Chapter 178

At the Ford residence, Mrs. Ford Sr. was leisurely sipping her afternoon tea when the butler knocked and entered.

"James has returned, Madam."

Mrs. Ford Sr. casually responded with a "Hmm" and, seeing the butler lingering, lazily raised an eyelid. "Is there something else?"

The butler hesitated, then said, "James has brought Miss Xena."

Mrs. Ford Sr. looked surprised and sneered, "I thought he would heed my warning, but it seems he's gone ahead and brought her home anyway."

Unable to fathom Mrs. Ford Sr.'s thoughts, the butler asked, "Shall I arrange for them to meet you?"

"No need. Just send them away, and remind James not to forget what I've said."

The butler respectfully nodded and left the room.

Downstairs, James ushered Xena to sit on the sofa in the living room, anxiously awaiting Mrs. Ford Sr.'s appearance. Though he had assured Xena of his sincerity, he had no confidence in his heart.

Not long ago, Mrs. Ford Sr. had threatened him, saying if he insisted on marrying Xen