Zara contemplated the reputation of the Banks Family. In that moment, a realization struck her: “While I am indeed a member of the Banks Family, I am also a woman. If I find myself facing a similar issue with my mother today, I cannot remain steadfast. If I marry someone and encounter the same situation in the future, who will stand by me then? The root of this issue isn’t about the Banks Family’s reputation; it’s about principle! This is a matter of right versus wrong. Right is right, and wrong is wrong. A woman should not be expected to accept something just because she is a woman! I shouldn’t feel ashamed for the sake of a man’s reputation! Therefore, today, I will accompany my mother to this auction!”

Fitz felt a sense of helplessness as he observed the situation. As the eldest son of the Banks Family, he was capable of recognizing the pros and cons. From the standpoint of the Banks Family, he believed his mother should refrain from participating in this auction at such a critical time; the overall well-being of the Banks Family was paramount.

However, after listening to his mother and sister, he suddenly understood that he couldn’t solely prioritize the interests of the Banks Family and overlook his mother’s feelings.

With a sigh, he said, “Mom, I’ll go with you too.”

Deana smiled reassuringly and replied, “There’s no need for you to join me. Just let Zara accompany me.”

Fitz quickly interjected, “Mom, why can’t I accompany you?”

Deana replied seriously, “You are the eldest grandson of Lord Banks. It’s important that you maintain a humble appearance.”

Fitz countered, “But Zara, she…” Deana waved her hand dismissively, “You are different from Zara.”

It was clear to Fitz that as the eldest son and grandson, he had a responsibility to uphold the family’s legacy. If he were to make a significant mistake in front of his grandfather, he could jeopardize his future role in the Banks Family. Unlike Zara, who seemed indifferent to the family’s wealth, power, and inheritance, Fitz couldn’t afford that luxury.

The elderly butler chimed in with comforting words, “Young master, it’s best to heed the second lady’s advice and not accompany her.”

Fitz hesitated but ultimately nodded, admitting, “Alright, Mom, I won’t join you.”

As he spoke, Fitz bowed his head in shame, realizing that although his mother insisted he stay behind, he was still persuaded to do so in the end.

Seemingly aware of his thoughts, Deana said, “Fitz, let the driver take you to the airport. I’ll arrange for a plane to leave at ten o’clock to take you back to Eastcliff.”

“What?!” Fitz exclaimed. “Mom, I don’t want to go back to Eastcliff.”

Deana replied firmly, “Your feelings don’t change the fact that you must return. At ten o’clock, I will attend the auction, and you’ll leave for Eastcliff. This is your way of expressing your commitment to the Banks Family.”

Fitz immediately grew anxious and protested, “What do you mean by expressing my commitment?! Are you suggesting I want to distance myself from you on purpose?”

“Exactly,” Deana affirmed without hesitation. “What I choose to do is my own business. It doesn’t involve you. You don’t have to support me, nor should you be entangled in my actions. By returning now, you can show the outside world your stance, giving your grandfather something to consider and diminishing any negative perception of our mother-son relationship. Why wouldn’t you do that?”

Fitz objected, “But I don’t want to make that statement!”

Deana sighed with a hint of exasperation and smiled, “You need to mature a bit.”

With that, she turned to the old butler and instructed, “Uncle White, please take him to the airport.”

The old butler nodded without hesitation, “Of course, second lady.”

Fitz quickly added, “Mom, I still have business to attend to in Aurous Hill.”