Avery maintained an air of indifference, his eyebrows barely flinching.
“Mr. Gardner, this is an issue between the Gordon family and the Jennings family. Let them resolve it on their own. It's advisable for outsiders not to meddle.”
“You—” Solomon, growing frustrated, countered, “This is enabling! Don't assume that just because the Cox family and the Gordon family are in alliance, you can dictate terms within the Bartitsu Guild. The Bartitsu Guild is not a place where you can always have your way!”
In contrast, Neera let out a soft chuckle, her striking eyes tinged with a hint of mockery.
“Mr. Gardner, why do you always twist the intentions of others? I never aspired to dominate within the Bartitsu Guild or assert undue authority. From the very start, it was the Jennings family causing the disruption. If you wish to mediate, why don't you counsel the Jennings family? You claim that Mr. Cox favors the Gordon family, but why don't you acknowledge your favoritism toward the Jennings family in their wrongful actions? What kind of logic is that?”
She possessed a gift for logical reasoning, and if the other party sought trouble, she had no qualms about teaching them a lesson.
“Moreover, Ms. Jennings insulted and slandered me and the Gordon family. She displayed no respect. If I had done nothing, wouldn't it have made the Gordon family a laughingstock? Mr. Gardner, suppose someone recklessly trampled on the dignity of your family. Would you still stand by with a smile and offer your hand for them to strike? If so, I must say, I would genuinely admire you...”
Solomon couldn't believe the audacity of this young lady.
Despite her youth and lack of a prominent background, on her very first appearance in such a setting, she showed no signs of intimidation.
Instead, she exuded confidence and the capacity to contend with others.
He had clearly underestimated her!
At that moment, he found himself struck dumb, his face flushing with frustration.
Yet, as the head of the Gardner family, revealing his emotions too openly, especially in front of an unfamiliar young lady, would be a source of embarrassment.
Consequently, he repressed his anger, attempting to salvage his composure.
“Young lady, where do your words lead us? We are all members of the Bartitsu Guild, comrades within the same faction. We should treat each other with respect and avoid unnecessary conflicts that tarnish everyone's reputation, don't you agree?”
Neera regarded him calmly, her inner amusement unmistakable.
Just moments ago, he had been overbearing, and now he was trying to play peacemaker.
It was too late for that.
If it hadn't already besmirched the Gordon family's reputation, she might have considered a different approach.
However, as the head of the Gordon family, to back down now after being verbally attacked right from the outset, and in front of so many witnesses, would truly disgrace the Gordon family!
“Mr. Gardner's words hold merit; mutual respect is essential,” Neera stated after a brief pause, her tone measured and devoid of emotion. “I believe that, as leaders of our respective families, we should distinguish ourselves in both competence and character. Given our shared rationality, resolving this matter should be straightforward. Ms. Jennings may have acted hastily and shown disrespect to the Gordon family. I don't wish to escalate this any further. Why don't we all take a step back? If Ms. Jennings genuinely offers an apology, my people will step aside immediately, and we can consider this matter closed. What do you think?”
Once Neera was done with her statement, Stella erupted in anger.
“Who do you think you are? Why should I apologize to you? You, of all people...”
Her words were abruptly cut off as Charles' blade crept nearer, leaving a visible mark on her skin.
Stella, trembling with fear, let out a high-pitched cry. “You— You're serious? How dare you...”
Neera's lips curved into a sly, half-smile. “Don't assume I'm bluffing. I can't afford to jest with you.”
“Do you believe the Gordon family holds such sway that the Jennings family would cower in fear?” Stella challenged.
“Very well, let's go all out and find out,” Neera responded, her tone growing more casual. In moments like these, she needed to stand her ground; no matter what, she couldn't afford to lose her momentum.
“But here's the unfortunate reality: to catch a thief, you must first catch their leader. Your life is at the mercy of my people right now. Even if your associates are skilled, they can't stop the blade at your throat. Do you think they dare to act now?”
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Enigmatic Return (Neera and Jean)
What kind of stupid confusion is this, how come she didn't know that the my bourvart they are talking about is Jean?...
Author uses too many words to describe useless things and then don't clarify others, who is this aunts friend. Neere went to play golf with who?...
Why is she keeping so many secrets from Jean?...
is it too much to ask, when are they going to know that Jean is the father of her triplets???? the man that night 6yrs ago is Jean???!!!!!!...
Chapter 328, did Alfonso not meet Jeann before, how does he not recognise him huh...
I'm a bit confused, does Roxanna not know that her sister is married..this chapter makes it look like she doesn't know but they already went to Jean for money huh...
Too many words to explain somethings, it's a waste.......
Good Day Dear Author! i just want to ask, why it cant read in normal format? the sentences for every chapter is cut, almost half of the sentence is cut thats why cant read it as whole. Thankyou....