As the wife of a wealthy heir, Seren was often reminded that painting, music, and literature were mere diversions—her primary duty lay in supporting her husband and raising his children.
She'd assumed Shirley thought the same.
Of course, in front of Old Mr. Rutledge, Shirley never said anything. But when it was just the two of them, Shirley would drop subtle hints, almost as if offering advice, just like Diana Yates always did.
But this time, Shirley had simply said, "Keep at it. Do what you love."
Seren wasn't close with Shirley, and she rarely interacted with people in general. She wasn't sure how to respond. If she just replied "Okay," it seemed perfunctory; if she said nothing, that felt impolite.
Instinctively, she picked up her phone and turned to Lennon for help. "Your mom sent me this. What do you think I should say?"
Lennon glanced at the message, completely unfazed. "Say whatever you want."
Seren hesitated, feeling no closer to a solution. Lennon's words weren't really helpful.
As she hovered over the reply box, still unsure, Lennon gently took the phone from her hand. He snapped a quick photo of their marriage certificate and sent it to Shirley, then closed the chat and handed the phone back.
"If you have something to say, say it. If not, it's fine," he said.
Seren looked at him, uncertain. "Is that really okay?"
Lennon ruffled her hair, his touch gentle and affectionate. "Of course. In this house, you don't have to tiptoe around anyone."
Seren froze, her mind drifting. She used to be proud and aloof, the kind of person who wouldn't bother replying to messages—even with family, it was no big deal.


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