Ever since that night Aria Rhodes and Hayden argued over Julian Rhodes’ future plans, Ronia Ackerly had been worried all day long. She wanted Hayden to change his mind and not send Julian to the military to suffer hardships, but this time, Hayden seemed to be set on it, ignoring whatever she said, and had even started making arrangements. She couldn’t stop him at all. She could only call Julian, telling him not to come home during this period, or for the next few months, or even half a year; in any case, he shouldn’t come back until Hayden changed his mind. Julian didn’t take it seriously at all; he believed that what he wanted to do was his own decision, not something his parents could decide. So, he didn’t care at all about Ronia and Hayden and continued doing whatever he needed to do, completely unaffected. However, he hadn’t been home for a long time. Getting used to being outside, especially since when he came home, Hayden would just reprimand him, made him too lazy to return; it wasn’t like he couldn’t live elsewhere. Previously, Ronia would often call Julian, urging him to come home, but now she no longer did, letting him run wild outside. She even thought if Julian played too hard and ended up being unable to go to the military, it would be even better. After all, she could afford to support her son. But ultimately, that was her son, and not seeing him for a long time constantly made her worry, concerned whether he was eating well and sleeping well outside. So, Ronia was extremely worried during this time. Talking to Aria Rhodes about Julian now was to ask Aria to help think of a way to get Hayden to change his mind. Hearing Aria’s words, Ronia’s expression grew even more worried: "I don’t know where Julian is, but there’s something urgent now." Ronia said, her face also showing anxiety. It was rare for Aria to see Ronia ; since she was little, there were not many things that made Ronia anxious. If she was anxious, then it was not a small matter. Aria’s heart also tightened, mainly because she feared it might be related to The Vaughn Family and Poe Vaughn, which would be troublesome. So, she quickly asked, "Mom, what is it? Please tell me, don’t worry." Ronia didn’t hesitate and said directly, "Your dad wants to send Julian to the military." This... this was not considered an urgent matter? Aria was momentarily unable to react. Because this wasn’t a big deal, she even thought it was a good thing. With Julian’s temperament, he should be sent to the military to be trained, or who knows what he’d turn into without it. But quickly, Aria thought of something and looked at Ronia. Ronia’s face was full of concern, even more anxious than before. After speaking, she continued, "What kind of place is the military? It’s a place of hardship and toil. You know Julian, he’s been pampered by us since he was little, with delicate skin. How can he go to such a place?" "If he goes to such a place, he’s sure to suffer, get hurt, and become unhealthy. How can I let your brother go under such circumstances?" "But, I don’t know what’s wrong with your dad. It’s like he’s possessed or something, absolutely insisting on sending Julian. Now, your brother hasn’t been home for a long time." "I haven’t seen him in ages, and I’m really worried he might get into trouble outside." "Aria, go try to persuade your dad, please, to not send Julian to the military. Just let him stay home. I’ve even thought of sending Julian abroad, letting him gain experience overseas. With time, Julian will surely improve." "You’ve always been sensible and obedient. Your dad will more or less listen to what you say. Go persuade him." Ronia placed her hand on Aria’s, her face pale with worry. Aria wanted to say something, but finally, she just moved her lips and said, "Mom, is Dad at the company? I’ll go check there." Ronia immediately nodded, "Yes, your dad is at the company." "No, no, no, don’t rush. Have a meal first, rest well, and then go to your dad’s company." "It won’t make a difference if you wait a little longer." Ronia spoiled Julian, but also Aria, as Aria carried the blood of her only sister, naturally treating her like a treasure. So, although Ronia was worried about Julian, she didn’t neglect Aria. Aria shook her head and smiled sweetly, "It’s okay, I’m not really hungry anyway." "Besides, it’s been so long since my brother last came home. I’m worried too." Saying this, Aria wanted to get up, but Ronia quickly held her back, pretending to be stern, "Listen, eat your meal." "Eat and rest before going to see your dad—your dad’s not someone whose mind is easily changed." After saying this, Ronia continued to dish food onto Aria’s plate, urging her to eat. Aria wasn’t hurrying to see Hayden because of Ronia’s words, but simply because she wanted to see him, wanted to see Poe Vaughn. Of course, she also had to discuss Julian’s matters. Now was a suitable time to go. But Ronia insisted she eat, rest, and then go see Hayden, so Aria wasn’t in a rush. A short wait wouldn’t make a difference. Aria comforted Ronia, advising her not to worry and to consider everything in the long term. Just like that, under Ronia’s care, Aria had her meal, then went upstairs to wash and rest. But she couldn’t sleep; she needed to adjust her jet lag. So, after tidying up a bit, she left her room and told Ronia she was worried about her brother and thought it best to see Hayden sooner. Ronia wanted her to rest properly but felt guilty seeing Aria’s worried face. "It’s my fault. I shouldn’t have told you." "It’s okay, Mom. It makes no difference whether you tell me now or later." "I’ll go find Dad now. If I don’t rest, I can adjust my jet lag tonight." Aria held Ronia’s hand, repeatedly assuring her, so Ronia, unable to refuse, nodded, "Then I’ll take you to your dad’s company. I won’t go in; I’ll wait outside for you." Aria was helpless, "No need, Mom. I can go alone. Let the driver take me. You should rest well at home." "You look so haggard." Hearing her words, Ronia immediately touched her own face, her heart tightening. Hayden wasn’t one to be tempted by beauty, nor someone who couldn’t take his eyes off a pretty face. In every aspect, Hayden was very good—a decent man. Back then, if not for some manipulations, how could she have the happiness she enjoys today? So, even now, she didn’t regret her past actions. However, women always age, always fear looking unattractive, always fear their husbands’ disdain. Even though she worked hard to maintain herself, her age just couldn’t compare to when she was young. Aria’s words rang like an alarm in her ears, and her expression immediately changed, "Hag... haggard?" Ronia panicked, instinctively wanting to check a mirror, but held back with Aria still present. "Does Mom really look unwell? Do I look bad?" "Have I... have I aged?" Aria knew Ronia cared about her appearance because she cared very much about Hayden. She feared getting older, feared Hayden would like other women. The rightful source is noveⅼfire.net "You’re not old, just haggard. You look thinner." "Mom, you need to rest well, take care of yourself, especially keeping a cheerful mood, otherwise, if this continues..." Aria didn’t finish the sentence, but the meaning was clear. Ronia’s face turned pale, her whole body not daring to move. Aria knew what Ronia was thinking, quickly supporting her back to the bedroom, soothing her in her ear, "Mom, the most important thing for a woman to maintain her looks is to stay in a good mood." "I know you’re worried about Julian, but Julian is already twenty, not young, and he spends a lot of time outside, more knowledgeable than most. He’s especially smart, he won’t get into trouble." "And also, you should trust Dad, Julian is his own son too, and he cares for Julian." Ronia wanted to refute what Aria said, but suddenly didn’t know what to say. And Aria continued speaking.