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Chapter 1615: A War with No Victors (Sixty-Five)
Chapter 1615: A War with No Victors (Sixty-Five)
In fact, not only Prim Peniel, but even Catherine and the others were surprised by Isabelle's generosity.
Twenty percent may not seem like a lot, but once the Witch Beauty Shop truly takes off, it will be a substantial fortune.
"If you want people to be dedicated to their work, you have to offer them a good deal," Katrina said, puzzled by the others' astonishment.
"Albert said that she'll only work tirelessly for you if she gets a fair share of your profits," she added.
Everyone exchanged glances, understanding Katrina's words, but knowing that few could live up to it. Most merchants would rather grasp for the largest profit margin, and some even consider offering a job to be a blessing in itself.
"I can't believe he's not bankrupt," Valeria muttered. "If this were in the US..."
"No one dares to cross him," Louise replied, understanding the reason all too well.
Voldemort was equally infamous in France, and who would dare cheat the man who killed Voldemort, Albert? It would be like signing their own death warrant.
"Where's Albert?" Catherine asked, more concerned about him. "When are we going to that mansion you mentioned before?"
"Albert has some matters to attend to, but he will be joining us at the mansion for the welcome banquet tonight," Isabelle said, noticing the eager anticipation on the three ladies' faces. She smiled and signaled to Katrina to start closing the shop, then led them out using the Disapparition spell.
"He really is rich," Valeria commented again, taking in the sight of the luxurious estate.
"Don't you live here?" Catherine asked, puzzled by Albert's apparent neglect of such a grand mansion, leaving it unused and seemingly abandoned.
"We live elsewhere," Isabelle smiled and opened the entrance, inviting them in.
"Why?" Louise echoed the question, unable to comprehend their reasoning. Was this place not to their liking?
"This is part of the inheritance Albert received," Isabelle explained.
"Ah, so it's not as sentimental if it's inherited," Catherine chimed in, understanding Albert's indifference towards the property. She, too, had inherited a lot of things from her grandfather, which she didn't particularly cherish.
"Mainly, it's because this place isn't very safe," Isabelle continued, leading the way forward. "There was a wizarding war in Britain recently, and living here would pose a significant safety risk."
"That's a problem," Louise acknowledged.
"The rooms have all been cleaned. Feel free to choose whichever you like," Isabelle offered.
The three ladies quickly chose their rooms and then gathered to discuss the upcoming welcome banquet, leaving the inexperienced Louise feeling awkward and embarrassed, especially when Katrina brought out a box of "artistic" clothing and some intriguing little toys. Louise's face turned beet red.
"Why don't you go first, Louise?" Isabelle smiled and waved at Louise. "Come and pick something to wear."
Catherine eyed the clothes in the box with a peculiar expression. "Did you make these yourselves?"
"Sort of. We've been hiding out for a while, and it gets pretty boring, so we found something to do to pass the time," Katrina explained. Initially, she had been similar to Louise, but over time, she had grown accustomed to it.
Valeria picked up a sheer, airy garment and held it up to Louise's body. "Have you tried these on?" she asked curiously.
"Just a few," Katrina replied, handing Louise one of the little toys. "Don't worry, Albert doesn't have any peculiar fetishes. These are actually meant for you ladies."
"For us?" Louise was taken aback, her inexperience showing as she failed to understand.
"Albert has been diligently training his body, and his physical endurance is far superior to the average person. But with three of you, it will still be quite a feat, and any more than that, you'll have to take matters into your own hands," Isabelle explained bluntly.
Catherine and Valeria, however, were more relaxed about the situation. As partners, they had no inhibitions when it came to such matters. They began rummaging through the box, selecting outfits for themselves, and even changing into them right there and then, admiring their reflections in the mirror and critiquing each other's choices.
"By the way, does Albert have any other lovers?" Louise asked shyly, tugging at her thin garment, attempting to divert the conversation.
Isabelle waved her wand and summoned a photo, which she handed to Louise. "This is Hermione Granger. She's Albert's close friend from school. She'll be returning to Hogwarts to finish her seventh year, so she's still a student. Unfortunately, she won't be able to make it to the welcome banquet due to other commitments."
"She's not as beautiful as us, and I wouldn't have thought Albert would be into that type," Valeria commented, recalling a particular outfit in the box.
"Hermione pursued him boldly. She has a bigger heart than all of you combined, so it was half-forced and half-welcomed," Isabelle clarified with a smile. "So, it would be best if you could also be proactive and passionate in showing your love for Albert. That way, he'll have something to look forward to in the future, instead of feeling like you're only doing it because of his wealth."
The three ladies exchanged glances and nodded, determined to be more enthusiastic.
Thankfully, all five of them had changed into new outfits, preventing any further embarrassment.
"I'll have one custom-made when I get back," Valeria said, eyeing the black and white outfits of the McDougal sisters with a hint of jealousy. She had to admit that they had a certain charm that she lacked.
The clothes seemed to transform them, enhancing their auras.
On the three ladies, the clothes were merely garments, and somewhat obtrusive at that.
However, on Isabelle and Katrina, the outfits were mere accessories, enhancing their natural beauty.
"Any suggestions?"
"How about this one?" Isabelle pointed to a fluffy tail.
After their little fashion show, the group returned to the living room, dressed once more in their original clothes, sipping tea and exchanging stories, offering Louise some much-needed advice to help her prepare for her upcoming "task."
"By the way, when are you planning to return?" Isabelle finally asked the question that had been hanging in the air.
"Not that we want to rush you, but with three of you, there needs to be some restraint," Katrina explained. "If you plan on staying in Britain for an extended period, you'll need to plan accordingly."
"Do you two have the same arrangement?" Catherine asked, raising an eyebrow.
"No, not at all," Katrina shook her head. "If you were staying for just three or four days, it wouldn't be an issue. But if you stay in Britain for too long, it will eventually become a group of five or six, and we must consider Albert's physical condition first and foremost."
(End of Chapter)
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