EPISODE 8

Ethan 's expression remained composed, but Hayle could tell he already suspected the land's true potential. He had likely figured out its future value but chose to let Frederick have it as a gesture of goodwill. That was just like Ethan —always strategic, even in his generosity.

Hayle shrugged off the conversation. "I just gave him a compliment. You're overthinking it," she said, dismissing the topic with a casual tone. Ethan 's brow furrowed as he considered her words. He realized he was probably reading too much into it; how could Hayle possibly have the foresight to predict the land's value? He decided to drop it.

"You're probably right," he murmured, then turned his attention back to Morgan , leading her away to mingle with other guests. As they walked off, Morgan briefly glanced back at Hayle, her expression carefully neutral, but Hayle caught the hint of a smug smile hidden in her eyes.

Hayle finished her glass of champagne, the bubbles doing little to lift her spirits. To