Can’t Win Me Back

“You clueless thing!" Newton bellowed at Jasper.

Alyssa's chest tightened when she witnessed Newton's outburst.

She was about to speak up for Jasper when Newton added, "You should have run it through me before carrying it out.

How could you act alone? Are you addicted to angering your dad?" "Grandpa, I—" "If your dad pulled the same thing on me, I would have been pissed as well.

Anyway, I was about to teach him a lesson for not discussing the press conference with me." Sighing furiously, Newton remarked, "You should have given me a heads up so I could fight with him over hosting the press conference.

"IT could have stopped him so you didn't have to get into an argument with him, killing two birds with one stone.

See, you have angered him again.

You know he's petty, and he'll keep score.

Why would you do that?" "Grandpa, I know you wanted to protect me, but I'm no five-year- old.

I'm an adult who could protect you, Lyse, and the company." Touched by Newton's sentiments, Jasper helped him to put on the left slipper.

"Please do not worry about me.

I can resolve all my problems by myself.

retired, you should enjoy

losing sleep over

That's right.

useless old thing now." Newton let out a

on Newton's face as though he was saying, "I'd

protect you forever." She

be brought to court tomorrow, right?" Alyssa and Jasper exchanged looks

bought for Alyssa

he seemed in the pink

"Coming, Mr.

wrapped gift boxes—one for Alyssa and the other for

gifts out,"" Newton urged with

opened hers and was greeted by a velvety, sleeveless mermaid dress with a realistic embroidery

looked like

the work of Angelo Costa of Vittorino, isn't it?" She ran her fingers through the

certainly know your stuff." Newton gave her a thumbs up and added, "I

box and found a matching black vest

dress to court, but how am I supposed to

theater actor in it."

"Mr.