The Million-Dollar Heart by Rebecca Ryan

Using his cane with a metallic bottom, Oliver smacked it hard against Asher's knee.

Thud!

Already unstable on his feet, Asher crumpled forward, kneeling directly in Jasper's direction!

Asher's eyes widened, full of disbelief.

Oliver, without sparing him a glance, bowed slightly toward Jasper, "Jasper, forgive my lack of guidance. My apologies for the trouble my son has caused. Rest assured, upon our return, I'll discipline him strictly. We've overstayed our welcome today. Should you need anything in the future, do not hesitate to call me. I'll take my leave now so as not to disturb your afternoon respite."

Jasper raised an eyebrow, momentarily unsure of what play Oliver was staging.

Just moments before, Oliver seemed ready to cripple his sons without a second thought, but now he was puffing himself up like an indignant wolf!

But to leave such a mess and just walk away?

leave, he said calmly, "Hold on. Oliver, your son came here today to provoke the Perez family without a word of reason. I am his elder, and he dared to shout at me, pointing fingers. We haven't settled this account yet, and you think you can just leave like that? You're belittling the Perez family. He's

"And what would

gaze coldly falling on Asher, who was still reeling from Oliver's scolding. Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the Find ɴøᴠel.nᴇt website on

know I'm not in good health. His visit today truly frightened me. I think it's only fair that he apologizes by bowing his head. Isn't that reasonable?" "Jasper, you're crossing the

At Jasper's words, Asher finally snapped back to reality. Clenching his teeth, he bellowed at Jasper, losing all semblance of his previously feigned gentlemanly demeanor, resembling

of composure, "Jasper, that seems a bit much. Asher

He truly didn't want to waste more time with the Perez family. After a pause, he continued, "How about this? In consideration of our many years of acquaintance, grant me this favor and let this incident slide. Should you need anything in the future, the Grimshaw family will not

unimpressed. He snorted with disdain, his head held high, uncompromising, "Don't talk to me about what may or may not be. What good is your favor if you renege on it later? I want his apology today! Oliver, don't talk to me about commanding respect. I am the head of the Perez family, his elder. What's so shameful about bowing and admitting wrong to an elder? Or is

ears, felt like he was in

regaining his senses,

slumped onto Yuri's shoulder, "You see? This explains why Asher had the guts

you talking about, bro? I don't think Mr. Oliver Grimshaw is the type to be hypocritical or sanctimonious. He'll surely handle this fairly. Otherwise, how will we stand among the ancient warrior lineages? People will say the Grimshaw family preys on the weak. As a venerable member of

ancient warrior lineage would

secrets. Then, the Grimshaw would become enemies of

family's word, especially since Asher's public challenge had

Otherwise, Oliver wouldn't have traveled all

that's what

kick Asher if not for the circumstances, Oliver thought,

share honor and disgrace. Though you've forsaken the ancestral covenant of seclusion, I still hold some regard for your father. So, today's events were indeed due to Asher's recklessness. It's only right for him to apologize to

again, his voice laced with contempt, "You good-for-nothing, what are

"Dad!"