Chapter 176

"Das," Grayson called Dominick, revealing the man’s paternity. Confused murmurs rippled through the Sullivan family. Christina and Brittany exchanged bewildered glances. Brittany, still young, felt a pang of apprehension at the thought of instant step-motherhood.

Gregory, ever the smooth operator, smiled. "Your son, Mr. Vanderbilt?"

Dominick nodded. "Yes, this is Grayson. These are your grandparents."

The words hung in the air, a soft, fluffy pillow of shock. Gregory and Christina were speechless, stunned into blissful silence. Had they heard right? Dominick was acknowledging the Sullivans, introducing them as Grayson's grandparents.

Christina squeezed Brittany’s hand, excitement bubbling over. Brittany’s eyes widened, her heart soaring. A blush warmed her cheeks; she envisioned herself as Mrs. Vanderbilt, the head of the family. This had to mean Dominick planned to marry her. Why else would he bring his son to meet her parents?

Gary and the others, initially shocked, shifted into nervous agitation. Gary's unease was palpable. He'd envisioned Brittany as a fleeting indulgence, a high-priced plaything. He’d never imagined a Sullivan marrying into the Vanderbilts. Dominick’s blatant acknowledgment of the family—a complete reversal of expectations—left him reeling.

The Jackmans were equally stunned, Keith and Marianne regretting their earlier arrogance. Baron's inappropriate comments now loomed large; if Brittany held a grudge, they were doomed. Their only hope rested with Paisley and a potential marriage to Baron, forging a union that could salvage their standing. Keith frantically texted Baron, urging him to secure the match.

Grayson, however, remained unimpressed. He’d anticipated seeing his mother, but instead found himself surrounded by strange, underwhelming people. His "grandparents" seemed particularly unimpressive. Dominick gently prodded, "Sonny, greet your grandparents."

Grayson mumbled a reluctant greeting, his voice barely audible. Gregory, overjoyed despite the unenthusiastic welcome, fumbled through his pockets, searching for a gift—only to find he was empty-handed. He stammered an apology to Dominick.

Dominick reassured him, explaining that Grayson didn't need a gift. He acted warmly, knowing their connection to Paisley. Gregory, already somewhat egotistical, felt himself soaring.

Christina nudged Brittany forward. Brittany approached Dominick, nerves making her breath catch in her throat. He found her timid and shy, wondering how such a person could be an actress.

Grayson, eyeing Brittany with unconcealed disinterest, asked, "Dad, who is she?"

Brittany’s heart pounded as Dominick introduced her. Grayson offered a polite "Hello, Brittany," before promptly losing interest. He found her demeanor odd, her gaze at his father unsettling.

Chapter 177 Hearing Grayson’s casual greeting, Brittany felt a wave of disappointment. She’d hoped…