StarNovelChapter 246 "Grandpa, I don't think this is the right time," Hugh suddenly said.
Calvin hadn't expected his usually obedient grandson to challenge his decision. At that moment, his expression turned serious.
"You're already married, and you've had tto build your relationship. At this point, what's holding you back? Or are you tellingall that affection you've shown in front ofwas just an act-that the two of you are nothing more than a facade, using this marriage to stopfrom pushing you?" Hugh panicked, clenching his fists tightly.
So much thad passed, yet he still hadn't won Serena's heart. A loveless marriage was exactly where they stood now.
However, under Calvin's heavy gaze, Hugh still refused to back down. He had promised Serena that he wouldn't let their marriage be announced so soon.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt"Grandpa, Serena and I aren't putting on an act for you. The charity gala should be about charity. If we use it to announce our marriage, people might question our intentions. Charity should remain pure, without being overshadowed by personal affairs." Calvin furrowed his brows deeply. His fingers gripped the armrests so tightly that they turned slightly white. "Hugh, since when have you ever worried about being too high-profile? So what if the charity gala draws attention? Every year, the Larsons pours millions into it. We've done more good than most. Do you think that simply taking a moment to acknowledge Serena's place beside you would tarnish that?" Every word struck like a blade.
Hugh didn't care about his reputation. That was never the issue.
However, he had made a promise to Serena.
"Since Serena has married you, she's part of our family. Our family never hides from the spotlight, and we don't blend into the background. Serena is your wife, and she should stand where she belongs-for everyone to see. "People shouldn't have to whisper and speculate about her identity, giving them the chance to drag her nthrough the mud. This matter is settled. If either of you argue further, I won't hesitate to announce your marriage tonight." Calvin's sharp gaze swept over Hugh before softening as it landed on Serena. Then, he smiled at her, as if he was standing up for her.
Serena's emotions were a tangled mess. She was deeply grateful that Calvin was willing to protect her like this. And she hadn't expected Hugh to go this far against Calvin just to keep his promise.
She was a Jansen, but the Larson family felt more like home.
Hugh had nothing left to say. He could only take Serena and leave the study.
In the empty hallway, his expression turned grim.
"I'm sorry. I couldn't keep my promise." "It's fine. You don't have to apologize." Serena turned to him, wearing a faint smile. Her voice was gentle as she continued, "I could tell that both you and Grandpa were thinking of me. You just had different perspectives and stood on different sides. If anything, I should be grateful for how much you both care." Seeing that she wasn't upset or disappointed, Hugh felt relieved. He was about to suggest taking her out for a drive to clear her mind and prepare for the upcoming charity gata when she spoke again.
"It's an honor to have an ally like you." Ally...
That single word, meant as gratitude, felt more like a blade, carving a distance between them.
The flicker of warmth in Hugh's eyes disappeared in an instant. His fists clenched, then loosened, until all that remained was silence.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmTo Serena, they were nothing more than allies. They weren't even friends.
Serena noticed the sudden shift in his demeanor and the way his expression had turned cold.
vel Confused, she assumed he was still upset over Calvin's harsh words.
Wanting to give him space, she carto quickly called for a car to take them back to Crestview Bay so that he could rest. The ride was quiet. Neither of them spoke.
When they arrived at the penthouse, Serena stepped forward to unlock the doon ready to say to say goodnight. However, she caught something unusual from the corner of her eye.
The door to the stairwell was wide open, and there were a few toolm co boxes inside.
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