Chapter 135
Moonlight spilled like liquid silver, draping New York's most affluent neighborhood in serene quiet.
A black Maybach glided through the ornate iron gates.
Adrian Sinclair parked with practiced ease, his long fingers releasing the steering wheel.
He strode toward the main house, servants bowing in unison on either side.
Adrian gave a slight nod and moved through the foyer into the living room.
Grandpa stood before the massive aquarium, intently feeding the fish.
A faint smile touched Adrian's lips as he took a pinch of food from a servant's tray.
He stood beside his grandfather, gently scattering the flakes into the water.
Grandpa immediately frowned and stopped his hand. "That's enough."
"Any more and these precious fish will overeat."
He chuckled warmly, signaling for the servant to remove the tray.
Adrian laughed softly. "Grandpa, you didn't even give me a chance to impress you."
"You're the one who came home so late," Grandpa feigned sternness.
Adrian steadied the older man's arm, his voice gentle. "Company matters kept me."
"I would have returned to you sooner if possible."
Grandpa patted his hand affectionately. "You work too hard."
They walked slowly toward the sitting area, their figures a picture of harmony.
Nearby, several maids whispered among themselves.
"Mr. Sinclair is perfect. So capable and filial."
"I wonder who will be lucky enough to marry him?"
"It must be Miss Valentine. Grandpa mentions her often."
Someone suddenly hushed them nervously. "Stop talking!"
The two maids immediately lowered their heads, not daring to look up.
Adrian shot them a cold glance but ultimately held his tongue.
Grandpa settled onto the sofa, his expression turning serious. "I heard you went abroad recently?"
"Yes. A transnational project required negotiation." Adrian leaned back lazily.
"The initial talks took time, but we secured it successfully."
Grandpa nodded with satisfaction. "You always manage to surprise me."
He paused, his tone deepening. "But what concerns me most is your marriage."
"I'm getting old. My only wish is to see you settled."
Adrian sat up straight. "You're in excellent health. Don't say such things."
He deftly avoided the marriage topic, irritation flickering in his eyes.
Grandpa sighed. "Life is unpredictable. I've made my peace with that."
His voice held firm resolve. "I've decided you and Chloe should become engaged soon."
"This cannot be delayed any longer."
Adrian remained silent, his expression detached.
He didn't dislike Chloe Valentine, yet the thought of marriage filled him with inexplicable resistance.
An image of Anna Ross surfaced unbidden in his mind.
He tugged at his tie in frustration, his gaze darkening.