Chapter 79

Iris White watched Andrew Smith's retreating figure and sighed softly. "Luna, you're a lucky girl. Instructor Andrew seems like a decent man—he won't let you down." She took Luna's hand and spoke earnestly, "Listen, if you ever need money for school, just tell me. Your brother and I will manage, no matter how tight things get. But remember this—never accept money from Andrew. A woman must never owe a man favors, or you'll lose respect in his family."

Luna's eyes grew warm. Her sister always put her first.

"Don't worry, Iris," she said, squeezing Iris's calloused hand. "The university provides grants, and I can work part-time. You shouldn't skimp on food—the kids need proper meals." She flashed a bright smile. "Our best days are still ahead."

"Yes, the best days are coming!" Iris nodded repeatedly.

Nearby, William Cooper lowered his head silently, lost in thought.

At dinner, Iris served steaming porridge, fresh steamed buns, and a pot of stew—a rare feast for their household, where pickles with porridge was the usual fare.

Luna felt a pang of guilt. She hadn't meant to burden her sister. This visit had resolved Iris's worries and cured her brother-in-law's ailment, repaying their years of kindness. She planned to leave tomorrow—but not before settling one final matter. Frank Harris's free ride was about to end.

Memories of Frank's past cruelty flickered in Luna's eyes. She couldn't take his life in this lawful society, but she wouldn't let him roam free either. Frank relied entirely on his childless uncle's support. Cut off that lifeline, and...

Footsteps interrupted her thoughts. Richard Adams and Factory Manager Victor Green arrived with their wives, arms laden with gifts—milk powder, malted drinks, canned food, chocolates—piling the table high. Before leaving, they pressed a thick envelope into her hands.

Despite her protests, Luna had to accept. Richard's demeanor had shifted markedly since morning—after verifying her medical skills with Andrew and hearing of David Moore's recovery, they now regarded her as a hidden master.

Victor, ever shrewd, promoted Iris to workshop supervisor the next day, bypassing protocol. His wife Fiona began visiting Iris constantly, acting like sisters. Workers whispered about Iris's sudden connection to the factory elite.

Only Victor knew the truth: befriending Iris meant securing access to Luna—a lifeline for future ailments.