Is it from kneeling? Your voice sounds strained.


    Is it from reciting Buddhist scriptures?”


    Graham shot a nce at Lucinda, puzzled by why she was divulging their family matters to an outsider.


    Nevertheless, he responded, “Yes.


    ”


    N was taken aback.


    “Even though I understand it’s a private matter, I’m still curious.


    Are the rules in the Simmons family exceptionally stringent?”


    Lucinda delicately lifted the second cup of tea, blowing on it before calmly replying, “The Simmons family members are generally quiteid-back.


    Any perceived strictness is solely directed at Graham.


    ”


    Both Graham and Violeta were stunned into silence, exchanging bewildered nces with each other.


    N’s gaze shifted towards Lucinda, her brows furrowing with a mixture of curiosity and perplexity.


    Tilting her head slightly to the side, she ventured forth with a question that echoed the sentiments swirling in her mind, “Why? Mr.


    Simmons is undeniably exceptional in many regards.


    What prompts the family to single him out for such scrutiny?”


    “The specifics are a private matter for our family.


    It wouldn’t be appropriate to divulge them, Miss Diaz,” Lucinda replied.


    “Oh, I see.


    ” N ceased her inquiries, lowering her head in contemtion.


    Observing N’s demeanor, Lucinda offered a warm smile and redirected the conversation.


    “Miss Diaz, which hotel have you been staying attely? Are you finding itfortable? If you prefer the tranquility of Peace Mountain, you’re wee to stay here for a few days.


    I can make the arrangements for you.


    ”


    Graham and Violeta were taken aback.


    However, as head of the household, Lucinda had the authority to arrange for a friend to stay at Graham’s vi for a few days.


    Everything hinged on N’s response.N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    The trio turned their attention to N.


    Under their watchful eyes, N beamed with an innocent and hopeful smile.


    “I’m really pleased with Lucinda’s suggestion.


    I’ll be in the care of Mr.


    and Mrs.


    Simmons then.


    ”


    Throughout the conversation, Graham had been quiet.


    His recent nights spent in contemtion of Buddhist scriptures had lent him a newfound serenity, a stark contrast to his once fiery demeanor.


    Violeta offered a courteous smile.


    “As a friend of Lucinda’s, and since you wish to stay here, we’ll ensure you’re well amodated.


    Could you tell us which hotel your belongings are at, Miss Diaz?


    We’ll send security to collect them for you.


    ”


    “Thank you, Mrs.


    Simmons.


    ” N stepped closer to Violeta, sping her hands with joy.


    “I’ve never had siblings, but you make me feel as if I’ve found a sister.


    ”


    Violeta, with her hands in N’s, managed a strained smile.


    “I’m d to hear that.


    Please, let me know if there’s anything you need.


    ”


    “Thank you, Mrs.


    Simmons,” N repeated.


    Lucinda was savoring her third cup of tea as she observed N closely, pondering over her words, yet the vor of the tea escaped her.


    As N engaged Violeta in conversation, Lucinda abruptly spoke to Graham.


    “In theing days, adjust your previous sanction to the afternoon.


    There’s no need for physical punishment.


    Instead, spend time in the ancestral temple, kneeling and reading Buddhist texts.


    It’s a form of reflection.


    ”