Kieran’s gaze was dark and icy, his thin lips pressed into a line as he watched her calmly. Beside him, Rose clung affectionately to his arm. Kieran’s son stood behind him, clutching his father’s leg while pouting and eyeing Alarieka with wary suspicion. This group had been making a scene for some time; no one knew when the three Argents had arrived or how much they’d overheard.

Alarieka’s voice remained flat: “Mr. Argent. Mrs. Argent.”

Rose’s lips curved with an amused glint: “Alarieka brought her boyfriend home. Planning to introduce him to Grandpa?” All eyes fixed on Alarieka. Alarieka stared directly at Rose’s smile. The implication was crystal clear. Rose had likely feared Alarieka might steal Kieran. Now, learning she had a “boyfriend,” relief washed over Rose – one less threat to her marriage.

Alarieka arched a brow at Kieran, her tone cool: “Pity. My own grandfather died shortly after I was born.”

Dead silence fell. The crowd gaped, shock and disbelief written across their faces. Everyone knew exactly whose grandfather Rose meant: Wallace Argent. Alarieka’s words were nothing short of a public slap to the Argent patriarch’s face. Ignoring their stunned expressions, Alarieka continued: “But given the chance, I’d certainly take him to visit the gravesite.” The room held its breath, utterly still. This was Argent territory. None dared voice such thoughts, let alone intervene.

Rose nearly pitied Alarieka’s foolishness, her eyes softening with condescension: “Alarieka, you’re clever. You know exactly which grandfather I mean.”

Alarieka’s lips curled: “Even if I wanted to acknowledge him, would he accept me? Everyone knows I was kicked out years ago. What right do I have to call him Grandpa now?”

Kieran’s eyes narrowed.

Alarieka met his gaze: “You were there that day, Mr. Argent. Surely you remember me being thrown out to a rental apartment?” Kieran remained silent.

Shiyao murmured: “Alarieka.”

Alarieka flashed Kieran a smile before extending her hand to Shiyao: “Give me the gift.” He’d held it since they arrived. Taking the package, she approached Rose and offered it.

“Got so caught up talking I almost forgot. A small anniversary gift for you both. Nothing fancy – hope it’s not beneath you.”

Rose’s eyes crinkled with a smile as she accepted the gift. “We’re family, no need for formalities.”

Alarieka spoke softly, “With gifts come blessings. May you share lasting happiness.” Her gaze locked with Kieran’s as she added meaningfully, “I trust Mr. Argent remembers our promise.”

Rose’s smile faltered momentarily. “What promise did you two make, Kieran?”

Alarieka gave a mysterious smile. “Why not ask Mr. Argent yourself, Ms. Whitaker? If he won’t tell you, neither can I.”

Rose drew a breath, forcing her smile wider. “It’s fine. Kieran knows his limits. I trust him.”

Alarieka arched an eyebrow. “How remarkably devoted you two are.”

“Alarieka.” Kieran’s voice cut through. She acknowledged with a hum.

“Grandfather expects you in the study,” he stated coolly.

Alarieka nodded. “Understood.” Turning to Shi Yao, she said, “Let’s go.”

Shi Yao’s eyes lit up instantly. “I’ll come with you.”

Kieran’s brow furrowed, his dark eyes sweeping over Shi Yao. “He stays.”

Shi Yao’s expression darkened, his glare icy as it clashed with Kieran’s. Electric tension crackled between them. Alarieka raised an eyebrow. “Why? He’s not an outsider.”

“Has romance addled your judgment?” Kieran’s frown deepened.

“Not particularly,” she replied.

His obsidian eyes bored into her. This concerned the critical Black-White Rabbit game rights.

Alarieka turned to soothe Shi Yao. “Wait here. I won’t be long.” Shi Yao’s face visibly shadowed. After struggling silently, he leaned in to whisper bitterly, “Hurry back. I’ll wait.”

Alarieka patted his head. “Good boy.”