Chapter 670

Glimmering Tower was one of the tallest buildings in the capital. From its highest point, visitors could gaze down at the southern river port and enjoy a breathtaking view of much of the city's beauty. The entire structure was imposing and magnificent, exuding extraordinary luxury.

However, securing a seat in the top-floor private room didn't come cheap. Coffee alone cost five silver coins, while a simple meal could easily cost dozens, and more elaborate dishes could cost hundreds or even thousands.

The owner of Glimmering Tower remained largely unknown. Everyone knew its patrons were wealthy nobles, and the tower made a fortune daily. Those who knew the owner kept it secret; few in the capital maintained connections with that person in Meadow Ridge.

Violet and Opal arrived first. Violet, skilled at charming others, now referred to Opal as her sister-in-law, a title Opal delighted in.

When they reached Glimmering Tower, Darin hadn't arrived. Violet, her face glowing with satisfaction, took in the opulence. "When I formalize my relationship with Alice," she declared, "I'll host dozens of tables here and treat everyone to a feast."

Opal chuckled. "How much would that cost? It'd be more practical to host a banquet at home. Everyone in the neighborhood knows I'm skilled at organizing events. Are you planning to deny me the chance to show off my skills?"

Violet laughed. "That sounds wonderful, but I worry you might tire yourself out, and Timothy would blame me."

Opal's smile faded. A wave of longing washed over her. "I can barely remember what he looks like now. I wonder when he can return to the capital. It's been a long time since the fighting ended."

Violet comforted her. "We can't let our guard down. Things are still chaotic, and it's risky without strong troops stationed there. Timothy's been promoted, so he should be able to return soon."

"It's hard to balance loyalty and devotion to family," Opal sighed. "If it weren't for our family in the capital, I would have considered taking the children and joining him."

Violet pulled Opal into a seat in the private room. "There's no need for that. Once things settle down, he'll be able to come back."

As they spoke, the coffee sommelier entered with Darin, followed by a maid. Opal's maid waited outside; Tamara sat at a small table outside, enjoying the coffee provided for the private room. The room's door remained open, making everything visible and audible.

Darin wore a light yellow top and a white embroidered pleated skirt. Tiny pearls adorned her ears, and a delicate blue hairpin with droplets decorated her hair. The accessories complemented her elegant and serene appearance.

She curtsied politely. "Hello, Madam Opal, Ms. Spence."

The women rose. "Hello, Ms. Sanford. Please have a seat." Darin urged, "Ladies, please take your seats."

Opal smiled. "We're not in a formal setting; no need for formalities. Just sit down."

Violet, ever bold, plopped down first, followed by the others.

The coffee sommelier served them, pouring a cup for each and gesturing before stepping back.

Violet waved him off. "You can go now. We just want to chat."

"Of course. I'll be outside. If you need anything, just call."

"Bring out some sweet snacks, maybe eight or ten kinds," Violet said, remembering Jacob's description of Jaina's fondness for sweets. "But tastes change as one grows up."

The coffee sommelier nodded and left. Violet turned to Darin, pulling out the small rabbit figurine Jacob had given her. Placing it on the table, she asked casually, "Ms. Sanford, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?"

Darin glanced at the rabbit before looking away, smiling softly. "Not much. I mostly do some embroidery."

"Your embroidery must be exceptional, then. I admire that!" Violet remarked, tracing the rabbit's broken ear.

Darin's gaze returned to Violet's hand, studying it before regaining her composure. "It's nothing exceptional, really. Just something I do for fun."