Chapter 620

"I'm not a visitor. I'm Wilfred Lodge's grandson-in-law and part of the family. I should pay my respects." He started to walk forward.

Jonathan, however, blocked his path with his cane. "I heard about your marriage, but it seems to have been only a verbal agreement, without a wedding. Therefore, you're not officially a member of the Lodge family. We have rules, and as you're on Lodge property, you must obey them!"

Alexander began to speak, but Lily winked at him. "Granduncle Jonathan has a point. Wait here, have some tea. I'll pay my respects to Grandpa; I'll be quick."

Alexander understood the unspoken warning in her eyes. The atmosphere at the Lodge family home felt wrong—worse than they'd anticipated. They weren't sure what Henry had done, or how he'd managed to sway the elders, particularly Granduncle Jonathan.

The mourning hall was inside; the living room, outside, separated only by a wall. If necessary, Alexander could intervene from the outside. He didn't press the issue, merely whispering, "Don't be too sad."

Lily nodded and entered the hall. The scene inside was far more somber than outside. The entire family was present: elders on one side, younger family members and disciples on the other. Justin sat closest to the casket. Lily was surprised; she'd assumed he was elsewhere. As the eldest grandson, his presence there was expected. Yet, Henry's earlier questioning about Justin's lack of reaction lingered in her mind.

Calming herself, Lily gazed at the memorial. Her grandfather's smiling photograph seemed to belie his death. "Grandpa, I'm back," she choked out, tears welling.

Just as she started forward with a bouquet, Jonathan stopped her. He'd been watching with cold eyes, remaining silent until she reached for the casket. Then, he spoke: "Lily, you don't deserve to do this."

She'd anticipated a confrontation, but fear didn't hold her back. Except…

Her gaze fell on Justin, sitting silently, avoiding her eyes. She couldn't read his expression. His earlier warning against her return, however, suggested he still cared.

"Granduncle Jonathan, what do you mean?" she asked calmly.

"Did you give your grandfather the scented candle he used in his room? Did you make it?" Jonathan's gaze was sharp, accusatory.