Dexter slipped into another dimly lit private dining room at that moment.


    There, Sanford was seated opposite his grandfather.


    The elder, Den, presented a picture of austerity, his meticulously styled gray hair narrating tales of the past.


    His deep-set eyes, imposing and authoritative, demanded immediate respect.


    Stepping closer, Dexter leaned in and whispered cautiously, Mr.


    Quimby, Ste has arrived as well.


    A shadow flickered across Sanfords face as he murmured softly, Did she cross your path? No, I just had a word with Doreen downstairs, and she brought up Ste, Dexter exined quietly.


    After a moments reflection, Sanford directed Youd better leave now.


    Its crucial Ste doesnt spot you here.


    Acknowledging with a nod, Dexter exited the room with discreet steps.


    As the door gently clicked shut, Den, who had been dining, paused, his utensils resting on the table as surprise flickered through his eyes.


    Ste? Is Koris daughter here as well? Sanfords expression remained unreadable, though a slight twitch of his brow betrayed his concern. He faced Den, his voice steady.


    Grandpa, what brought you away from Lyllmann so suddenly? Gazing back with a mix of amusement and cunning, Dens smile widened.


    His eyes, gleaming with a mischievous spark, revealed his tactical acumen.


    Sanford, youre not fooling anyone.


    Youre dodging the issue.


    Sanford kept hisposure, his voice even.


    Im not avoiding anything, Grandpa.


    You have pressing responsibilities back in Lyllmann, and its been years since you left.


    Seamarsh is riddled with uncertainties and lurking dangers.


    Ive made arrangements for your safe return tonight.


    Dens grin took on a fox-like cunning, a yful light dancing in his eyes.


    He teased out his words slowly. Sanford, seeing you this flustered is a rarity.


    Whats troubling you? Are you afraid Ill meddle with Ste? Sanfords eyes narrowed, his tone sharpening as he responded, My concern isnt what you might do to her.


    Im worried youll throw my ns into disarray.


    Every move is critical, and we cannot afford a single slip-up.


    A chilling glimmer shed in Dens eyes, carrying a stark warning.


    Ive advised you before to expedite your ns.


    If youre not up to the task, Im prepared to step in.


    However, be warned, it wont be a scenario you can easily manage.


    Sanfords expression tightened, his tone firm and unyielding.


    Grandpa, I assure you, everything is firmly in my hands.


    We still have plenty of time before the three-month deadline approaches.


    Youre acting prematurely. Patience is essential, and impulsive actions could dismantle all weve built.


    Dens response was a harshugh, echoing slightly in the quiet room.


    His piercing gaze settled on Sanford, probing and incisive.


    You seem different, Sanford.


    You werent always this cautious.


    Is Ste the reason behind this change? Quick to dismiss the implication, Sanford answered with deliberate rity, No, it has nothing to do with her.


    My focus is solely on theprehensive strategy.


    Unswayed, Den stood up, adjusted his attire with a crisp, practiced motion, and announced his intent, his voiceced with determination.


    Since Ive made the journey here, I shall take it upon myself to meet Ste.


    Im eager to understand what makes her so intriguing.


    With a resolved stride, he began to approach the door.