CHAPTER 17

Depending on the situation, she could be both benevolent and cruel, like a white witch. She had seen a lot over the last fifteen years, people coming and going, and so on.

Each family has its own house, and where you lived on the island was determined by your job. There were so many departments on the island; some oversaw the overall upkeep of the mansion, even though Violet didn't spend much time there.

They also kept sheep for the fur they used to make Violet's coats as well as exporting some to reliable customers, cattle rearing, and chicken farming, they also grew certain crops including fruits like apples, grapes, and pears, and they didn't forget fishing.

In other words, the island was a huge corporation that made millions of dollars every year, so everyone who stayed on the island was a worker with the same rights as everyone else unless they were bound by some contracts made before their employment.

“So, you're saying you're the one who made all of her clothes?”

“Yes, isn't your mother wonderful?” she asked in a tone that was seeking compliments.

“You are unrivaled. But how did you discover that talent? You've never demonstrated it before,” he praised her before asking questions.

“I guess if you're given a lot of chances and try everything, you'll find something you're good at.”

“Opportunities?”

“Yes, everyone attends lessons of varying caliber, and you can find something you really want to do through them all. Those who are unable to do so can be assigned to any department. Those who already have qualifications may be assigned a position or transferred to another location. But the island is better; it's peaceful and lovely.”

“You seem to love this place a lot.”

“If you live here, you will grow to love it.”

“I'm so glad you're alive and well, mother. Will Violet let you go now that I've made a deal with her?” he asked, as that question had been bugging him for a while.

“She will keep her promises, but I am unable to leave. This is already my home; if you want to see me, I can come to you, or you can come to me.”

“Mother...”

“Aside from you, I don't have anyone else out there. People want my clothes, they respect me, and they are aware of my abilities. Out there, I'm just me, a mother who abandoned her son, a mistress about whom people can gossip, and I don't want this for myself or you.”

“But I ......”

“I love you so much, son, that I would do anything to see you happy, but I don't want to go back there. I hope you can consider.”

He realized there was a whole new world out there. He never expected to come across something like this in his life, but the thought of his mother being alive and well gave him a sense of relief. He was both grateful and resentful of Violet, but he couldn't do anything but wait and see what happened.

“Does your father, by the way, know you're here?” she curiously asked.

“I live alone, and there is no need for me to inform him of every move I make,” the thought of his father’s lies annoyed him so much.

“But what about school?”

“I don't have classes, so missing a few isn't a big deal,” he answered her.

“That's not something you should do. Do you know how long you'll be here?”

“I didn't ask. I have no idea; I'll have to ask Anne or Violet.”

"Did she come with Anne?"

“She did, indeed.”

“Since she met that girl, she's become a little brighter and warmer than before. That little girl stayed for about six years, receiving various private lessons. Nothing escapes that girl's knowledge. She could have done better, but she kept mentioning how much she wanted to work by her godmother's side.

Many people envied their relationships and continue to do so. They make a good couple, even though the girl does not appear to be as knowledgeable about sorcery as her mother.”

“Sorcery!”

“What makes you sound surprised? You should have figured out by now that
Violet isn't quite right. Whatever she went through as a child may have shaped her into the person she is today. And that is something you should never ask, regardless of how close you are.”

“Does that mean red is also forbidden here?” he asked curiously as he wanted to know more about her.

“Of course, it is. Furthermore, any form of violence is prohibited. Whoever violates that is personally punished by her; there is no law enforcement involved, and believe me, it is not a pleasant thing to witness.”

“Has she ever punished anyone since you arrived?”

“There were five cases, and everyone was forced to observe. You'll wish you were dead rather than go through that. I don't even want to consider it. It's late, but since you don't appear to be leaving tonight, I'll make some dinner.”

“Okay, it's been far too long since I've eaten the food you prepared.”

“Don't worry, I'll prepare a feast for you,” his mother assured him.

He watched as she stood up and made her way to the kitchen. He didn't want to stay seated, so he started looking around the house before going outside. He could see the mansion from the front porch of his mother's house. He was wondering how Violet was doing right now. So, what's the point?

He went for a walk, rubbing his chin and letting the cool air brush against his face. It was an honor to be here. Dylan was truly in a good mood just being able to enjoy nature without being constrained, to be able to enjoy life as it is without being pressured by anything.

He not only found himself a woman, but he also found his mother, who had been missing for years. Dylan felt that his life was more complete now that these people were in it with him.

This is the main reason he didn't want to think too much while in this heavenly place that was solely Violet's.

He didn't even feel inferior to her like a man because comparing himself to her was pointless. He knew that no matter how hard he tried, he would never be able to catch up to her.

CHAPTER 18