Before Fors could react, Hobart continued, "I took a look just now. The original furnishings are still there, so the place only needs some repairs. It won't take much time.
"Once the railway and villa design teams arrive, they can move in first. The Lord's Manor will cover their meals and lodging. Then I'll have Roy help you find staff and a manager. You can start making money as soon as you take over.
"Once the future grand dock is back in operation, given this location, the restaurant and hotel should bring in several dozen Gold Lire a week..."
"Wait, wait, wait..." Fors said. "I can't accept this! We, we..."
We're a contract couple. Have you forgotten? You've given me properties, so how are they supposed to be divided once our contract marriage agreement ends?
Hobart had long prepared an excuse. "I've thought about it. As Lady Lord, you naturally need some pocket money. A few dozen Gold Lire may not be much, but it should be enough for your spending money.
"If you find Gold Lire inconvenient to use, you can exchange them for Gold Pounds with me, according to the current exchange rate between our two countries."
Fors said, "But..."
"Take it," Hobart said. "I can't exactly let you spend your own money in Jeffrey Town.
"It's only a few dozen Gold Lire, not some huge sum. Going back and forth over it would be far too polite."
Fors immediately had no idea how to refuse. Before she could continue objecting, Hobart had already called Roy over and put the matter into effect. From then on, the accounts for the hotel and restaurant would be handed over to "Lady Lord."
Fors felt as though she had somehow ended up with two more properties. And if they could each