Upon hearing that Matthew had given Harper priceless betrothal presents, everyone in the imperial capital became suspicious. Even the emperor had doubts about his true intentions. He thought that Matthew might be planning something. Otherwise, why would he give such an expensive bride price for a woman whose previous engagement had been called off?

"Uncle Matthew, I heard that you just gave a very costly bride price to Harper. With all due respect, are you?—"

"Am I blind? Is that what you're thinking of?" Matthew cut in before Lucas could finish speaking.

"Indeed, Harper is such a pleasant woman, but I don't think she's suitable to be your wife," Lucas valiantly reasoned. When he saw that Matthew didn't react negatively, he continued, "She looks gentle, but the truth is that she's very cruel and callous. From what I've gathered, every single person in the Chu Clan mansion is subdued and obedient to her. Her sister, Hailey, died of an incurable illness. And Hansen had an even more tragic end. Uncle

you," the masked man stated. "But I wonder if my sudden visit offends such a beauty."

With that remark, Harper couldn't help but laugh. "Since you're here, I have something to talk to you about."

"Are you going to tell me about your engagement?" With unspeakable complexity in his tone, the masked man seemed to already know what Harper was going to say.

"Well, you're right. Anyways, the plum blossoms have just bloomed. I'd like to use some of them to cook wine for us. Mister Demon, please don't refuse it."

"Well, if you insist." The masked man helped Harper pick some plum blossoms. Their figures under the tree looked so harmonious.

Looking at them together, Nina sighed, "Alas, why couldn't Lady Harper marry Mister Demon instead? They really are the perfect match!"

The corners of Forsythia's mouth twitched a little. She patted Anabel's back and said, "Let's go to the kitchen and prepare some food for them. It's a little cold for us to stay outside, so they must be feeling cold as well."