The Million-Dollar Heart

Using his cane with a metallic bottom, Oliver smacked it hard against Asher's knee.

Thud!

Already unstable on his feet, Asher crumpled forward, kneeling directly in Jasper's direction!

Asher's eyes widened, full of disbelief.

Oliver, without sparing him a glance, bowed slightly toward Jasper, "Jasper, forgive my lack of guidance. My apologies for the trouble my son has caused. Rest assured, upon our return, I'll discipline him strictly. We've overstayed our welcome today. Should you need anything in the future, do not hesitate to call me. I'll take my leave now so as not to disturb your afternoon respite."

Jasper raised an eyebrow, momentarily unsure of what play Oliver was staging.

Just moments before, Oliver seemed ready to cripple his sons without a second thought, but now he was puffing himself up like an indignant wolf!

But to leave such a mess and just walk away?

That wasn't going to be so easy.

A dark glint passed through Jasper's aged eyes. As Oliver turned to leave, he said calmly, "Hold on. Oliver, your son came here today to provoke the Perez family without a word of reason. I am his elder, and he dared to shout at me, pointing fingers. We haven't settled this account yet, and you think you can just leave like that? You're belittling the Perez family. He's a grown man; what's it to you if you apologize on his behalf?"

what would

gaze coldly falling on Asher, who was still reeling from Oliver's

a mocking laugh, he said, "You know I'm not in good health. His visit today truly frightened me. I think it's only fair that he apologizes by bowing his head. Isn't that reasonable?" "Jasper, you're

Jasper, losing all semblance of his previously feigned gentlemanly demeanor, resembling nothing more than a petty and impotent

that seems a bit much. Asher is still a Grimshaw. To bow to you... If word gets out, how will

After a pause, he continued, "How about this? In consideration of our many years of acquaintance, grant me this favor and let this incident slide. Should you need anything in the future, the Grimshaw family will

it later? I want his apology today! Oliver, don't talk to me about commanding respect. I am the head of the Perez family, his elder. What's so shameful about bowing

ears, felt like he was in the midst of a buzzing

senses, he caught

Asher had the guts to

bro? I don't think Mr. Oliver Grimshaw is the type to be hypocritical or sanctimonious. He'll surely handle this fairly. Otherwise, how will we stand among the ancient warrior lineages? People will

a fool; he could tell the Perez brothers were outright

didn't comply, by tomorrow, the entire ancient warrior lineage would hear

other families' secrets. Then, the Grimshaw would become enemies of all ancient

one would doubt the Perez family's word, especially since Asher's public

Oliver wouldn't have traveled all the way from Northway

that's what his son

the circumstances, Oliver thought, "How did I end up with such a

harshly. We, the ancient warrior lineages, share honor and disgrace. Though you've forsaken the ancestral covenant of seclusion, I still hold some regard for your father.

his voice laced with contempt, "You good-for-nothing, what

"Dad!"