Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1897

Lambert couldn't deny it. He simply chuckled and asked, "What do you think?"

The butler maintained a stern expression. "In a short while, Miss Linda will be visiting Citadel. If you have any affections for a lady outside, it would be preferable to keep her at arm's length." Lambert scoffed, "She's the fiancée my father chose, not me. I never agreed to it!"

"The value of your opinion is negligible!" the butler retorted.

As Lambert continued walking inside, he abruptly turned at the butler's words, giving the seemingly respectful yet controlling butler a cold smile. "I finally understand why dad sent you to be by my side." "Oh?" The butler looked up, puzzled.

"Because," Lambert said with a malicious grin, "my dad must despise you as well!"

Unperturbed, the butler replied, "The Brennan family creed is clear - better to be a loyal servant scorned by the master than a sycophant."

Speechless, Lambert sighed. "Rest assured, she's not my woman. She's my new bodyguard."

"Bodyguard?" The butler was even more bewildered. "Do you lack for protection?"

"In a few days, I am having a meeting in Zion. Ordinary bodyguards tend to draw unwanted attention. I need someone who appears unthreatening by my side to handle matters for me," Lambert explained with a profound gaze.

The butler was doubtful of Lambert's choice. "Is she capable of protecting you?"

Lambert nodded. "I've tested her today. Her skills, patience, and vigilance are all up to par. She'll make an excellent bodyguard."

Still skeptical, the butler pressed on. "Even if she knows self-defense, that doesn't guarantee her loyalty. Besides, we still need to investigate whether she can be trusted."

Lambert laughed dismissively, full of self-assurance. "With my good looks, she'll stay loyal. And even if she's a spy, I'll charm her into switching sides."

The butler simply sighed, changing the subject. "Earlier today, the old master called to inquire about the collaboration with Zion."

Lambert's playful demeanor vanished, replaced by a serious tone. "We can't make a decision yet. I need to assess the situation in person before deciding."

Estelle was settled into a third-floor guest room, complete with a large balcony.

Standing on the balcony, she could survey most of the estate's grounds and the dark expanse of the sea beyond.

The estate comprised a main castle and four smaller ones, all encircled by towering and sturdy walls, with watchtowers at each corner staffed by guards around the clock.

After spending some time on the balcony, Estelle heard a knock on her door. It was a servant bringing her a bedtime snack, a new robe, and fresh clothes.

After setting everything down, the servant respectfully offered to assist Estelle with a body massage.

Estelle declined the offer and took the robe and clothes to the bathroom for a shower.

She hadn't bathed in two days. After spending the previous night in a makeshift shelter, she was indeed in need of a thorough cleanse.

After the shower, Estelle felt hungry. But she was more overpowered by fatigue. Despite the tempting sight of cheesy baked rice and grilled steak, she had no appetite. She collapsed onto the bed and fell asleep instantly.

The next morning, Estelle awoke on the large bed, the sunlight streaming in and instantly sharpening her gaze.

She got up and made her way to the balcony, where she saw Lambert playing golf on the castle's lawn, clad in a crisp white tracksuit that hugged his lean figure. Servants and the butler surrounded him, holding golf bags and coffee, serving with reverence.

Estelle glanced over briefly, then gazed toward the sea, where the waves shimmered and crashed against the rocky shore in a breathtaking display.

The beach was beautiful but empty, likely to be part of the Brennan family's private property.

A knock at the door came, and the servant inquired if Estelle would like breakfast.

She nodded and then proceeded to freshen up and change.

After breakfast, the servant came back to her and said, "Miss, the young master requests your presence in the study."