Jack snapped to attention. He knew Maria to be a cold and proud woman.

But she was never impolite or discourteous.

She called the old man so casually as Phil, which only meant they were good friends or at least old acquaintances.

Intrigued, Jack decided not to leave the room. He sidled behind Maria, acting like some sort of sentry.

“This is what you want. Go on and take it."

Hearing this, the man flushed with excitement.

“You, really... It's amazing that you were able to finish it. Sure enough, you are truly Mr. Jenkins’ successor. For scores as valuable as these, the repair work can only be entrusted either to you or to Mr. Jenkins himself."

“That's too much unnecessary talk. I've done my part, so remember to pay up."

Maria looked indifferent all throughout. She had even Lain back on her side of the sofa, as if there wasn't a guest present.

Although she appeared rude, the man noticed Maria's bloodshot eyes and the unmistakable weariness in her demeanor.

Feeling ashamed of his imposition, he quickly said, "Of course, of course. Your service fee will be sent over as soon as possible. I've already notified the accountant before I came here. You must be tired these days, Maria. Don't push yourself too hard, and get some proper rest. Make sure you take care of your body.”

“Okay...”

Maria answered in a voice that was barely above a whisper. Her eyelids were already fluttering shut.

The man promptly stopped talking.

He gingerly picked up the restored music scores and deposited them into his briefcase. He then stared at Maria one Last time, his eyes brimming with admiration, before quietly exiting the room.

Knowing that Maria was a few seconds away from falling asleep, Jack took the liberty of seeing the guest out.

By the time they reached the door, his curiosity got the better of him, and he couldn't help but ask, "Mr. Phillips, right? You are..."

The guest was about to leave, but Jack didn't even get the chance to know the man's identity, or even his full name!

As it happened, Anthony wasn't home today. He had gone to the Wilson residence to see his grandfather.

When Anthony came back and asked about who the caller was, Jack wanted to supply him with a satisfactory answer.

"Oh, this is my business card. I apologize for disturbing you today."

The man courteously handed Jack his card. He didn't seem to be Looking down on the latter simply because he was a bodyguard.

Jack glanced at the card and saw a long line of titles parading next to the actual name.

"Felice Phillips, Musician, Vice President of the Musicians’ Association, Honorary Director of Sheffield Music School, Tenure Professor..."