With lowered eyebrows, Jeremitali shifted and sat straight. He told Zachary seriously, “My grandfather’s continued work is complicated. The higher-ups won’t let him retire. He wanted to retire ten years ago, but his superior insisted he stay.” Zachary felt uneasy. He thought, Jeremiah’s grandfather must be in his seventies! How can the government be so inconsiderate?
Zachary shrugged. “Your grandfather’s had a tough time. Didn’t Mr. Clifford Chavez try to convince him to retire? At his age, he should be relaxing, gardening, bird-watching. Health is wealth, especially as he gets older.”
Jeremiah chuckled softly. “Absolutely.”
Zachary, though getting along better with Jeremiah, needed clarification. His expression turned serious. “You’re a major general, and our family is in business. Even though times have changed, families like yours likely still value social status. Let me be clear: I don’t want Yvette marrying into a family where she’ll be burdened by her in-laws. She deserves freedom and a broad world. If she marries, she shouldn’t be a high-society daughter-in-law stuck at home, doing chores. Can your family accept that?”
Zachary calmly sipped his coffee, his gaze intense. He didn't believe the Chambers family needed to cling to anyone for advancement, nor use Yvette to elevate their status. Ideally, he preferred Yvette marry into their family. Still, Jeremiah's status was undeniably prestigious.
Yvette tilted her head, her calm gaze on Zachary, noticing the deep emotion in his eyes. She paused, wondering if she should reveal more about herself to ease his worries.
Jeremiah sat upright, his expression unreadable. In a deep voice, he said, “Mr. Chambers, rest assured. My parents adore Yvette. Whatever she chooses, she can do it. You needn't worry. We’re fully committed to supporting her. We’ll never hold her back.”
Zachary was stunned. He scrutinized Jeremiah, thinking, Is he sincere? My years of experience suggest he's genuinely honest.
After a while, Zachary sighed. He felt heartbroken that his daughter was being taken from him so soon.
Finally, Zachary said, “Alright, it’s not that I’m breaking up lovers. Have a seat. I just want you to keep your word and remember your promise.”
Lucas, nearby, admired Jeremiah, thinking, This future son-in-law is remarkable. Few from his background would make such a promise.
Half an hour later, Yvette smiled, watching the two men, previously at odds, now acting like best friends. She raised an eyebrow. Zachary spoke smoothly, Jeremiah chiming in with timely remarks, soon having Zachary laughing heartily and drinking glass after glass of red wine. Zachary was clearly becoming tipsy.
Jeremiah showed no signs of inebriation; his expression remained steady. He seemed in excellent spirits.
Suddenly, Zachary stood, declaring he’d demonstrate walking a straight line. Jeremiah smiled, waiting for the entertainment.
Yvette watched from the sofa. Zachary stood unsteadily, wavering. Seeing Yvette, he was determined not to lose face. Fueled by willpower, he almost attempted backflips. Then, halfway across the room, he dramatically fell, completely drunk.
Lucas entered just in time to see Zachary fall. He hurried over. “Sir…” he called, but Zachary slept soundly. Lucas chuckled, realizing Zachary’s drinking capacity was no match for Jeremiah’s.
He turned to Yvette. “Miss, I’ll help Mr. Chambers upstairs. You and Mr. Chavez can continue your conversation.”
Yvette nodded. Jeremiah sat, looking slightly tipsy, his head lowered in silent, adorable contemplation.
After Lucas helped Zachary upstairs, Yvette saw Jeremiah watching her with large, slightly moist, pitiful eyes. She leaned in, whispering, “Cut the act. They’ve gone.”
Jeremiah rubbed his temples. “I’m not pretending. I’m truly tipsy, and I can’t walk.”
Yvette smiled mischievously. “Oh, really? I wanted to show you my room, but…”
Before she finished, Jeremiah stood. “In that case, let’s go upstairs and check it out. We still have plenty of time.”
Yvette looked at him; he looked completely sober. His eyes were clear and focused as he stood upright.
Upstairs, the door closed. Jeremiah followed Yvette in, wrapped his arms around her, nuzzling her collarbone. His breath brushed against her neck, sending a tingle. In a deep voice, he said, “I want you.”
Yvette turned, looked into his deep, dark eyes, and laughed softly. Taking the lead, she kissed him. Gentle strokes sent electric sensations to her heart. Their breaths intertwined, heating the air. He kissed her softly, then deeply, drawing her in. She kissed him until breathless, her eyes reddening. His eyes were also tinged red. Just as she was about to pass out, he released her. Breathing heavily, he rested his chin on her shoulder, whispering in a raspy voice. She tilted her head back, kissing him again urgently. He turned her, his dark eyes intense, full of terrifying desire. They spent a wonderful night together.