Chapter 2019: Do Not Need Your Approval

Neither Norton nor Mildred had realized there was someone else in the car besides the driver. But as soon as Jonathan appeared, they both scrutinized him.

Sharp-eyed as always, Norton immediately noted Jonathan's attire—head-to-toe low-key luxury. Even his watch, a Patek Philippe, hinted at considerable wealth. More importantly, Norton perceived the young man's innate class and elegance.

Jonathan glanced at the couple before embracing Madilyn gently, his gaze soft and loving. Madilyn's frustration instantly melted away at his touch and the warmth in his eyes.

Mildred, however, remained skeptical, turning to her husband. "Norton, I don't think we know this young man, do we?"

Norton nodded, though inwardly uncomfortable with his daughter's intimacy with another man. "Are you from Horington?"

Jonathan chuckled. "Yes. I'm from Horington, and I'm Madilyn's boyfriend. I heard her father summoned her home for a blind date, so I tagged along to see if the guy's any better than me."

Though Jonathan's voice was calm, Norton and Mildred sensed a veiled warning.

"Listen here, mister," Mildred snapped. "I don't care if you're Madilyn's boyfriend. She's here to discuss family matters. Don't you think it's rude to show up uninvited?"

Norton's eyes narrowed in fury. This was the Sheffield residence; no matter this young man's power, he had no right to disrespect him.

"Family matters? Rude?" Madilyn scoffed. "Have you made a mistake, Mildred Hinton? I've never considered you family. You dragged my mother from Horington to Xandenia. That's not only rude, it's a crime!"

Mildred was stunned by Madilyn's sharp retort. Before she could respond, Norton intervened.

"Tell me which family you're from, young man!" Norton bellowed, advancing menacingly. "You claim to be my daughter's boyfriend, but I haven't approved of you yet!"

Jonathan showed no fear, approaching the older man boldly. "Mr. Sheffield, I don't need your approval to be Madilyn's boyfriend. Besides, Madilyn hasn't acknowledged you as her father, either."

Norton froze, his eyes blazing. Undeterred, Jonathan continued, "What's the matter, Mr. Sheffield? Do you intend to use your usual Xandenian tactics on me?"