Chapter 428
Adrian Sinclair’s gaze cut through the crowd.
A slender figure moved alone through the packed sea of people.
His heart tightened inexplicably.
His eyes remained fixed on the distant figure.
Chloe Valentine took it all in.
She exchanged a look with her parents, resentment flashing in her eyes.
But she quickly resumed her gentle demeanor.
“Adrian?”
She called to him softly.
There was no response.
Chloe took a deep breath.
She forced down her irritation.
“Grandpa has been waiting a long time,” she reminded him gently.
“We should go back now.”
Mr. Valentine stepped forward and patted Adrian’s shoulder.
He led the way forward.
“Let’s not keep the old man waiting.”
Adrian finally looked away.
He followed in silence.
Not a word was spoken the entire way.
Chloe attempted conversation.
He only gave brief, distant replies.
Mrs. Valentine observed their interaction.
She finally understood her daughter’s frustration.
But this marriage alliance could not be lost.
Countless people would kill for a chance to enter the Lowell family.
They had this opportunity only through the old man’s favor.
They had to seize it firmly.
The motorcade entered the Lowell Manor.
The old man was already waiting at the entrance, beaming.
“Grandpa!”
Chloe rushed over the moment she stepped out of the car.
She threw herself affectionately into the old man’s arms.
Grandpa laughed heartily.
He loved nothing more than seeing his grandson with her.
The scene was as warm as if they were real grandfather and granddaughter.
Adrian watched quietly.
But Anna Ross’s face appeared in his mind.
She had never received a single smile from Grandpa here.
The Valentines approached with gifts.
They handed them to Henry, who passed them to the servants.
Mrs. Valentine watched her daughter being doted on.
Her heart swelled with pride.
But she pretended to scold her.
“You’re a grown woman. Where are your manners?”
Chloe nuzzled against Grandpa, cooing.
“I just love Grandpa so much.”
Grandpa patted her back and laughed.
“Grandpa loves Chloe most too.”
Chloe lifted her chin triumphantly.
She glanced at her mother boastfully.
Mrs. Valentine shook her head indulgently.
Mr. Valentine stepped forward to exchange pleasantries with Grandpa.
Chloe took the chance to step back.
She reached for Adrian’s hand.
She thought he wouldn’t refuse in front of the elders.
But Adrian turned aside.
He neatly avoided her touch.
Chloe’s hand hung frozen in the air.
After a long moment, she slowly lowered it.
“Adrian, let’s go inside,” she said, forcing a smile.
“You must be tired.”
Adrian looked down at her.
Her attitude irritated him inexplicably.
This was his home.
Yet she acted like the lady of the house.
Chloe blushed under his gaze.
“Why are you looking at me like that?” she murmured coyly.