At that moment, Howard eagerly anticipated Helena’s positive response. If she epted his proposal and joined the Rothschild family through marriage, it would effectively address the one notable gap in the Rothschild legacy over the past two centuries.


    However, Helena internally scoffed at Howard’s suggestion and dismissed it entirely. Yet, as she recalled the task assigned to her by Charlie Wade, she hesitated and replied, “Mr. Howard, I came here to visit you, and I have thought about these matters. Your unexpected proposal has truly taken me by surprise.”


    Howard quickly responded, “Your Majesty, this proposal… it’s not something that needs to be decided immediately. You can focus on your exams… take your time to think it over. Whether it’s three years or five years, the Rothschild family is willing to wait…”


    Helena bit her lip, ncing between Howard and Steve, deliberately feigning indecision.


    An astute strategist like Howard, despite his hemiplegia, remained sharp-minded. He turned to his son Steve and said, “Steve, why don’t you and the doctor step outside for a moment? I need to have a private conversation with Her Majesty the Queen.”<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    Understanding his father’s intent to push for a more vigorous approach, Steve quickly replied, “Sure, Dad!”


    He promptly ushered the doctor out, reminding Howard, “Father, there’s plenty of time. You can take your time talking with Her Majesty the Queen. I’ll make sure everyone outside keeps a distance of at least 20 meters. Don’t worry.”


    Howard nodded with approval, signaling Steve to leave with a flick of his hand.


    Steve mmed the door behind him and quickly ensured that everyone, including himself, stayed at least twenty meters away.


    Once they were alone, Helena wasted no time. She looked at Howard on the hospital bed and stated, “Mr. Howard, the main purpose of my visit today is to discuss a business matter with you.”


    Unaware that Helena was referring to her own agenda, Howard mistakenly thought she was interested in marrying into the Rothschild family to leverage better terms for herself.


    He responded impulsively, “As long as Her Majesty the Queen is willing to marry into the Rothschild family, all terms can be negotiated!”<fn8fc4> Newest update provided by ?ovelFind</fn8fc4>


    Helena shook her head and replied calmly, “I have no intention of marrying into any family—now or ever. Although I have be the Queen of Northern Europe, my personal marriage decisions are independent of the Nordic royal family. I will only marry for love, or I won’t marry at all; there is no other option. Therefore, Mr. Howard, please refrain from discussing marriage in the future.”


    Howard was taken aback by Helena’s outright rejection. His earlier confidence and self-importance were instantly shattered, leaving him feeling a surge of anger.


    He retorted with irritation, “If Her Majesty the Queen is not interested in marrying into the Rothschild family, then what is the purpose of your visit today? Are you here to discuss some form of coboration with us? You… you don’t seem qualified enough for that!”