The restaurant, known for its upscale barbecue offerings, quickly presented them with an assortment of premium meats and vegetables.


    As a waiter stepped forward to assist with the grill, Nathan assertively took the utensils from her.


    “Please, I’ve got this.


    ”


    His tone left no room for argument, suggesting he believed his grilling skills surpassed those of the restaurant staff.


    Kyson, seizing the moment as Nathan focused on the grill, gazed at Lucinda from across the table, engaging in light conversation.


    “I remember your love for barbecue from when you were young.


    It seems some things never change.


    I reminisced about those horseback rides across the grasnds, the pics, and how you always enjoyed themb I grilled.


    ”Têxt belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Lucinda cautiously looked towards Nathan, checking for any reaction, before she thought of replying.


    Nathan, however, beat her to it.


    “The past may hold its charms, but Lucinda lives in the now, looking eagerly towards what’s ahead.


    She’s taken quite a liking to my cooking.


    I’d say her culinary affections are securely with me, wouldn’t you agree?”


    A shadow of sadness flickered in Kyson’s eyes as he bowed his head, choosing silence over words.


    Lucinda, picking up on the tension, lightened the mood with a yful remark, “Well, it’s worth mentioning I was the one who taught Nate his way around the kitchen.


    That counts for something.


    ”


    Kyson, feeling the distance between him and the warmth shared by the couple, emptied his drink in a single draught.


    With a smile tinged with resignation, he offered his blessing.


    “Since your heart has made its choice, my only wish is for your happiness to be evesting.


    Mr.


    Payne, she’s in your care now.


    And remember, if ever you find yourself unable to stand by her, know that as the godfather of Colby and Destinee, I’ll always be there to support and protect her and kids.


    ”


    At Kyson’s earnest deration, Nathan felt a sudden tension grip his arm, the weight of the responsibility and the unspoken rivalry hanging heavily in the air.


    Nathan looked up, his eyes locking with Kyson’s across the table, his voice colder than before, revealing his clear distaste.


    “Do you think too highly of yourself? If I can’t protect them, what makes you think you can?”


    Kyson had taken control of the Shaw family, thanks in part to Nathan’s support.


    The Shaw Group was still growing, and Kyson would need Lucinda and Nathan’s help for quite some time.


    Nathan wielded considerable influence in Cadiered; he could sway the entire country with a simple gesture.


    Next to him, Kyson’s power seemed insignificant.


    Nathan had put up with Kyson’s indirect criticisms, responding with subtle digs of his own.


    However, he had reached his limit this time.


    Given Kyson’s role as godfather to Colby and Destinee, Nathan held back his harsher words.


    Kyson looked a bit pale, a hint of self-mockery in his eyes.


    “I apologize.


    I overstepped.


    It’s clear that with you here, Lucinda and the kids are in the best hands.


    ”


    Nathan’s irritation eased a little with this apology.


    He put some freshly grilled pork belly into Kyson’s bowl, deliberately not serving Lucinda first.


    “Eat up, and don’t say we haven’t treated you well.


    Maybe this piece of meat will keep you quiet.


    ”


    Kyson felt a mix of embarrassment and helplessness in response to Nathan’s bluntment.


    Lucinda’sughter filled the room as she watched the exchange.


    “In Cadier, it’s a rare treat to enjoy meat grilled by Nate.


    Kyson, have as much as you like; it’s exceptional.


    ”


    Kyson simply nodded, offering a grateful smile and choosing to stay silent.


    Lucinda then turned her attention to Noelle, catering to her specific preferences.