Chapter 1085

The message Gerardo sent caused instant chaos in a deceptively humble bamboo cottage nestled deep in the mountains—a place that looked rustic on the outside, yet hid discreet luxuries and full smart-home tech within. Just moments earlier, four elderly men had been locked in their usual heated debate over herbal teas, calligraphy techniques, and whose koi pond had the most “cultured” fish. But the second the notification chimed, all bickering ceased. They clustered around a single phone like children spying forbidden candy. “Has that brat Fuller really gotten himself a girlfriend?” “Judging by how cozy they look—it’s not just a girlfriend, it’s practically a wife!” “That scoundrel! We haven’t even found Jane yet, and he’s already moved on? Jaxon, don’t be upset. I swear I’ll give that boy a good thrashing for you. I’ll head down the mountain right now!” Kevin, Francis, and Benedict chimed in one after another, their voices filled with disbelief and varying shades of indignation. But Jax