Chapter 222
His visit was far from innocent.
Though he claimed he was here to see Anna Ross.
Adrian Sinclair knew better.
He toyed with his phone idly.
"Grandpa, Uncle Howard will visit in the next couple of days."
The old man's expression soured.
But this was his son.
He couldn't avoid him forever.
"Alright. I understand."
"Adrian, you mentioned issues with the branch office last time."
"How did it go?" Grandpa's smile faded, turning serious.
Adrian's eyes darkened.
"Grandpa, the investigation into the branch has been halted."
The old man thought he was sparing his feelings.
"Adrian, I told you to proceed without hesitation."
"Don't worry about my reputation."
"Just handle it impartially."
"Those who make mistakes must face consequences."
"Otherwise, how will they learn?" His voice was firm and authoritative.
Adrian gave a slight nod.
His decision to stop wasn't for that reason.
If she hadn't begged him so desperately.
He would never have called off the investigation.
The memory of her abandoning her dignity.
Sent a wave of bitterness through him.
He wasn't even sure what he resented anymore.
Grandpa's low voice cut through his thoughts.
"Give serious consideration to the marriage with Chloe."
"The Valentines are pressing hard."
"They called again yesterday, hinting strongly about it."
Seeing his silence, Grandpa added.
"Chloe isn't a bad girl."
"Our families have been close for generations."
"Dragging this on isn't right."
Adrian's expression shifted almost imperceptibly.
"I understand, Grandpa."
"I will give it proper thought."
"And give you a satisfactory answer."
Grandpa finally relaxed.
"Hearing you say that puts my mind at ease."
He rose slowly and looked out the window.
Adrian moved to assist him, but was waved away.
"I can still move on my own."
"It's late. You've had a long day."
"Get some rest."
Adrian withdrew his hand helplessly.
He knew his grandfather's proud nature all too well.
As he left, Grandpa's gaze fell on the cigarette box.
He paused for a moment, but said nothing.
Then gently closed the door.
He remembered his grandson started smoking after that heartbreak.
He hadn't seen him smoke since taking over the company.
Was something troubling him again?
He sighed and turned away.
Young people's affairs were beyond his control now.
The room fell quiet again.
Adrian stretched his long legs, leaning back on the sofa.
He lit a cigarette.
The smoke rings dissipated slowly into the air.
The marriage with Chloe Valentine was the last thing he wanted to consider.
But refusing Grandpa was difficult.
He understood the old man's predicament.
Yet everything he desired.
He had never needed anyone's help to obtain.