"You're foolish!" Nigel criticized angrily.

Feeling bad, Bella tried to speak up for Justin, but Nigel uttered, "You should've run things by me first. Why are you taking matters into your own hands? Are you trying to piss off your old man?" "Grandpa, I—"

"I wouldn't be pleased if I were in your position. I was going to get even with your old man since he didn't even keep me in the loop."

Nigel sighed frustratedly. "You should've told me so I could confront him. I could've restrained him without causing another strain in your relationship with your dad. You know how petty your dad is. He'll hold onto grudges and will never let them go."

"I know you want to protect me, Grandpa, but I'm no longer that 5-year-old. I'm a grown-up now. It's my turn to watch over you, Bella, and the Salvador Corporation."

Emotional, Justin drew close and got down on one knee to slip the slipper back on Nigel's foot. "Don't worry about me. I can resolve my issues. You just retired, so you should be enjoying your life instead of fussing over me."

"Sigh... That's true. I'm just an old, useless fart," Nigel lamented, his eyes welling up.

Justin felt a lump in his throat. "Don't say that, Grandpa."

Bella took notice of Nigel's sorrow, a reflection of his internal conflict. He yearned to protect Justin, but his age made him realize the limitations of his power.

nearly choked with

be the trial," Nigel said

exchanged

I prepared for the kids, Matt!" Nigel shouted out loud. He seemed

are,

brought two gifts over and gave one to Bella and the other to Justin. Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the FindNøvᴇl.nᴇt website on

them

gift, Bella eagerly opened the

featured two delicate butterflies embroidered onto

work of Febb from Helix Couture!" Bella ran her fingers

you know

Bella the thumbs up. "I want you to break

a waistcoat of the same fabric as Bella's. He did

hers, Grandpa, but what am I supposed to do

UMS

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