Love at First Novel by Gu Lingfei

The older generation of the Farrell family did accept the gifts and benefits sent by the three brothers. They felt slighted by Clarissa in the past, so taking what the brothers offered felt like compensation-something they were owed. However, as for siding with the brothers and helping them undermine Liberty's rise to power, they had no intention of doing so.

What could the three brothers do about it without evidence? The gifts were framed as simple New Year offerings from the younger generation to their elders-perfectly normal and customary. Holden, upon hearing his sons' complaints, smacked one of them lightly on the arm and let loose his frustration.

"How many times have I told you this?" he snapped, his tone heavy with exasperation. "But no, you won't listen! It's like my words go in one ear and out the other. Let me remind you- yes, you and Kathryn are siblings, but your last name is Janzen, not Farrell. "The Farrell family has upheld their clan rules for over a century, and they're not about to change them for you. If change were possible, it would've happened long ago. Do you really think it's your turn now? Those elders belong to the Farrell family; of course, their loyalty lies there. To them, you're outsiders. You're Janzens. Why would they side with you against Liberty?"

Holden's words grew sharper as he continued.

"They won't even stand by Kathryn anymore, and she's their blood. And you think bribing them will change that? Dream on! If they were to support anyone from your mother's descendants, they'd choose Kathryn over you in a heartbeat. At least Kathryn commands respect -she has power. The major families in Wiltspoon show her courtesy.

"But you? If it were up to you, those same families would band together to crush the Farrell family into dust."

his breath, the weight

to be," he added, his voice quieter but no less firm. "They're barely clinging to their position among Jensburg's elite. How powerful do you think they really are

At his age, with declining health and mounting stress, Holden could feel his strength waning. He'd stepped back from Jensburg's chaos for his

of water to steady himself. "I can't be

left him with nothing but scars-both physical and emotional. His wife, before her death, had nearly dragged him down with her. His

killed," Holden thought grimly. "If Liberty doesn't finish

off first."

this would be his fate, he wouldn't have married

scolding his sons. His relentless words silenced