Chapter 79: Grace Cooper Watched Adrian Stone's Retreating Figure and Sighed Softly

Grace Cooper watched Adrian Stone's retreating figure and sighed softly. "Elena, you're a lucky girl. Instructor Stone seems like a decent man—he won't let you down." She took Elena's hand and spoke earnestly, "Listen, if you ever need money for school, just tell me. Your brother and I will manage, no matter how tight things get. But remember this—never accept money from Adrian. A woman must never owe a man favors, or you'll lose respect in his family."

Elena's eyes grew warm. Her sister always put her first.

"Don't worry, Grace," she said, squeezing Grace's calloused hand. "The university provides grants, and I can work part-time. You shouldn't skimp on food—the kids need proper meals." She flashed a bright smile. "Our best days are still ahead."

"Yes, the best days are coming!" Grace nodded repeatedly.

Nearby, William Cooper lowered his head silently, lost in thought.

At dinner, Grace served steaming porridge, fresh steamed buns, and a pot of stew—a rare feast for their household, where pickles with porridge was the usual fare.

Elena felt a pang of guilt. She hadn't meant to burden her sister. This visit had resolved Grace's worries and cured her brother-in-law's ailment, repaying their years of kindness. She planned to leave tomorrow—but not before settling one final matter. Derek Harlan's free ride was about to end.

Memories of Derek's past cruelty flickered in Elena's eyes. She couldn't take his life in this lawful society, but she wouldn't let him roam free either. Derek relied entirely on his childless uncle's support. Cut off that lifeline, and...

Footsteps interrupted her thoughts. Richard Adams and Factory Manager Victor Green arrived with their wives, arms laden with gifts—milk powder, malted drinks, canned food, chocolates—piling the table high. Before leaving, they pressed a thick envelope into her hands.

Despite her protests, Elena had to accept. Richard's demeanor had shifted markedly since morning—after verifying her medical skills with Adrian and hearing of David Moore's recovery, they now regarded her as a hidden master.

Victor, ever shrewd, promoted Grace to workshop supervisor the next day, bypassing protocol. His wife Fiona began visiting Grace constantly, acting like sisters. Workers whispered about Grace's sudden connection to the factory elite.

Only Victor knew the truth: befriending Grace meant securing access to Elena—a lifeline for future ailments.