Edward just shrugged, sounding totally relaxed. “Once a family’s built its empire, it’s not about conquering anymore–it’s about holding onto what you’ve got. Mr. Holcomb and Mr. Hallman are busy because they’re still hustling, still fighting for their place. Me? I made a rule for myself: work six hours a day, and the rest of the time? That’s all mine.”

I let out a little “oh,” realizing even the rich have their own pecking order.

Seeing I was still a bit lost, Edward brushed a windblown strand from my face and spoke softly, “Sometimes, I think about starting a family again. Maybe it’s just in a man’s nature to want that.”

“Is that so? I’m not really into that idea,” I said, looking down and twisting my fingers together. “Maybe I just see things differently. Right now, I want freedom, and I want to try out different ways of living.”

“Yeah, if there’s ever anything you want or wish for, just tell me. I’ll make it happen for you, anytime,” Edward said, completely straightforward.

I stared at him for a moment, a little stunned.

Edward’s breath hitched a little, maybe because the last rays of sunset were painting my face, or maybe because he saw something new in my eyes–a different kind of scenery just for him.

He lowered his voice, sounding a bit down. “So… is there someone else you want by your side for all this? Someone else you’re counting on?”

“No,” I answered quietly.

That made Edward smile again. “Then… can I be that person?”

“If you’re willing, of course you can,” I said. I’d have to be crazy to turn down a man who could show me the world.

When we arrived, it was obvious Edward had everything arranged in advance. As soon as we got out of the car, we were ushered into an elegant private wine lounge, where we sampled gourmet dishes paired with fine, expensive red wine.

But we only tasted a little before Edward grinned at me and said, “Don’t fill up just yet–there’s an even better dinner waiting for us tonight.”

I immediately set aside my food and followed him to the pool.

Across from the pool, a huge mountain loomed in the darkness, like a giant standing watch–absolutely breathtaking.

The glass windows kept out the chill, making it warm and comfortable inside.

Staring at the crystal-clear pool, I suddenly realized–wait, I didn’t even bring a swimsuit.

So I turned to Edward and asked, “Did you happen to bring one for me?”

Edward just laughed. “Take a look in that bag over there.”

I walked over, opened it up, and–surprise–there were three swimsuits inside, each with its own vibe.

“Wow, you really came prepared. Was this all part of your master plan to get me here?” I shot him a playful look, raising an eyebrow.

Edward seemed a bit shy under my gaze. He sat down next to me and said, “When it comes to you, I always make sure everything’s ready ahead of time.”

“Why?” I asked. I’d noticed he always liked to plan ahead for everything.

Edward’s eyes fixed on me, deep and serious. “I don’t know. I just feel like if I’m always prepared, maybe you won’t leave me so easily.”

I got it–it was just his way of showing he’s insecure.

“Does it make you feel pressured?” Edward asked, reading my mood with that sharp intuition of his.

“Not at all. Having someone treat me with so much care just makes me happy,” I replied softly. How could I ever bring myself to trample on his sincerity? All I could do was accept it, honestly and wholeheartedly.

Edward let out a quiet sigh of relief. “Alright, how about I give you a swimming lesson next?”

“Are we the only ones here?” I asked.

Edward smiled. “Tonight, this whole estate is ours. I brought some bodyguards and staff with me–they came early this morning to get everything ready.”

I was stunned. So this is what it’s like for the rich to have fun–they need to clear the place out ahead of time.

Money really could buy you time and space. That really hit me, making me want to hustle even harder for my own fortune someday.

The pool was massive, and with those mountain views right outside the window, the whole vibe was so chill you couldn’t help but relax and let your guard down.

I chose a beige two-piece swimsuit.

When I came out after changing, Edward had just finished a lap and was sitting by the pool in his black swim trunks, water still dripping from him. He turned to look at me and for a moment, he just stared, completely mesmerized.