Magic Academy's Bastard Instructor

Chapter 86: Irregular [1]

Chapter 86: Irregular [1]

"No words can express how deeply apologetic I am right now, Astrea."

Inside the Gambino Mansion, Vincenzo Gambino was profusely apologizing to Vanitas.

Vanitas, however, couldn't exactly blame him. Vincenzo had been reasonable enough to give him a chance to explain himself. 

The real issue was that Vanitas had left without a word, allowing the misunderstanding to happen. 

But in the first place, clearing it without Anastasia present was impossible.

"Anastasia must've told you everything," Vanitas said. "As an equal in this partnership, it saddens me to see how little trust you placed in me, Sir Gambino."

Guilt-tripping. 

That had been his intention all along. To subtly shift the dynamics of their so-called equal partnership in his favor, creating an imbalance that would benefit him in the long run.

While the mafia was known for its cold-blooded nature, Vincenzo Gambino had already shown the Astrea Family's importance to them.

"If there's anything I can do to compensate you, please tell me. Name your price."

Vanitas's eyes briefly flicked to Anastasia before returning to Vincenzo. 

"My family estate, Sir Gambino, has been turned upside down. While refurbishing could be an option, I'd like to use this opportunity for you to show just how much the Astrea name truly means to you."

Vincenzo furrowed his brows. "What exactly are you asking for, Astrea?"

"A new estate."

"...A new estate?" Vincenzo repeated, processing the request.

"Yes," Vanitas nodded. "The Astrea estate holds nothing but bad memories for me and my sister. She's already moved out to live in the university dormitories for that exact reason."

Vanitas's gaze lowered as if the memories of the past was too much to bear. 

"Ever since my father's death, I can't walk through those corridors without feeling a heavy burden on my heart. I've even spoken to my sister about it, and she's excited about the idea of a new home. But securing land is impossible with the current competitive market, and I simply don't have the time."

"...."

Vincenzo listened intently as Vanitas continued.

"Between my duties as a professor, overseeing my sister's affairs, and managing what little remains of the Astrea's, I can't focus on construction, budgeting, surveying land, permits, or the other endless details of building a home. It's overwhelming."

Vanitas leaned back slightly, as if exhausted by the mere thought of it all. 

"That's why I'm turning to you, Sir Gambino. With your resources and connections, you could make this possible."