfinished. His eyes, clear and clever like a fox’s, were quite striking. Aster changed the subject. “No wonder you’ve got Joaquin completely bewitched, refusing to let go even after you’re married.” After saying that, he shot a smiling glance at Joaquin. Joaquin threw his fork into his plate and stood up. “Get back to school.” He looked ready to physically drag him out. “I’m hungry. You won’t even let me eat?” Aster said, his tone turning cold and displeased. “I’ve already ordered. What are you yelling about?” It was no surprise, really. Joaquin's attitude would make anyone unhappy. Perhaps because they were in public, Joaquin reluctantly sat back down and continued eating. Henrietta had finished wiping her mouth and was about to announce her departure. But the insufferable Aster turned to her again. “Beautiful, I'm starting to think I like you too!” His words genuinely startled Henrietta. She was completely baffled. What did he mean? Before the blind date, she barely knew Joaquin, let alone Aster Leland. For him to suddenly say something like that… While Henrietta was still in shock, Aster continued, “Joaquin has great taste. I’m going to pursue you too, Henrietta!” His declaration made Charlotte and Winona drop their forks onto their plates with a clatter. What… was happening? Joaquin finally lost it, slamming his hand on the table. “What nonsense are you spouting?!” Aster looked completely innocent. “I’m not spouting nonsense. I’m serious.” He propped his head on his hand again, gazing at Henrietta. “So beautiful. Like a sculpted doll. Henrietta, why don’t you consider me? I’m young, obedient, and have great stamina. Whatever you say, I’ll listen.” Henrietta was speechless. So were Winona and Charlotte. Without waiting for a response, Aster turned to Joaquin. “If you can like her and pursue her, why can’t I? I like her very much too. Just for her beauty alone… it was love at first sight.” Henrietta finally couldn’t take it anymore. She stood up and faced Joaquin. “Is your entire family… this insane?” She was married! To Yosef, no less! It was bad enough that one lunatic, the head of the Leland family, was shamelessly pursuing her even after her marriage. Now Aster was joining in? What was this? Joaquin’s face was grim. “Don’t mind him. He’s... completely unhinged.” “Henrietta, forget about my brother. Listen to me,” Aster cooed. This kid's smooth-talking mouth had clearly gotten him far. Henrietta looked at him. “I barely even know you. What kind of stunt are you pulling?” Aster blinked innocently. “Henrietta, once a stranger, twice a friend. I was too young before. But now I can pursue you. It was truly love at first sight for me. One look, and I knew I was in deep trouble. I’ve been obsessed ever since.” Henrietta took a deep breath. “I’m married.” “What does it matter if you’re married?” Aster replied. “Does marriage mean I can’t pursue you? I can wait for you, Henrietta. Wait until you fall for me…” “Aster Leland, get your ass back home!” Joaquin yelled, throwing a napkin box at him. Aster caught it and placed it on the table. “Joaquin, why can you pursue her but I can’t? That’s not fair.” Henrietta was done. “Let’s go,” she said urgently to Winona and Charlotte. They couldn't stand the bizarre turn of events either. “Okay, let’s go,” they said, immediately standing up. The three of them hurried away. Aster watched Henrietta’s retreating figure with a wistful look. “Sigh, even the way she runs is beautiful.” Hearing that, the three women didn't know what to say and walked even faster. Joaquin turned to Aster, his expression still dark. “Are you looking to die?” Aster stood up. “Now that Henrietta’s gone, I I’ve lost my appetite. Enjoy your meal, Big Brother.” With that, he also left. Joaquin shoved the plates off the table, smashing them on the floor.