As soon as Mila stepped inside, she caught a faint scent of tea lingering in the air.
She removed her blindfold.
Her eyes took in the sight of a room steeped in old-world charm, reminiscent of a classic drawing room. A graceful woman with her hair elegantly pinned up approached to help Mila out of her winter coat and brought a basin filled with warm water.
Mila dipped her hands in to cleanse them, and after a quick inspection by the woman, she was led further into the house.
The next room was similarly styled, exuding a refined elegance.
Once seated, someone brought over a tray of refreshments. The entire process was carried out in silence, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
The formality of the place reminded Mila of her grandfather Lysander’s home, where traditions were held in high regard. She was used to such environments, though they always left her a bit uneasy, a little suffocated.
After what seemed like half an hour, she heard measured footsteps approaching. The wooden door slid open, and in walked a tall, poised gentleman with a charming smile.
He nodded at her, Miss Lillian?
In the professional circle, Mila went by the name Lillian, so she nodded back politely, And you are, sir?
Up to this point, their interactions had been limited to messages on her phone. This was her first meeting with the generous client in person.
Based on the details she had received, she knew he had a well-maintained physique.
Still, she hadn’t anticipated such a strikingly handsome appearance. His elegance was a stark contrast to her grandfather Lysander’s more rugged and charismatic allure.
The man smiled distantly, opting not to introduce himself, indicating he preferred to keep his identity private.
Mila wasn’t bothered.
She had encountered clients who didn’t wish to disclose their identities; it never impeded their work together.
However, something about his face struck a familiar chord with her.
Having spent considerable time around the influential circles of Montgomery Holdings, Mila kept her tone composed and friendly, You have an excellent physique, sir. It seems the waistline could use a slight adjustment.
Her hand moved steadily over the suit’s waist, betraying no sign of her unease.
From a vantage point she couldn’t see, the man’s eyes darkened slightly as they rested on her hair, though his smile remained gentle.
Mila proceeded with minor alterations at a measured pace.
Fortunately, this client was not only generous but also accommodating, at least regarding the attire, offering no complaints.
Finally, an elderly butler came to settle the remaining balance.
Besides being a piece of exquisite craftsmanship, the gown was adorned with precious stones and embroidered with gold and silver threads. The final payment came to one hundred and eighty thousand, fifteen thousand more than initially agreed upon.
When Mila inquired, the butler simply said, The gentleman is very pleased. Consider it a token of gratitude, and perhaps there will be future collaborations.