When they returned to their residence, the lights in the main hall were on. As for the guest courtyard next door, only the outdoor lamps were lit.

The elders were gathered in the main hall, obviously waiting for them to return.

Once the car came to a stop, Noelle got out carrying a stack of account books. Jane came out of the house and smiled warmly when she saw Noelle. "You two are back early today. Have you eaten?"

"Mom, Mr. Laurence didn't have any evening engagements, so we came straight