Chapter 225: Family Heirloom

While Martina wasn't particularly picky when it came to food, if she could have something delicious, she naturally wouldn't want to eat something unappetizing. As she savored the delicious food, she felt her mood significantly improving. At the same time, she thought about how she had successfully closed two business deals today, earning quite a bit of money, which made her even happier. Currently, Martina was financially independent and capable of supporting herself without relying on anyone. She could even comfortably support her father when he came to live with her. The thought of her bank account, which would soon be enriched through her own efforts, filled her with happiness. Her positive energy was contagious, affecting the atmosphere around her. Benjamin had been observing Martina's change in demeanor. Seeing her in such high spirits lifted his own mood considerably. Meanwhile, the only person struggling to eat was Elizabeth. If she hadn't been extremely hungry, she might not have been able to take a single bite. Jack, on the other hand, was enjoying the meal, and midway through, he signaled to Nathan with a subtle glance. Nathan left and returned to Jack's bedroom for a couple of minutes. Since this minor action didn't attract anyone's attention, no one inquired about what he had been up to. Jack decided to bring up a question himself, "Martina, how many years have you been with our family?" Hearing this, Martina was caught off guard and momentarily froze in place. Her body trembled slightly as she contemplated the question seriously, given that it came from Jack. "Approximately six years and three months, I'd say," Martina estimated the time down to the months. Jack nodded, "Yes, it's been more than six years. Over six years... even family members should get used to it." Martina couldn't quite figure out what Jack meant by this and decided to stay silent, waiting to hear more. On the other hand, Benjamin seemed to grasp his father's intentions immediately. His eyes lit up, and being an intellectual, he often understood people's intentions quite easily. But he didn't say anything and continued to sit there as if nothing had happened, occasionally glancing at Martina. Amid the curious and watchful eyes of the others, Jack continued slowly, "This is a gift from me to you. Consider it a memento." Martina saw an exquisitely wrapped box appear in front of her and wondered what it might contain. However, she couldn't refuse Jack's kind gesture. Watching Jack open the box, she found a beautifully crafted bracelet inside. It was made from carved jade with intricate, hollowed-out designs. The patterns on it were unfamiliar to her, but they appeared remarkably beautiful. Moreover, it looked quite expensive. Martina had never seen anything like it before, and apart from knowing that it was particularly expensive, she didn't have any other thoughts. However, Benjamin's pupils suddenly dilated slightly. Even Elizabeth stared at the gift with widened eyes, as if she wanted to grab the box for herself right away. For their family, this item held immense significance, extending beyond just being a bracelet; it was a precious family heirloom. Nevertheless, no matter how important the gift seemed, Martina felt uncomfortable accepting it. She tried to express her feelings awkwardly, "Jack, I think this bracelet is too precious. I really can't accept it. I know you're doing this for my good, and to make me happy. But I don't think it's necessary. I appreciate your intentions." However, Jack suddenly wore a stern expression and said, "Take it. I insist. And I've given it to you. It's not right to give a gift and then take it back. Are you saying you don't like it?" Martina quickly shook her head. "Of course not. And you are so kind to me." Jack continued, "Then take it. It's not that precious; the real value is in the craftsmanship. If you accept it, I will be happy." Martina didn't know how to refuse any longer. She couldn't possibly turn down the kind gesture of an elder. She glanced instinctively at Benjamin, hoping he could help her in this situation. To her surprise, he nodded, indicating that she should accept the bracelet. Feeling completely awkward, Martina had no choice but to focus on Benjamin, who seemed to be the only person who could help her. She swallowed hard and reluctantly accept the bracelet. Later, Martina thought it didn't matter. If she ever left in the future, she could leave the bracelet behind. She was only temporarily keeping it for Jack, after all. Benjamin, however, was unaware of Martina's thoughts. Otherwise, he would surely regret his choices, as he once foolishly had to chase after her to the crematorium. Martina said, "Since it's your kind gesture, I'll accept it for now. Let me keep it temporarily. Thank you so much." As she truly accepted the gift, Elizabeth couldn't hold back her exclamations any longer. "Jack, how could you do this? That bracelet represents the position of the head of the Walker family, and it's a family heirloom! I've been in the Walker family for so long and never got it. Why does it end up in Martina's hands?" Elizabeth was close to tears. She wanted to ask why, why Martina always got such wonderful things handed to her, one after another, willingly, while she struggled so hard to attain what she wanted but never succeeded. Jack, displeased, gave Elizabeth a stern look. "You came out for dinner, didn't you? Why are you talking so much?" Terrified, Elizabeth became silent. But Martina, at that moment, realized the significance of the bracelet was more than she initially thought. It was not just expensive; it carried deep meaning. Now, she couldn't accept it. She wasn't planning to be with Benjamin, and taking it would send the wrong message. So, she pushed the bracelet halfway back and said, "Jack, I really can't accept it."