Chapter 150: Seraphina’s Hospitality The morning sunlight spilled into the living room, casting a warm, inviting glow.
Xin and his family sat in the living room, the events of the previous night still fresh in their minds. They were watching the news on the large flatscreen TV mounted on the wall, and their attention was riveted to the screen.
On TV, a serious-faced news anchor stood in front of a charred building, its blackened exterior contrasting starkly against the clear blue sky.
The headline at the bottom of the screen read, "Devastating Fire at the mass condominium in Area 70."
"Good morning, everyone. I’m Jane Miller, and we’re reporting live from the scene of last night’s fire," the news anchor began, her voice somber.
"Authorities have confirmed that the fire was caused by faulty wiring in the building, which was already old and lacked proper fire safety measures."
"Faulty wiring?" Xiaxia sneered. "No one used those rooms above. The building is old, and they must set it on fire on purpose to get the insurance."
Evelyn sighed. "Let’s not think about that anymore, and let’s just be thankful that we’re alive."
The camera panned to show the scorched interior of the building, waterlogged remnants of furniture, and the blackened walls.
Firefighters and investigators could be seen in the background, diligently working to assess the damage and gather evidence.
"It was a harrowing night for the residents in the building," Jane continued. "Luckily, thanks to the swift response of our heroic firefighters, there were no casualties reported."
"It’s because it’s staged," Xiaxia insisted.
Evelyn let out a relieved breath upon hearing that no lives had been lost, but the weight of the situation still pressed upon her.
Jane turned her attention to a local fire department representative, who stood nearby. "Can you tell us more about what happened, Chief Rodriguez?"
The chief cleared his throat before responding, "Last night, our firefighters received an emergency call about a fire at this location. We arrived promptly to find the building engulfed in flames. The fire had spread rapidly due to the building’s aging structure and the fact that the fire sprinklers were not functional."
"Thankfully," Chief Rodriguez continued, "our team managed to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighboring buildings. But the damage here is extensive, and the investigation into the exact cause is still ongoing."
The news anchor turned back to the camera. "Thank you, Chief Rodriguez. It’s a reminder of the importance of regular safety inspections and maintenance of older buildings."
Xin and the others continued to watch as the news report showed images of firefighters in action, citizens displaced from their homes, and the aftermath of the blaze.
They were thankful that they had a roof over their head and were safe inside a penthouse.
After the segment concluded, Evelyn sighed heavily, her face etched with worry. "It’s a miracle that no one was hurt."
Xiaxia’s concern was palpable as she asked, "But . . . where would we go now? As much as I want to stay here forever . . . we can’t."
Evelyn nodded in agreement. "I’ll find a way. You don’t have to worry about that. Just focus on your studies."
"Mom . . ." Xin began, his gaze locking with Evelyn’s. "I’m going to buy back our old house in Area 40."
Evelyn sighed softly, her expression filled with concern. "Xin . . ."
"Just give me a month."
"Xin . . ." Evelyn reached out and gently clasped Xin’s hand in hers, her touch warm and reassuring. "The new owners might not be willing to sell the house back to us. It’s better to let go of that idea."
Xin remained silent, his determination undeterred. He believed that with the right offer, he could convince the new owner to sell their old house back to them.
"Why not just stay here?"
All eyes turned to Seraphina, who had reappeared in more comfortable attire — a t-shirt and jogging pants. Even in these casual clothes, her class and elegance shone through.
Xiaxia couldn’t help but mutter in awe, "Why does she look like she’s in slow motion every time I see her?"
Seraphina nonchalantly took a seat on the sofa, crossing her legs. "Why not stay here? This penthouse is mostly empty."
The proposition hung in the air, leaving Xin and his family exchanging uncertain glances.
"As much as we’re grateful for your offer," Evelyn began with a soft smile, "we can’t possibly take advantage of you and your father’s generosity forever."
Seraphina simply nodded. "Is that so . . . Then do as you like, but know that you can stay here for as long as you want. No one will kick you out."
"Thank you," Evelyn said sincerely, bowing her head slightly, her hand on her children’s head, forcing them to bow and follow her lead.
Their conversation was interrupted by the doorbell ringing, causing Seraphina to stand up.
"That must be the breakfast that I ordered," she said. "Come, let’s eat."
Before anyone could react, Seraphina had already gone to the door and opened it, revealing a spread of delicious breakfast dishes waiting to be enjoyed.
The room was now a scene of bustling activity as dozens of impeccably dressed men in butler suits went about their tasks while Xin and the others could only watched in a daze.
The butlers, all of them in matching attire with polished shoes and white gloves, moved with the quiet efficiency of a well-trained team.
Their movements were choreographed, synchronized, and almost dance-like as they wheeled carts laden with trays of delectable food and beverages into the room.
Each cart was a masterpiece of culinary presentation, adorned with gleaming silver platters and domed lids that concealed tantalizing treasures within.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, warm pastries, and a medley of breakfast delights wafted through the air.
Xin and his family felt their stomach growling.
Seraphina noticed their rumbling tummies and flashed a small smile. "Feel free to indulge in the food, and I’ve also made sure the pantry is well-stocked, so help yourselves to that as well."