Chapter 236: Family Trip (3)
"Where are Fiona, Layla, and Ivy?" Alekis asked, his gaze scanning the path behind them.
"I sent them back with Roger and Aiden," Lucius replied. "Fiona wasn’t feeling well, so Layla suggested they should return to the cottage to rest."
"I see," Alekis murmured, his brows furrowing slightly. "It isn’t anything serious, is it?"
"No, it’s not, Dad," Lucius assured him, offering a small smile. "Layla just wanted to be cautious."
Alekis nodded, the worry easing from his face. He shifted his attention to the vast stretch of vineyards surrounding them, the lush green rows stretching endlessly into the horizon. "And where’s Roderick?" he asked. "He should be with us if he’s here."
Lucius turned to scan the area as well, but there was no sign of his nephew. "I thought he was right behind us earlier," he said, frowning slightly. Lucius spotted Roderick soon enough and signaled his father to follow him. They found the young man standing alone amidst the vines.
"What are you doing here alone?" Lucius asked, his tone carrying curiosity and mild concern.
"Nothing," Roderick replied curtly, turning to face them. He avoided meeting his grandfather’s eyes, his discomfort palpable. Earlier in the morning, he had managed to keep his face out of Alekis’s view, but now, standing so close, he felt completely exposed.
Alekis’s sharp gaze narrowed. "Did you get into a fight?" he asked, frowning as he examined his grandson.