?Chapter 774:


    “As for not being even a shadow of the handsome man you were in your youth…” She picked up a white chess piece with deliberate slowness and shed him a knowing smile.


    “Mr. Green, don’t start decorating yourself with imaginary feathers.”


    The words hit their mark, and in an instant, Nathaniel’s mood soured. Was she suggesting he was too full of himself? Back in his prime, he had been a heartthrob, much more popr than Rhys.


    Clearing his throat, Nathaniel opened his mouth to retort, but before he could speak, a familiar voice cut through the air.


    “Grandpa, you said I am dull? And less attractive than you in your youth?” There was a pause, followed by a teasing smirk.


    “Seems like you don’t crave those shrimps anymore.”


    Nathaniel’s face froze.


    He had been moments away from yfully scolding Rhys, but the mention of shrimps caused his expression to soften immediately, turning into a warm, almost affectionate smile.


    “Oh, you’re here.


    Are the shrimps ready so soon?”


    Rhys stood in the doorway, a mischievous glint in his eye as he regarded his grandfather with a knowing smile. Nathaniel shifted ufortably in his seat.


    He knew that smile of Rhys’ was never a good sign.


    Sure enough, the next moment, he heard his grandson revealing his past.


    “Grandpa, I heard that back in the day, you and my grandma tied the knot for the benefit of both families,cking true feelings for each other, and your heart was always with Nic…”


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    Before Rhys could finish, Nathaniel shot back sharply, “Harlee is right here.


    Could you at least spare me some dignity?”


    Nathaniel’s anger red. The thought of Harlee finding out he had fallen for Rhys’ grandmother right after his marriage was more than he could bear. It would be utterly embarrassing.


    Faced with the prospect of enduring his grandson’s razor-sharp tongue any longer, Nathaniel figured it was better to simply shuffle off and challenge Sprague to another round of backgammon, all while gathering more information about Harlee.


    After all, now that he had met Harlee, arranging another backgammon game would only take a phone call.


    Still, a flicker of regret gnawed at Nathaniel.


    His main objective remained unfulfilled, leaving a taste of disappointment lingering on his tongue.


    But time was on his side.


    As long as Harlee stayed in the picture, he would eventually mend the strained rtionship between Rhys and his parents.


    He could only hope to see his n unfold before he passed away.


    The weight of his past actions pressed down on him like a storm cloud, but he would make amends, one step at a time.


    Nathaniel rose slowly, relying on his leg for support.


    He waved a hand toward Harlee and Rhys.


    “Alright, I won’t interrupt your time together.


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