The two of them entered a study.
Deanna noticed signs of recent movement around the room and guessed it had just been set up when she heard John's affectionate voice.
"This study was arranged by Master Gunner this evening. From now on, it belongs to you, Miss. Check if anything is missing. Tomorrow, we will have someone go down to purchase anything you need."
"Everything looks complete for now. If I need anything, I'll let you know."
Deanna glanced around but didn't find anything missing.
John nodded and then gestured for Deanna to approach the desk.
It was then that Deanna noticed a stack of old books and some not-so-new notebooks on the desk.
"What are these?" she asked.
"These are the chronicles of the Martinez family's rise and their genealogy, which you must familiarize yourself with. The other stack contains the family's relationship records and daily expense ledgers, which you need to be aware of."
John pointed to the stacks of books on the desk, leaving Deanna somewhat stunned.
When she finally reacted, she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed. "John, isn't it too early for me to be looking at these?"
Her master was announcing her as the heir, not stepping down immediately. Why was she suddenly being handed the family's ledgers and relationship records?
"Miss, Master Gunner had expected you would said that."
John smiled at Deanna and continued, "Master Gunner said that after the apprenticeship ceremony, the burden of the Martinez family would be passed to you. So it's not too early for you to start looking at these."
Deanna felt as if she had been set up.
Before she could think further, John's affectionate voice sounded again.
"Additionally, Master Gunner hopes you can finish reading these books within three days. After that, he will send over the asset records of the Martinez family from recent years."
"John, I think three days might be a bit short."
Deanna licked her lips, trying to buy more time.
Her memory was good, but not photographic.
John didn't agree or disagree; he simply relayed Gunner's words. "Since Master Gunner gave you three days, he must believe in you. I won't take up any more of your time. Good luck, Miss!"
With that, he left, ignoring Deanna's distressed expression.
Deanna could only sit at the desk with a forlorn face and pick up the first chronicle to read.
Time passed quietly in the study.
At first, Deanna felt downcast, but as she read more about the Martinez family's history, she became increasingly engrossed.
According to the chronicles, the Martinez family ancestors were chief royal physicians in the 17th century. Each generation's head was highly capable, leading their people through turbulent times. They made numerous contributions during the founding years but retreated to the mountains once order was restored, hiding their talents.
Just as Deanna was deeply absorbed, a phone ringing broke the silence.
The call was a video call from Lance.
Shannon handed the phone to Deanna.
"What are you doing?"
"Reading my master's family chronicles."
Deanna raised the ancient book in her hand and looked at the man on the screen. "Are you just finishing up now? Have you eaten?"
"Just finished. We had dinner at six; Xavier ordered it."
Lance replied with a smile.
Deanna smiled in satisfaction. "Looks like you followed orders."
"How could I not follow my future wife's orders?"
His teasing voice made Deanna blush.
She looked at him coquettishly. "Who said I'm your wife? We're not married yet; don't call me that."
"I'm not calling you that randomly. I said 'future.' Besides, our wedding is in just over twenty days. I'm practicing early; what's wrong with that?"
Lance continued to tease Deanna.
Deanna didn't know how to retort and pouted. "Is this really practice?"
"Why not? Practicing now will prevent me from being too nervous on our wedding day and calling you awkwardly."
With that, Lance called her "future wife" a couple more times.
Deanna's cheeks turned even redder. She glared at him in embarrassment. "No more teasing. I'm going back to my books!"
She hung up the phone, put it down, and couldn't help but cup her face to cool her cheeks.
Shannon watched from the side and commented with a light smile, "Miss and the boss have a great relationship."
It was then that Deanna realized Shannon had seen her playful exchange with Lance. Her already flushed cheeks felt like they were burning up.
How could she have forgotten Shannon was there?
This was so embarrassing... How could she break this awkwardness now?