"If that's your decision... then let's do it your way," Katharine said, visibly relieved.
She had initially wanted to help her brother, but Peterson had immediately brought up the issue of interests. Without any personal gain, there was no need to sacrifice the rest of her life.
Seeing Katharine visibly relax, Peterson curiously asked, "Why are you the only woman who has discussed marriage with me but doesn't want to marry me?"
Peterson's directness prompted Katharine to be open about it. "Because I already have someone I love."
"I see," Peterson responded.
"What about you?" During their conversation, Katharine had completely relaxed and playfully smiled as she questioned Peterson. "If you claim that you don't need marriage to secure the family's status, why do you keep meeting those potential alliance partners over and over again?"
"Because when I choose a partner, I also have to consider their family background and social status."
Peterson paused before continuing, "Otherwise, I'll end up like my brother, constantly arguing with his wife."
Katharine was puzzled, "Why would they argue?"
Peterson responded while driving, "Only through arguing can they resolve the conflicts arising from differences in family background and education."
Naturally, Katharine understood this, "So you've had such an experience."
Peterson raised an eyebrow, "Yeah."
His current demeanor was in stark contrast to his previous gentlemanly image, which made Katharine burst into laughter.
The tension between the two had completely dissipated. They exchanged contact information.
After a leisurely drive around town, Peterson dropped Katharine at her place.
As Katharine was unbuckling her seatbelt, she noticed a shadow lurking in the corner near her front door.
She paused. If she wasn't mistaken, that shadow was Caleb.
"Looks like the guy you've fallen for has the hots for you too."
Peterson's calm voice brought Katharine back from her thoughts.
"He rejected me."
Meaning he wouldn't fall for her.
"Do you want to test him?"
"How?"
Katharine turned to look at the excited Peterson.
Without answering her, he got out of the car, walked over to the passenger side, and extended his hand to her.
"Just pretend that our date went swimmingly, and let's see if he comes out."
In the face of the mission, he couldn't prioritize women. It was something Mr. Penrod had always taught them since they were young, and Caleb kept it firmly in mind.
"No need to test him anymore, I admit defeat."
Hearing this, Peterson let go of Katharine and looked at her sympathetically.
Peterson stepped back, looking at the Spencer family's front door.
"Go in, I'll handle things with your father."
Katharine thanked Peterson and asked where he would be staying tonight, considering he had come specifically to see her.
"I will return to my country overnight to meet the next alliance partner," Peterson replied.
Katharine smiled and said, "Well, I wish you success."
Peterson raised an eyebrow at Katharine, then turned and got into his car.
Katharine watched the car drive away before slowly walking towards her home.
Just as she was about to push open the door, she stopped in her tracks, as if waiting for Caleb to come over.
However, she waited for a long time, but there was no sign of him. Katharine gave up completely.
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