My Manor

Although there were no cod, there was no shortage of this type of fish in the Atlantic Ocean, and they could be caught at any time. Thanks to the nourishment from Jiang Hai's seaweed spirit, the fish in his fishery, while not overcrowded, were quite numerous and varied. In addition to the breeding area and the coral zone, there were many other places with abundant resources. Based on the estimates of Edward Anderson and his team, who went out to sea recently to feed the bait, the fish in Jiang Hai's fishery were now worth about 100 million US dollars. This estimate also included the coral area.

However, this provided them with considerable confidence. After all, these fish had only been raised for a quarter of the year. In another three quarters, when the fish reached a year's age, their size and value would increase significantly.

That evening, Jiang Hai prepared fried beef and fried cod. Although his cooking skills were still a work in progress, the high-quality ingredients made Bernice nod in approval. The food at Jiang Hai's house was certainly some of the best around.

The following morning, after finishing their respective exercises, Jiang Hai and Bernice left together in Jiang Hai's Rolls-Royce. Jiang Hai insisted that the car must be used to pick people up, but Bernice simply smiled and said nothing. It was rare to see such a car, especially with the owner acting as the driver.

Soon, they arrived at Boston Airport. After parking, they waited for about half an hour until the plane from Miami landed. Shortly after, a girl wrapped up tightly, even holding an umbrella, walked out of the airport. It was already early June, and though the weather was warm, over 20°C, this woman had bundled herself up.

Despite the warm weather, Jiang Hai took them back to his manor, which was only a short drive from the airport. The highway to his house was free of the usual Boston traffic, allowing for a smooth trip.

As they entered the manor, Xiaoya, who had just arrived, couldn't help but stare out at the surroundings. It was her first time in such a place, and everything felt so new and curious to her. Once the car was parked, Jiang Hai grabbed the luggage, and the two girls made their way to the villa together.

Inside the villa, they were greeted by Darlene and Marian, who were busy teaching Jiang Hai how to use the toilet for the capybaras. The two little guys, recently named Huahua and Bubble by the girls, had found their new names through a cartoon, but Jiang Hai didn't quite like them. He preferred the more literary names of Da Er and Xiao Er.

Along with the capybaras, Jiang Hai's other pets were also present, watching curiously as the two girls entered. Seeing so many eyes on her, Xiaoya was startled and stammered, "Wow, hello."

Darlene and Marian immediately stood up and greeted her. "Hello! You must be the sister who will be staying with us for a while. Don't worry, our Jiang is very capable and can definitely help with your illness," Darlene said warmly.

"Your family...?" Xiaoya was momentarily confused, casting a glance at Bernice. Her eyes clearly questioned the nature of Jiang Hai's relationship with the two girls.

"They're my children," Jiang Hai explained with a smile, noticing her unease. "Haha, they may not look like it, but they are. This is Darlene, and this is Marian. If you need anything, you can ask them."

Slightly taken aback by this explanation, Xiaoya realized that the two girls were probably adopted, though she was still puzzled as to how Jiang Hai, a single man, could have adopted such older daughters. But that wasn't her concern; she was here for treatment, not for personal investigations.

"Thank you," Xiaoya said politely, introducing herself. "My name is Xiaoya. Nice to meet you."

"It's no trouble at all," Darlene and Marian replied with smiles.

"Alright, you two keep an eye on these little guys. We'll head upstairs," Jiang Hai said, pleased by the progress the girls had made. Initially shy, Darlene and Marian now confidently interacted with visitors, a development that Jiang Hai was happy to see.

After speaking to them, Jiang Hai took his luggage upstairs to the guest room that had already been prepared.

When they arrived in the room, Xiaoya let out a long sigh. Compared to the overwhelming newness outside, this room felt familiar and secure.

"This is your room," Jiang Hai said, gesturing around with a smile.

"I really appreciate you," Xiaoya said sincerely, removing her scarf and sunglasses. She had felt that it was impolite to speak to others while covered like that, but now that she was indoors, she felt more at ease.

Jiang Hai was taken aback for a moment when she uncovered her face. The girl in front of him resembled an elf from a fairy tale. Her skin was pure white, almost without a trace of color, and her white hair, too, was flawless. Her delicate features were striking, and despite her illness, her eyes remained large and expressive.

For a brief moment, Jiang Hai was stunned by her beauty.

"Well, it's okay. Just treat this place as your home. I'll go prepare lunch. You can eat here at noon and go downstairs in the evening," Jiang Hai said, snapping himself out of his thoughts. Smiling, he gave a polite nod and left the room.

Once Jiang Hai was gone, Xiaoya breathed a sigh of relief. She had been nervous facing a stranger, but now she could relax.

"Don't let his careless act fool you," Bernice said with a soft chuckle as she walked over and put her arm around Xiaoya's shoulders. "He has some skills. He should be able to help you."

"Sister, I've gotten used to it over the years. It's alright. But why does Jiang Hai sound so familiar?" Xiaoya asked with a smile, then frowned in confusion.

"Ah, yes. It's the Jiang Hai you're thinking of," Bernice laughed, recognizing the name's significance.