Later that evening, inside a private dining room at an upscale restaurant.
Callahan sat across from her. His suit jacket was draped over the chair, and his sleeves were rolled up, revealing his forearms. He took a sip of water, his gaze fixed on Leilani with a soft smile.
“So, the herb situation is resolved?” he asked.
Leilani had mentioned her trip to the countryside earlier, so the topic came up naturally. She nodded, recounting the events of the day with a relaxed demeanor.
“I’ve signed a contract with the village,” she explained. “I agreed to pay ten percent over the wholesale market rate, but the quality requirements are strict. No fakes, no chemicals. If I catch them cutting corners, they owe me five times the value in penalties.”
Ten percent above market was a significant amount of money, but Callahan understood Leilani’s priorities. She cared about the integrity of her medicine far more than profit margins. If the ingredients were pure, she could create treatments that were priceless. He didn’t press the financial details further.
After dinner, Callahan set down his napkin and looked at her earnestly. “By the way, my grandpa has been asking about you constantly. He wants to see you.”
He paused, gauging her reaction. “Do you have time tonight? I was planning to stop by the family estate to pay my respects since I just got back. You could come with me.”
Leilani blinked. “Right now?”
“It’s routine for me to visit the family estate after a trip,” Callahan said. “And since I’m heading there anyway, it makes sense. I can drive you home afterward.”
Leilani considered it. Since she and Callahan had made their relationship official, his grandfather, Dante Langley, had been incredibly supportive. He frequently sent her rare medicinal herbs, tonics, and even ancient medical texts. When she had been targeted by scandals online, Dante had stood up for her without hesitation. She owed the old man a visit.
Leilani smiled and offered the gift box she was holding. “This is just a small token of my appreciation.”
Dante took the box and opened it to reveal a vintage fountain pen set with artisanal ink. It was understated but clearly chosen with taste. His eyes brightened, though he feigned sternness. “You silly girl, just coming here is enough. Why bring gifts? You’re making us feel like strangers!”
Letty received a hand-embroidered silk scarf, soft to the touch and exquisitely patterned. She stroked the fabric, clearly charmed. “Exactly. We’re family. There’s no need to be so formal.”
Despite their words, their smiles betrayed how pleased they were. Leilani’s thoughtfulness had clearly touched them.
Callahan stood to the side, watching his mother and grandfather fuss over Leilani while completely ignoring him. He rubbed his temple, suppressing a chuckle.

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