Chapter 1910

chapter1910

Vivian showered Manfred with praise, her words flowing without hesitation. "You're incredible, Manfred. When I first read this book, I lacked the patience to grasp it fully. I mostly relied on intuition. But you after just one explanation, you understood it perfectly. You're the most talented person I've ever met."

Flattered by the praise, Manfred couldn't help but feel a bit proud, though he humbly replied, "I'm not as exceptional as you say."

"If I say you're amazing, then you are!" Vivian replied, her tone sincere. She wasn't trying to flatter him; she genuinely recognized his talent.

Manfred chuckled softly. "Alright, if you insist, I must be."

He had been staying up late for several nights, determined to finish the book. Deep down, he thought her praise might just be the motivation he needed to push even harder.

Outside the study, Kemp stood guard, overhearing Manfred's self-talk and occasional laughter. He kept a straight face, unfazed by the peculiar sounds.

Alger had once said that the woman around Manfred wasn't just ordinary; she possessed knowledge vast enough to be considered celestial beings, capable of teaching even him.

Anyone who could mentor Alger was extraordinary. Yet, it was clear that no one held Manfred's attention quite like Vivian. Even Glen, despite his seniority, never received such patience and care.

Just then, a doorman approached Kemp with a message. "Mr. Schwartz, Mr. Crispin, Mr. Vernon, and Princess Bonnie have arrived. They wish to meet Mr. Atkinson. Is he available to meet with them?"

"Mr. Crispin? Please wait a moment. I'll check with Mr. Atkinson," Kemp replied.

Had it been anyone else, Kemp would have dismissed them outright, especially after visiting Holland Residence that morning to ask Alger not to come. But Crispin's involvement warranted confirmation.

Kemp went to the study and called out to Manfred, "Mr. Atkinson, Mr. Crispin, Mr. Vernon, and Princess Bonnie are here. Do you wish to meet with them?"

Manfred's expression darkened slightly upon hearing his words. "Tell them I'm feeling unwell today. I'll meet with them another time."

Vivian was surprised. "You don't want to see Princess Bonnie?"

"I've never wanted to see her," Manfred replied seriously, his words measured and clear.

Had he not feared startling Vivian, he might have confessed he didn't want to meet anyone but her. Every moment with Vivian felt precious, and meeting others seemed like a needless distraction.

Vivian nodded. "I'll continue then."

"Alright. After we finish these two pages, I'll take you to pick some fabric so the tailor can make the clothes. That way, when we leave Vlario in a few days, you'll have something new to wear," Manfred said gently.

"Thanks, Manfred," Vivian replied.

Crispin, Vernon, and Bonnie were slightly surprised to learn that Manfred was unwell and couldn't meet with them today.

The doorman, quick-witted as always, had already prepared a story on his way back from delivering the news.

"Mr. Atkinson has been feeling ill since yesterday, but we don't know the cause. We offered to call physician, but he declined, insisting a couple of days' rest would suffice."

Hearing this, the three exchanged meaningful looks, a silent understanding passing between them.

Once they were inside the carriage, they began sharing their thoughts.

Bonnie spoke up first. "Do you think it could be because of that copper mirror? I've been able to sleep soundly now, but maybe he was hurt while dealing with it."

Her heart ached at the thought of the sacrifices Manfred had made for her.