Chapter 299

“Wayne, Jace is an adult. He must face the consequences of his choices,” I said. Whether Matthew evicted him or severed ties, the responsibility rested solely with Jace.

“I understand,” Wayne sighed, “but witnessing him and Dad clashing is incredibly stressful. And if he leaves the company, it will undoubtedly impact business.”

I offered a small, knowing smile. “Isn’t that why you’re here?”

Wayne seemed surprised. “I’ve never wanted to run the company. That’s precisely why I left.”

Only he knew the full story, and it wasn't my place to judge. Still, I shared my thoughts. “Matthew must have a contingency plan. If he’s prepared to let Jace go, it’s because he’s confident the business will continue to thrive without him,” I said, maintaining a practical tone. “The world doesn’t stop for anyone.”

Wayne stared, speechless, before offering a wry smile. “I suppose I’ve been too narrow-minded.”

“You simply care too much,” I said gently.

He looked at me. “Rea, you’re different from four years ago.”

Four years ago? He had to be joking. Even children mature significantly in four years.

“That’s called growing up,” I replied with a faint smile.

Wayne sighed softly, his gaze lingering on me with a blend of emotions. “Yes, Little Rea has grown up.”

Hearing him call me “Little Rea” stirred something deep within me. After my parents’ deaths and my move to the Johnston residence, Wayne and Jace often used that nickname. It was teasing, but with an underlying warmth that made me feel accepted. It had been a long time since I’d heard it.

“Wayne, let them resolve it. It’s not healthy for you to become so involved,” I advised, offering more counsel than usual. Perhaps the old nickname unearthed memories I thought I’d buried.

Wayne nodded. “I know.”

He looked at me intently. “Are you sure you’re okay? If anything’s wrong, please tell me. I’ll always be your family. I—”

The door opened, interrupting him. Hayden entered, carrying takeout containers. He didn’t seem surprised to see Wayne; he simply gave him a brief nod.

Wayne stood. “Rea, you haven’t eaten yet?”

I started to respond, but Hayden preempted me. “We’re about to eat now.”

It was a polite way of requesting some privacy. Hayden might appear distant, but he always conveyed his meaning effectively.

Wayne understood immediately. “Alright then. Enjoy your meal. I’ll be going.”

With both of them present, the air felt thick with awkwardness. I wasn't going to stop him. “Drive safely, Wayne.”

A fleeting expression crossed Wayne’s eyes as he nodded and, on his way out, exchanged a brief glance with Hayden.

The moment Wayne left, Hayden turned to me. “Do you want to eat in bed or at the table?”

I shot him a look. “My limbs function perfectly well. The table.”

But before I could move, Hayden scooped me into his arms.

I immediately pushed against him. “I don’t need this. I can walk.”

“And what if I say I want to hold you?” His words were simple, yet they instantly flushed my cheeks.

“By the way, Mr. Hart, there’s something I—” Wayne’s voice cut through the moment as he re-entered.