Chapter 861
Caitlin was likely the first person in history to refuse a royal title. And she had done so without a moment’s hesitation.
How could anyone in the world not want a peerage? The Vance family had betrayed their own country just for a foothold in Valerium. This was a title, a noble rank, handed to her on a silver platter.
Sally’s first reaction was that she must have misheard. She had to have.
So, she asked again.
Caitlin met Sally’s gaze. “That’s right, you heard me correctly. I don’t need a title. I just want justice for my mother p>
Thinking Caitlin might have doubts, Sally clarified swiftly, “Miss Gonzales, let me assure you, granting you a title and securing justice for Mrs. Gonzales go hand in hand. In fact, I’ve already had Diana and Rosemary confined to the royal detention center. They await your word p>
She continued, “Miss Gonzales, if you are willing, I can arrange the ennoblement ceremony at any time p>
“I understand your meaning,” Caitlin replied, looking at Sally, “and I appreciate your generosity. But I am not worthy of such an honor p>
Caitlin’s refusal was always direct and unwavering.
Sally was stunned once more. She couldn’t fathom that someone in this world could be so indifferent to fame and fortune. Countless people in Valerium would fight tooth and nail just to be associated with the nobility, yet here was Caitlin… Sally moistened her lips, trying to compose herself. “May I ask why p>
Caitlin smiled faintly. “Because compared to the name Windsor, I prefer my current surname and my current name. And I love my country very much. In my view, a person’s stature and achievements shouldn’t be measured by their last name p>
Whatever she was called, whatever her name was, her accomplishments stood for themselves.
Caitlin’s response left Sally’s mind reeling. She could hardly believe those words came from a young woman in her early twenties. She was truly extraordinary.
So extraordinary that one couldn’t help but be drawn to her.
After a long moment, Sally finally regained her composure. “Very well, Miss Gonzales. I respect your wishes. However, I will give you a standing offer. If you ever change your mind, you can come to me in Valerium at any time, and I will grant you the title p>
“Thank you,” Caitlin said with a smile. “I should be going now p>
“Of course,” Sally nodded. “Lorna, please escort Miss Gonzales back p>
Lorna was Sally’s personal guard and driver, a position that meant she usually only transported the Queen herself. It was a clear sign of how highly Sally regarded Caitlin.
“Yes, Your Majesty p>
Having been by Sally’s side for years,
Lorna had met all sorts of people,
but never someone like Caitlin. She had assumed all people from Eldermere were like the
Vances greedy and willing to sell
anything for personal gain. But
Caitlin, with her integrity and
passion, was a revelation.
It was a refreshing change that shattered her old prejudices.
Lorna approached Caitlin and bowed respectfully. “Miss Gonzales, this way, please p>
Caitlin followed her.
By the time Caitlin arrived back at the hotel, it was already eleven at night. She
had assumed Celeste and Carey would be asleep.
But when she opened the door, she found both of them waiting up for her. “Freya p>
“Catie p>
Carey rushed forward and hugged Caitlin tightly. “Freya, I haven’t heard from you all day. I was so worried p>
Caitlin smiled. “It’s okay, Mom. Didn’t we have a video call earlier this evening p>
Celeste chimed in, “Catie, are you hungry? After our call, Carey and went to a nearby supermarket and
bought your favorite spicy and
Sour
noodle soup. If you’re hungry cart
go make it for you p>
to
Celeste’s words were perfectly timed; Caitlin suddenly felt her stomach grumble. “That would be great, March. Thank you p>
“It’s just noodles, it’s no trouble at all. We can all eat together p>
With that, Celeste headed to the kitchen to cook, with Caitlin and Carey helping
out. Soon, three bowls of savory noodle soup were ready.
While Celeste wasn’t a master chef, she was an expert at making instant noodles. The soup was perfectly
jet
and flavorful, so spicy delicious you. wanted to savor every last drop. Even Carey, who usually preferred milder food, ate a hearty portion.
The next day arrived quickly. Seven o’clock in the morning.