Laila recognized the mention of a man beyond that line. It was a statement that applied to her as well, living on the same floor as stealth, but she felt no discomfort or self-pity.

His words resonated with a justified confidence, not mere showmanship. The man's demeanor exuded tranquility, and his sagacity and composure ironically diluted Laila's unease. Though she didn't know who this man was or why he had helped her, it was a luxury concern for her current weary self. Encountering a powerful man and overcoming a crisis was undoubtedly a stroke of luck.

The man bent down and picked up his fallen coat. With both hands, he held it and enveloped her body, spreading it wide.

"You seem quite injured. We can talk about it in detail later. For now, take a rest. It will take a while to reach our destination."

His tone was gentle, yet it carried weight. Though Laila had many questions, she refrained from asking further. Besides being influenced by the man's energy, above all, she was utterly exhausted, just as his words suggested.

Laila melted into the cool-scented coat. Amidst her resurfacing haze of consciousness, she inquired.

"Who are you?"

"I am Cain Vanderbilt. And you?"

He asked with a polite smile that seemed to demand a prompt response. The glimpse of his gleaming, orderly teeth was quite captivating.

"I am..."

Laila hesitated and trailed off. She was apprehensive about revealing herself honestly to someone she barely knew. The conflict quickly dissipated. After all, what would be the point of concealing anything from the person she would no longer see and had already received help from?

"I am Laila Dunst."

"Laila Dunst.."

Laila thought her name, originating from another person's mouth, sounded splendid for the first time in her life.

***

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There had been tales of unimaginably wealthy individuals residing in the northern region of the capital. It was a distant and inconceivable notion for her, so she paid no attention to it. However, now that she had witnessed the reality of it, Laila was completely astounded.

Cain Vanderbilt was a far more tremendous magnate than she had ever imagined. As she entered his house, she was greeted by a grand hall supported by colossal pillars and adorned with exquisite marble flooring. Expensive-looking carpets and tapestries, ornate furniture, and decorations caught Laila's eyes as she was overwhelmed by the sight. How much wealth must one possess to live in such a house?

"Have you arrived, sir?"

The male and female servants who had been waiting for him politely bowed their heads. Cain Vanderbilt acknowledged their greetings with a stern gaze.

"Prepare hot water for the lady to bathe. Also, provide her with suitable attire."

"Oh, no. I'm fine..."

Bathing in an unfamiliar place was an uncomfortable endeavor. Laila's intention to decline was halted when she noticed the expressions of those standing nearby.

Someone grimaced, another held their breath, and one person couldn't help but cover their nose.

It was only then that Laila realized there was a distinct fishy odor emanating from herself. A sudden flush of embarrassment engulfed her. She had bathed, but somehow the fishy smell had permeated her body. The stench of poverty, ingrained like an inherent trait, embarrassingly revealed itself.

"Well then, if you'll excuse me."

In that moment of exposing her inferiority, Laila choose silence over needless stubbornness. Letting go of her pride brought her a newfound tranquility. What did it matter if she were labeled as shameless and audacious? She would repay Cain's kindness at a later time.

"Feeling weary, let's cleanse ourselves and rest today. We shall engage in conversation tomorrow morning," said Kane.

In response to Cain's words, she nodded silently.

"This way," Cain motioned.

As Laila followed the young maid, she felt Cain's unwavering gaze upon her. Her face blushed slightly, a scent as potent as it would be within the confined space of a carriage, even more so in this expansive area. Nevertheless, he showed no indication of his awareness. That fact was both comforting and embarrassing.

After Laila disappeared, Cain handed over his coat to the maid.

"Inhale," the maid inadvertently grimaced, realizing her slip-up, and cautiously gauged Cain's reaction. Upon meeting his unflinching, icy eyes, she flinched in surprise and lowered her head. She had carried an air of disdain, subtly ignoring the woman's presence due to her shabby appearance, but seeing the master's response made her realize her misjudgment.

"I-I will quickly have it laundered and returned," she stammered.

"No need," Cain replied coldly, turning away and changing his steps.

What could it be?

The maid looked bewildered, her head cocked in confusion.