Chapter 49: A lovely night
"Have you lost your mind, Mom?" Roderick snapped, his frustration boiling over. "I told you—I won’t have any relationship with Orabela. She’s not the only rich woman in the country who can help me secure an early succession as chairman." His grip tightened on the file in his hand, his knuckles whitening.
Fiona, visibly upset, shook her head in disbelief. "But you’ve been with Orabela for months, Roderick. Why are you suddenly acting like this? She’s been nothing but good to you and to me. She takes care of me even though you two aren’t even married yet. Orabela calls me every night before bed—where will I ever find such a well-mannered daughter-in-law?"
Roderick clenched his jaw, refusing to continue the conversation. Arguing with his mother would only make him angrier, so he stormed out of the room, leaving her in a stunned silence. As he walked downstairs, he spotted his grandfather, Alekis, engrossed in conversation with James Cooper, the family’s long-trusted secretary.
"Good morning, Grandpa!" Roderick greeted warmly, stepping forward to hug him. He then turned to James, nodding politely. "Good to see you, James."
Alekis returned the hug with a chuckle, stepping back to look at his grandson. "Why do you look so cheerful today?" he asked, amused.
Roderick’s smile broadened. "I’m going back to work. My wrist has healed, and the doctor said I just need to avoid too much stress on it. But don’t worry, I’ll manage."
"That’s wonderful news," Alekis said, clearly pleased. Just then, Fiona appeared at the foot of the stairs, her smile bright but strained.
"Let’s have breakfast," Alekis suggested, leading them to the dining room. Roderick and Fiona followed, settling down at the table.
As they began eating, Roderick cleared his throat, his tone turning more serious. "Grandpa, I’ve been thinking about expanding the research division of our pharmaceutical company. There’s a big plot of land coming up for bid soon, and I’m planning to participate. If you’re okay with it, I’d like to move forward with the acquisition."