Chapter 213

Howard Lowell quickly agreed. "Yes, we came specifically to see her." He then focused on his meal, deliberately avoiding further conversation, though his expression was grim.

Adrian Sinclair's gaze turned cold. He did not respond.

The dinner concluded in a tense atmosphere. The two of them escorted the elders to their hotel.

Anna Ross held her mother's arm tightly, her eyes slightly red. "Mom, I don't want to be apart from you."

She desperately wanted her mother to live with her, but Sophia Roscente was still in the apartment. There simply wasn't enough space.

"Silly child, Mom is right here in New York now. You can see me whenever you want." Vivian Lowell gently stroked her daughter's hair, her gaze soft and tender.

"But..." Anna still worried about her mother staying with Howard Lowell.

Adrian Sinclair noticed her rare display of vulnerability. A faint smile flickered in his eyes. "Cousin, it's getting late. They've had a long journey and should rest early."

The term of address made her pause. He hadn't called her that since they arrived in New York.

Vivian Lowell soothingly agreed. "Adrian is right. You should head back first. I'll contact you after I've unpacked."

Anna reluctantly let go. She had just moved to Adrian's side when Howard, who had been silent, suddenly spoke. "Anna, come here for a moment. Your father has something to say."

She closed her eyes, suppressing the disgust in her heart. Her gaze swept over her busy mother. Ultimately, she turned and walked back.

Adrian's brow furrowed instantly.

Howard feigned sudden realization and smiled. "Adrian, if you have matters to attend to, please go ahead."

Young people were still too inexperienced. What could they really do, no matter how sharp-tongued?

Adrian slowly turned the jade ring on his finger. He responded calmly, "Then I shall take my leave."

As he turned, his gaze lingered on her for a brief moment. The door closed softly behind him.

Once Adrian left, Howard immediately dropped his fake smile. He slumped onto the sofa, his voice cold. "What's the progress with Adrian Sinclair recently? Any changes regarding the engagement with the Valentine family's daughter?"

She remained standing, coldly staring at his balding head. "There is no possibility between us. I don't have the ability to win him over."

"As for the engagement, there's no news at all. It seems nothing is finalized yet."

The moment she finished speaking, he slammed the table angrily. "Useless! Can't even secure a man. What a waste of that pretty face!"

He had thought it was already settled. It seemed he had overestimated her.

The noise startled Vivian. She rushed to her daughter's side, fearing her husband might become violent.

Pulling her daughter to sit down, she softly urged, "Howard, let's talk properly. There's no need for anger."

Anna showed no fear. If her mother weren't under his control, she would never tolerate this!

Howard rubbed his temples and issued a sharp order. "No matter what, you must secure him. Ruin the Valentine family's engagement!"

Anna was about to retort when her mother subtly pressed her hand, shaking her head slightly.

They must not provoke him.