Grandfather’s Conditions

Chapter 415

“Get some rest and start prepping for tomorrow’s speech,” Johnathan said.

The final day of the summit was approaching, and it would be Sierra’s turn to speak as the university’s representative. She was set to present her team’s research findings–a showcase of their cutting-edge work. Tomorrow’s session would lean more toward open dialogue, and given how novel Sierra’s research was, it was easy to imagine just how many questions would be thrown her way.

Sierra understood what he meant and nodded, following the butler to her room. Only then did Johnathan wheel himself toward his grandfather’s study.

The butler proved to be quite chatty, explaining the estate’s long history as they walked.

“This place is several centuries old, shaped by wars and hardship. During the worst of it, half the manor burned down, but it was fully restored afterward. Every head of the family has lived here. The old master enjoys his peace and doesn’t like too many people around, so guests almost never stay here. The only exception is New Year’s Eve, when the whole family gathers. Well–Mr. Simon is the one true exception.”

He sighed. “Mr. Simon was such a sweet child, grew quiet over the years. Lately though, he’s been looking better.”

The butler cast a glance at Sierra. “Ms. Sierra, it’s all thanks to you. With you by his side, even Madam in heaven can rest easy.”

Sierra couldn’t get a read on him, so she stayed quiet and just listened.

When they reached Johnathan’s room, she frowned slightly. The decor was stark and minimal, with an oppressive feel to it.

The butler noticed and quickly explained, “This room was designed according to Mr. Simon’s preferences–back when he was still in his teens. The master suggested changing it later, but Mr. Simon refused. Said he didn’t spend much time here and there was no need to redecorate. Thank you.”

Sierra nodded.

The butler left her alone. She looked around the room but couldn’t find any childhood photos of Johnathan, a bit of a letdown. What she did see were books he had read at the time – heavy, serious works. Clearly, his youth had been just as heavy.

She sighed softly, put the books back, and headed to take a shower.

Meanwhile, the study was filled with tension as grandfather and grandson faced each other.

Wayne was the first to speak.

“I know about what happened with Jose. You made your decision, so I won’t interfere.”

He had suspected Jose might be involved in his grandson’s injury, and a little digging confirmed the connection–he had been in contact with Quinn.

But since Johnathan chose not to pursue it, Wayne didn’t push either. Susie had already taken care of it–Jose had been sent away, and there was little chance he’d be back in Capital City again.

It was a pity. Jose was capable. If only he’d committed himself to helping Johnathan, he would’ve been a great asset.

Pushing the regret aside, Wayne continued.

“I’ve been trying to find out who’s behind all this, but up to now, I’ve got nothing.”

“Johnathan, you know what that means.”

Of course Johnathan did. If the Wynn family’s resources couldn’t trace the mastermind, it meant the enemy was deeply hidden–and powerful.

“I know your temper, but now’s not the time to act out of pride.”

“Johnathan, your grandfather… is getting old.”

What had happened to him last time had truly shaken Wayne.

Johnathan stayed silent, seeing a rare tenderness in the old man’s eyes.

Since his mother’s death, the only sliver of care he’d received came from his grandfather–but it had always been scarce. Wayne was the head of the Wynn family. In his world, family interests came before everything.

This sudden softening might be a result of recent threats–or something else entirely. Johnathan couldn’t say for sure. All he could do was state plainly,

“Grandpa, Sierra is my bottom line. No one touches her.”

They could use him, hurt him–that didn’t matter. But Sierra was off limits.

Wayne looked at him deeply. “I understand. Don’t worry, I won’t touch her.”

He had once thought Sierra’s influence on Johnathan was too strong. But when he saw the way she’d lost control during Johnathan’s accident, he’d been moved–just a little.

In families like theirs, genuine emotion was rare.

So be it. With their status, there was no need for arranged marriages or strategic alliances. He could accept the two of them being together–but only if Sierra proved she was capable of becoming the matriarch of the Wynn family.

He had already made up his mind. During her stay, he would arrange for Sierra to be subtly taught the appropriate etiquette. But it would have to be done gently.