Testing and Provocation

Despite feeling an unprecedented sense of powerlessness, I tried hard to compose myself, maintaining a calm and collected demeanor. I understood what Dora Mitchell was trying to convey. However, I couldn't afford to show any hint of my thoughts in front of her. It was clear from the moment I first met her; Dora Mitchell was not simple—she had been testing me.

Seeing my numb expression, she seemed surprised. "Grace, you can't tell me you think this is normal?"

I took a sip of my coffee, which tasted bitterly unpleasant, and put down the cup. "It's not that I think it's normal, I just really can't comprehend your lifestyle. It's like I've always enjoyed street food, finding simple things delicious. I don't understand the life of the wealthy, so your talk of binding agreements is beyond me."