Many believe that Deana might not show up at the auction due to potential pressure from the Banks Family. After all, they cannot allow Deana to tarnish the family’s reputation.

On the other hand, there are those who argue that Deana, having traveled to Aurous Hill—Bruce’s former home—and signed up for the auction, is likely to attend. Her determined personality suggests that nothing, not even a looming threat, would keep her away.

This speculation led some locals in Eastcliff to set up betting odds on whether Deana would make an appearance at the auction.

Meanwhile, at Thorne’s old house, Deana was preparing for the event. She had made up her mind to attend the auction, regardless of the Banks Family’s objections.

Fitz and Zara stood anxiously by Deana’s door early that morning. When she finally emerged, they were taken aback by her formal attire.

Fitz’s anxiety bubbled over as he exclaimed, “Mom! Are you really going to participate in that auction?”

Deana nodded and replied, “I’ve already signed up; there’s no turning back now.”

Zara, displaying her concern, interjected, “Mom! You can’t go! My friend mentioned that everyone in Eastcliff is watching you closely. They’re saying that if you attend, the Banks Family will lose face.”

With a serious demeanor, Deana responded, “The Banks Family’s reputation isn’t solely up to me; it’s determined by their actions. Your grandfather and father play a crucial role in that.”

Zara, still anxious, pleaded, “Mom, I get what you’re saying, but the past actions of the Banks Family can’t be changed. If you skip the auction now, it might help salvage some dignity for the family.”

Looking intently at Zara, Deana replied firmly, “Zara, I don’t care about anyone’s opinion of me, including this situation. People can think whatever they want. Do you know why?”

Zara instinctively shook her head and asked, “Why?”

Deana explained with conviction, “The reason they believe I should prioritize the Banks Family’s reputation is simply because I’m a married woman. They think I should always put my husband’s family first. Since my husband has another woman, they expect me to keep silent and maintain a facade of peace so that it appears I’m prioritizing his reputation. They believe this is how a woman should behave. But I find that notion to be quite tragic! Why should I suppress myself to please others? Why should I sacrifice my own happiness to protect someone else? Is it simply because I’m a woman?”

As she spoke, Deana looked deeply into Zara’s eyes and said earnestly, “Zara, I don’t want you to marry someone just for their wealth and power. I want you to preserve your dignity above all else. Don’t fall into the trap of being a woman who constantly puts others first; otherwise, you may never find true happiness!”

At that moment, Zara felt as if she had been struck by lightning. Gazing into her mother’s resolute eyes, a whirlwind of emotions surged within her. She began to question, “Why would I say such things to my mother? Will I think the same way when faced with similar situations in the future? Why am I being so foolish?”

Lost in her thoughts, she clenched her fists and finally declared, “Mom, if you’re determined to go, then I’ll accompany you.”