Hendrix had been swamped with all sorts of stuff these past couple of days, so he didn’t show up.


    He handed off the driving duties to someone else for the time being.


    The Walsh Manor had a gloomy atmosphere all around.


    The moment Domenic stepped inside, he spotted an unexpected visitor lounging on the sofa.


    Rupert was d in dark attire, sporting a kind smile on his face.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    However, his crooked eyebrows betrayed a hint of cunning and malice.


    When he caught sight of Domenic’s arrival, he raised his head and eximed, “Well, well, well! If it isn’t the ever-busy Domenic gracing us with his presence.


    ”


    Ignoring Rupert’s sarcastic remarks, Domenic headed straight for Jordan and greeted him respectfully, “Grandpa, I’m back.


    ”


    At the sound of his voice, Carole poked her head out from the second floor.


    Spotting Domenic, she quicklyposed herself, rushed downstairs with a beaming smile, and eximed, “Domenic, you’re finally home!”


    Domenic nodded subtly.


    Seated on the sofa, Jordan appeared rather grim.


    He let out a heavy snort and barked, “How dare you show your face to me! Your actions have brought shame upon me!”


    Sensing Jordan’s impending outburst, Carole hurriedly dropped to her knees in front of him, massaging his legs and soothing him.


    “Please let bygones be bygones.


    And don’t me Domenic any longer.


    He’s been swamped with work.


    I understand… Please don’t get upset, it’s bad for your health.


    ”


    Rupert sneered, his words dripping with scorn.


    “My nephew is lucky to have such a thoughtful fiancée.


    ” But he’s been absent for days, showing no concern for anyone.


    I’m curious, what could possibly be so important that it kept him away from his own engagement party?”


    Domenic knew better than to engage with Rupert’s veiled usations.


    His priority now was to appease his grandfather.


    “Grandpa, I sincerely apologize for my thoughtlessness regarding the engagement party.


    ”


    Domenic offered a heartfelt apology to Jordan, and thetter’s countenance softened.


    Turning to Carole, Domenic asked, “Carole, do you hold any grudge against me?”


    Surprise flickered across Carole’s face.


    A warmth bloomed in her chest.


    She thought perhaps there was still a spark of care beneath Domenic’s stoic exterior.


    “It’s alright.


    I know you’re busy and dedicated to your career.


    I bear no grudge.


    I’ll take good care of your grandpa on your behalf.


    ”


    With just a few words, Domenic regained control of the situation.


    Rupert raised an eyebrow and offered an insincere smile.


    “Indeed, he’s devoted to his career.


    Though he didn’t get engaged this time, his trip abroad wasn’t in vain.


    He aplished something significant, even neglecting his closest kin.


    ”


    As he spoke, he pped mockingly and continued, “I must say, I’m impressed.


    ”


    Domenic’s expression grew grave upon hearing this.


    He knew that Rupert was maligning him in front of his grandpa.


    Jordan, too, sensed the underlying message in Rupert’s words.


    He cast a nce at Carole and instructed, “Carole, go back to your room for now.


    ”


    Observing the growing seriousness of the situation, Carole nced at the three of them, then fixed her gaze on Domenic.


    She was perceptive enough not to pry any further.


    Nodding in acknowledgment, she replied and made her way upstairs.