Chapter 21
Matthew had already made up his mind to leave.
Martin felt awkward. He forced a smile. "Why don't you come inside?"
Matthew was unfazed. Martin's earlier harshness couldn't be brushed off so easily. "Forget it. I'm not from Khoitwood. I'll just head back to my rural village," he said. Martin couldn't afford to let Matthew leave. He didn't know what Fred had in mind with this marriage arrangement, but it definitely had to be important. Swallowing his pride, Martin blushed and said, "Matthew, I misspoke earlier. Whether or not you're from Khoitwood doesn't matter. I wasn't referring to you. "I see that you carry yourself well and have great manners. I believe you're the perfect match for my daughter. You and Rachel are a match made in heaven." Despite this, Matthew still had some reservations.
Rachel ran up to Matthew with a bright smile and took his arm. She then led him toward the house. "Matthew, come on, let's go in."
Martin was taken aback. Rachel was usually reserved and distant, yet she was now unusually affectionate.
This confirmed his suspicion that Matthew must be exceptional if Fred and Rachel were treating him like this.
Hence, Martin became even more enthusiastic. "Matthew, you must be thirsty. Come in and rest. I'll make you some tea."
Brandon stood there, bewildered. Why had Martin's demeanor shifted so drastically? How could this be?
In the distance, Quinn was equally stunned. They had just kicked Matthew out, and now they were welcoming him back in?
Just as he was struggling to comprehend this perplexing turn of events, he received a call from Logan.
"Have you found out everything?" Quinn asked.
Logan replied, "Yes, everything. Matthew is a farmer from Silverbrook Village in the Brackenridge district of Lambda City. His parents are farmers as well.
"He was imprisoned three years ago and just got out recently. His wife divorced him and took over the company they started together. It's called Evergreen Group. "Now, he's a divorced man with a child. Plus, an ex-convict with no job or income."
Quinn's jaw dropped.
Despite his resentment toward Rachel for being Wealthwave Group's president, he had to admit that she was one of Khoitwood's top beauties and a renowned ice queen. Her suitors were all wealthy and distinguished young men. It was shocking that she had chosen a divorced ex-convict with no income.
But then again, Quinn saw this as an opportunity to undermine Rachel and reclaim the position of president. Matthew's criminal record could be powerful leverage.
In the living room, Martin and Yvonne were chatting with Matthew.
"Matthew, you came at the perfect time. The day after tomorrow is Yvonne's birthday. Lots of our friends and relatives will be at the party.
"As Rachel's boyfriend, you'll be the most important guest, so be sure to make a good impression."
A birthday party? Matthew hadn't expected such a coincidence. Just as he was about to respond, Rachel spoke up.
"Dad, I've just taken over our company, but my uncles and cousins don't respect me at all. They're likely to unite against me during the party. What should I do?" Martin's gaze sharpened at her words. "Dad was the one who appointed you as president. Who would dare to oppose his decision?
"I've been ridiculed for over 20 years because I have no sons. Now that you're successful, it's time for us to shine. Go and invite them all to the birthday party."