Just past noon, a sleek Rolls-Royce Phantom glided into the courtyard of the estate.
Lysander stepped out of the car, his tailored black suit exuding elegance. With a casual flick of his long fingers, he adjusted the silver cufflinks and strode towards the study.
Inside, his grandfather was immersed in writing.
Grandfather, Lysander called, approaching with ease. He picked up the kettle from the stove and poured a cup of tea for the old man.
His grandfather continued to write, ignoring both Lysander and the steaming cup of tea on the desk. The only sound in the room was the soft scratch of pen on paper.
Once he finished writing, the old man set down his pen and finally looked up.
So, unless I summon you, you’ll never remember to drop by and see an old man like me?
Of course not, Lysander replied with a chuckle. You’re always on my mind.
Ha, spare me the sweet talk, his grandfather retorted with a sideways glance. Is it really me you’re thinking about every day, or is it some young lady? I heard you’ve been quite the charmer lately.
Lysander feigned a stern expression, jokingly saying, Who’s been gossiping to you, trying to stir up trouble?
With a sardonic smile, his grandfather slapped the table. Don’t try to smooth-talk me. Besides your mother, who else would leak your escapades?
Lysander, his grandfather continued, more sternly, I don’t care what you do outside, but remember this: don’t bring any scandalous offspring into our Montgomery lineage!
Lysander smiled reassuringly. I know my limits, Grandfather.
The old man’s voice sharpened. You know your limits? If you did, your wife wouldn’t be threatening to divorce you!
The study fell into a tense silence.
Lysander’s smile didn’t waver. After a brief pause, he replied, That’s not her decision to make.
…
As Lysander left the study, he straightened his suit, now slightly crumpled from the encounter. Just as he was about to leave, the study door opened again.
Marshall, the butler, handed him a long wooden box. From the master. Also, young Adrian caught a chill last night and is resting in his room.
Lysander acknowledged with a smile, accepting the box but showing no intention of visiting Adrian.
Returning to the car, he instructed Leonard to drive to the hospital. As they drove, Lysander casually opened the box to find a rolled-up parchment inside, bearing the calligraphy of his grandfather’s hand: Family Harmony Brings Prosperity.
With a gentle smile, Lysander shook his head, rolled the parchment back up, and tucked it away.
Halfway to their destination, his phone rang. Lysander answered, his tone tender. Giselle, what’s the matter?
After listening to her, he reassured her softly, then instructed Leonard to change course towards the Harvey estate.