Lucy felt crestfallen and scowled.

Adrian continued, “You know some things, but it’s far from enough. Although I saved you twice, the first time was a coincidence. The second time was because of your parents' pleading, plus I did it in Everett’s name. I did him a favor, but you don’t have a close relationship with him. So tell me, why should I continue helping you? Do you think I’m a martyr or something?" He smiled, appearing somewhat indifferent and contemptuous.

Lucy knew what he was getting at. She racked her brains to find anything about the Wainwrights that might help attract Adrian’s favor to them.

"I’ll give you everything I have if you help my family and save me from marrying Howard. My family, The Wainwrights, will provide you with whatever you want, and we have many means to get what we want," she offered.

Although Lucy thought hard, upon deeper reflection, she realized she didn't actually know much about her family's affairs. She didn't even know where their problems lay