Noticing the young master deep in thought, Juliane tried to persuade him. "Young master, should we not lend them our assistance?" She believed that with Amon's influence and resources, he could easily resolve the issue.
But Amon shook his head, firm with his decision. "Ms. Johara, we have already given them copper coins. Our part is done. Besides, getting involved in this matter could jeopardize my trading business. As you know, all traders and business operations go through the government officials. I cannot afford to take that risk."
"But sire-" Juliane said, her tone unwavering.
"No, Ms. Johara," Amon snapped, cutting her off before she could say more.. "When I say no, you should be wise enough to accept it. Let's go now."
Juliane shook her head. "Mister, I have to at least try to get her out of prison-"
"Enough, Ms. Johara! Don't give them false hope. What can a mere assistant like you accomplish?" Disappointment masked his true concern for Juliane. Gripping her arm tightly, he forcibly pulled her along, not giving her a chance to resist.
As Amon dragged her away, Juliane stole a final glance at the boy and his blind uncle. Her heart ached for their plight, but Amon was right. What could she, a mere assistant, do to help them? She lacked the influence and resources to overturn the situation. Reluctantly, she acknowledged her dependency on Amon, bound by the clause of their contract. Her currently comfortable life is in his hands.
Hiring the same vegetable merchant once again, Amon and Juliane climbed back into the automobile and headed back to the Golden Mansion. The atmosphere during the journey was awkward and heavy with tension, and the only sound that filled the air was the hum of the engine.
Amon walked ahead, and Juliane followed silently behind him. As Amon reached his room, Juliane tugged gently at his sleeve.
"Mister, I... I apologize for my actions," Juliane spoke softly with regret in her tone . "I understand now why I was wrong."
Amon's expression softened slightly, pleased that his assistant possessed the humility to recognize her faults. A fleeting smile touched his lips, but it quickly faded when his gaze met Juliane's eyes. "Good. It's important for you to broaden your perspective on such matters. Practice not being narrow-minded, and look at the bigger picture, Ms. Johara."
Juliane nodded in response and watched as Amon closed his door. She let out a sigh, feeling the weight of the dramatic day weighing upon her. Weary, she made her way to her own bedroom, finally seeking rest.
Meanwhile, Amon removed his conical hat and wiped the brown streaks from his face before proceeding to take a warm bath, soothing the fatigue from his body. The water cascaded over his well-defined physique, accentuating his toned muscles and six-pack abs. His dirty hair returned into its usual golden hue.
After his refreshing bath, he made his way to his study. With his thoughts still lingering with the visit he and Juliane had earlier, he picked up the telephone and dialed a familiar number.
"Mr. Merritt, I apologize for calling you at this late hour, but I need you to investigate certain individuals," Amon spoke with seriousness. "Also, I would like to arrange a meeting with you and your brother from the newspaper company. Let's meet tomorrow at our usual meeting place, 10 in the evening."
…
The following day, Juliane received a message instructing her to spend the day with her sister at Grythwill City Hospital. She was puzzled by the request, as she was asked to return a day later for reasons unknown. Uncertainty lingered in her mind—was Amon upset about what had transpired in Riverton Village? Would she be fired?
No, that couldn't be the case. Juliane had already apologized for her actions, and she hoped that Amon would understand. Perhaps he simply wanted some time alone or had pressing matters that didn't require her assistance. Regardless, Juliane decided to focus on spending quality time with her sister. It was a relief that her sister no longer needed the oxygen mask, allowing them to engage in their usual lively conversations.
"Sis, where did you get this adorable stuffed toy?" Adelfa asked, referring to a toy that resembled a potato.
"Mr. Midas gave it to me," Juliane replied.
"Is he your… lover?" Adelfa teased, her eyes gleaming with curiosity.
"Adelfa, you're too young to be thinking about that!" Juliane's face turned as red as a tomato. "And no, he's not my lover. He's just my boss, Adelfa."
"What a kind boss you have, giving you lots of stuff!" she beamed with a smile.
"Well, my boss is also some kind of a…friend, I guess," the potato lady forced a laugh, and wanting to change the topic, she uttered, "By the way, I haven't seen mother around."
"She said she'll be back tomorrow because you're here to take care of me."
Juliane felt a slight sense of relief knowing that she wouldn't have to spend time with her mother, Holly. She didn't want to argue with her about selling the farm.
The day continued peacefully for Juliane, while Amon anxiously awaited the investigator's report. At 10 in the evening, Amon left the Golden Mansion and made his way to the pub he owned. He had reserved a private room where he met with Mr. Joerdan Merritt - his trusted private investigator, and Jojo - Joerdan's brother who worked as a journalist for Panther Newspaper which was the most renowned newspaper company in the Eudaemora Region.
The meeting lasted for two hours, shrouded in secrecy. No one knew the nature of their discussion, and as they left the pub, not a soul witnessed their departure. As usual, the pub employees were generously compensated to ensure the confidentiality of their meeting.