Chapter 2002: A Stern Warning

Upon leaving the research institute, Roxanne and Lucian collected their children from school. The school management sincerely apologized for the recent events. They explained that the bribed vice principal had been dismissed, the four bullies expelled, and that the school was revising its disciplinary policies. Lucian and Roxanne accepted the apology grudgingly, acknowledging the school's generally conducive learning environment. They declined an invitation to dinner and returned home.

At the manor gates, they found Grant pacing anxiously. Roxanne, however, was no longer swayed by his apparent distress. Estella recognized him. Lucian glanced at Roxanne, questioning whether they should stop. Archie and Benny watched from the car, curious about their grandfather's intentions. Roxanne shook her head, resolute in her refusal to be manipulated. Lucian told the children they were going home, promising to address Grant later.

Grant watched the car drive away, hesitating before stepping aside. Roxanne averted her gaze. Once inside the manor, Lucian instructed Roxanne to take the children to their rooms. He volunteered to speak with Grant, reasoning that daily confrontations would be difficult to explain to the children. The butler drove Lucian to the gate.

Lucian approached Grant, his former cordiality replaced by indifference. "Mr. Jarvis, what is your purpose? Are you planning to give the children more presents? They require nothing from you."

Lucian expected panic, but Grant appeared numb, his eyes vacant. "Lucian… there's something I want to tell you," Grant stammered, his voice helpless.

Lucian's brow furrowed. "Mr. Jarvis, I believe you're mistaken. If you need money, you should speak with Mr. Crawford!" He openly alluded to Grant's collaboration with Jonas. "Is Mr. Crawford's millions insufficient? How much do you truly want?" Lucian smirked, awaiting Grant's reaction.

Panic finally flickered in Grant's eyes. "Y-You knew?"

"Nothing in Horington escapes me. Drop the charade. Now that the children acknowledge you as their grandfather, you are forbidden from appearing here again!" Lucian's threat was unmistakable.