Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

Chapter 531: Christmas Eve

Aurora watched as the snow outside grew heavier, blanketing the city in a festive cheer. Tonight, she and Julian were heading to Montgomery Manor for dinner.

Although Oswaldo claimed Christmas was meaningless and insisted it was just a simple family meal, the sight that greeted them upon arrival said otherwise. Two large Christmas trees stood in the front yard, adorned with colorful lights and ornaments. Typically, Christmas trees were placed indoors, but Oswaldo had chosen to put these grand trees outside, adding a unique flair.

Aurora noticed small cards hanging from the trees. Most of them bore wishes like, "May my granddaughter be safe and happy." As people aged, their hearts seemed to grow lonelier. Aurora knew she was often caught up with work and rarely spent time with her grandfather, a thought that filled her with guilt.

The butler was already waiting at the door. Aurora quickly shed her coat and gloves upon entering and, with a joyful bounce, ran to find her grandfather.

"Grandpa..."

Before she could even get close, she heard his voice.

"Checkmate! Let's see how you'll recover from this!" Oswaldo sounded particularly pleased.

"Grandpa, you're playing chess?" Aurora stepped closer and was surprised to see Joaquin sitting across from him. These two had always been at odds, their fiery tempers clashing constantly. Seeing them sitting together for a game of chess was nothing short of astonishing.

you doing here?" His voice faltered as he spotted Joaquin, momentarily stunned. Joaquin glanced at the gifts in Julian's hands. From childhood to adulthood, Julian had always been at odds with him. Yet here he was, bringing gifts for Oswaldo. Joaquin couldn't help

gifts for outsiders.

you mean by 'outsiders'? The kids are engaged!" Oswaldo shot him a glare. Some habits never changed-these two

walked over to Oswaldo. "Grandpa, you're really good at chess. It looks like you're

possibly beat

the board. "But this isn't a deadlock. Try this

again!" Oswaldo moved his rook with

countered. "How

little rascal! How can you side with him?" Oswaldo huffed in mock anger. His

two keep playing. I'll make some tea for you." Knowing her grandfather's

tea," Oswaldo grumbled, his temper easing slightly. "Of course. Joaquin, what would you

is fine," Joaquin replied, momentarily stunned by her warmth. He marveled at how close Aurora and Oswaldo were. In families like theirs, younger generations often feared the patriarchs. Years

affection. Joaquin couldn't help but envy their bond. He thought