Chapter 186 Helping a Friend
With their ample manpower, it didn’t take long for them to transport all the items designated for Hera by shuttling between floors. Amy also engaged in a discreet conversation with Cindy to arrange for a secluded coop behind the Jade Dragon Building where they could house chickens and ducks without drawing attention. Amy planned to care for the livestock temporarily, given their surplus of ingredients so they don’t lack these ingredients. Cindy went a step further and enlisted the expertise of a landscaper, architect, and engineer to design a beautiful duck house with a small pond and chicken coop exclusively for Hera’s use behind the building.
Anticipating that Hera might cherish the gift as a keepsake from the villagers and her time in the village, Cindy wasted no time in taking action. She decided to delay informing Hera until after their guests had departed, or perhaps even until the following day as a surprise.
After everyone lent a hand in assisting Hera with her gifts, they gradually dispersed, including the male leads, who departed content with both the dinner and the events that transpired in Hera’s penthouse. Before Bry and his family took their leave, Hera sought a moment alone with Bry’s father.
"Uncle, I have a friend who is currently abroad, and her place is vacant. Coincidentally, the caretaker of her house is away, attending to her newborn granddaughter, and leaving the property unattended. My friend is due to return in two weeks, but the caretaker won’t be back by then. After discussing it with my friend, considering your extended stay in the city for your brother’s consultation and surgery, I proposed the idea of letting you stay in her house." Hera provided a thorough explanation, aiming to alleviate any concerns Bry’s father might have about her proposal.
Hera had stepped out earlier to make a call to Cindy, making arrangements for Bry’s family’s accommodation. Understanding that they were far from home and facing the challenge of finding a place to stay while caring for Bry’s uncle during their city visit, Hera wanted to spare them the stress and inconvenience. Her aim was to ensure they could enjoy a relaxing time in the city. This gesture was her way of reciprocating the warmth and hospitality she had experienced in their village.
Hera recognized that simply offering the place without any conditions might lead Bry’s father to refuse out of concern for imposing on her kindness or potentially taking advantage of her. Therefore, she took care to devise a scenario where they could reciprocate the gesture by ensuring the property remained clean and tidy during their stay. This thoughtful approach aimed to address any reservations they might have had about accepting her offer.
As Hera anticipated, Bry’s father expressed hesitancy. "Isn’t your friend concerned about inviting strangers into her home? What if they turn out to be malicious and steal from her?"
Hera chuckled at his concerns, noting how he even entertained the thought of accusing himself of greed or thievery to emphasize his point. "Don’t worry, Uncle. My friend’s place is sparsely furnished with only the essentials. It’s hardly lived in by her as she’s often out and about, preferring minimal hassle. Plus, it’s not a high-end property, so there’s no need to fret about causing any damage. You’re welcome to use all the amenities provided, including bedding and appliances, and simply tidy up after yourselves."
Pausing briefly, Hera continued, "She also mentioned that you’re free to use any ingredients in the refrigerator as you please, without the need for replacements. A designated person restocks and throws the supplies daily, and the caretaker usually takes home any leftovers since my friend prefers fresh ingredients."
Hera made a point to include the last detail, considering Bry’s father’s farming upbringing, where wasting food was frowned upon and seen as sacrilegious. When he learned that the provisions would spoil otherwise, he readily agreed to make use of them. Hera couldn’t help but notice his reaction, and inwardly, she smiled with satisfaction, her eyes betraying a subtle, discreet smile.
"Uncle, could you help take care of my friend’s house?" Hera asked once more, injecting a hint of pleading into her voice, underscoring the favor she was requesting.