Chapter 85

"No, no, I'm fine," Benedict insisted between coughs. He shot meaningful glances at Hayden, who sat there motionless, seemingly blind to his grandfather's signals. 'This brat!' Benedict thought to himself.

Ultimately, it was Benjamin who stepped in, taking the phone from his friend. "Wyneth, your grandfather-in-law's cough is quite severe. Let me explain. The situation is like this..." Benjamin spoke gravely, concocting a small story that did not mention the real reason for Benedict's distress – the knowledge of the couple's divorce. As Benjamin spoke, Benedict continued to cough and sigh dramatically, the two working together like a well-rehearsed performance. Hayden sat quietly, watching the spectacle unfold.

"Your grandfather-in-law's condition isn't good. He hopes you can come see him."

As soon as Benjamin finished speaking, Benedict launched into another series of heavy coughs. "That brat is too busy with work and hardly ever visits me. Wyneth, if you're not willing to come...