Ch. 1931..1940

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1931-Ryan sped alone toward the hospital in his sports car. The car's engine roared like thunder and left the blurred scenery behind.

As soon as he reached the hospital, he got out of the car and rushed into the VIP ward area.

Bella, Justin, Asher, and Arnold were waiting outside the ward.

"How is Carrie?" Ryan asked, breathless and sweating.

"Grandpa Nigel and Chairman Salvador are with her inside."

Bella's face glowed with relief but still showed concern. "However, Carrie's internal injuries need careful treatment. Her body is still very weak, and there's

even a possibility of recurring injuries in the future.” "Though she protected her head during the attack, prolonged immersion in water caused a lung infection and severe oxygen deprivation to her brain, which led to her coma."

Arnold furrowed his brows. "Tomorrow, I'll conduct a thorough brain examination to check for any irreversible damage to her nerves and develop a treatment plan." Asher looked at his partner's clearly weary face, his deep eyes filled with tenderness. He gently caressed Arnold's face and said, "You've worked hard these past few days."

"Having you with me makes it bearable." Arnold tugged at the corner of Asher's jacket, his soft lips brushing against his ear and his warm breath soothing him.

"But… if you truly feel I've had a hard time, make sure to reward me well when we get back."

Asher's eyes darkened, and though his expression remained normal, his hand on Arnold's waist tightened. It was so warm that it made him shiver.

Arnold narrowed his fox-like eyes and smirked. 'Hmph, Asher is pretending to be all serious. But he loves it!' "I…" Ryan opened his dry lips, hesitating with a hint of guilt.

Seeing his turmoil, Justin spoke softly, "Wait until Grandpa and the others come out before you go in to see Carrie. I believe the person she most wants to see is you."

Ryan felt a sharp pain in his chest, and his breathing became heavy.

"Doctor! Where is the doctor?!"

Suddenly, Gregory burst out the door, his face flushed with urgent.” Why isn't my daughter speaking.What's going on?!"

As a doctor, Arnold had a sense of urgency and immediately rushed into the ward.

Justin and Bella followed closely behind. Ryan's heart clenched as he was about to enter. But at that moment, the ward door closed coincidentally.

He felt a shiver run through him, pressing his palm against the cold door as he lowered his head. Anxiety wrecked his heart. He could not bring himself to go in.

Despite his intense worry and impatience, he felt as if heavy chains were shackling his ankles, leaving him hesitant.

Just then, a warm hand gently rested on his shoulder.

With tears welling up in his eyes, Ryan turned and met Asher's Om comforting gaze .

Don't be afraid, and don't doubt yourself. You are the one for Carrie No one else can replace you."

"Asher…" Ryan's voice came out strained and slow.

"Your love for her is beyond anyone's opinion. It's all up to the both of you."

Asher's warm smile offered Ryan solace. "Go in and see her. I believe that even while she was in a deep coma, she has always been waiting for you."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1932-In the hospital ward, Carrie lay on the bed with a stable heartbeat and had her oxygen mask removed.

However, her breathing remained labored. Her small face was pale, and her long eyelashes fluttered delicately like butterflies poised to take flight.

"Don't be afraid, my child… You're safe now. Grandpa is here. Your father, brother, and sister-in-law are all here. No one can hurt you anymore," Nigel said, holding his granddaughter's hand, his eyes brimming with tears.

Justin's breath hitched as he held Bella, her slender body tense in his arms.

She was clearly heartbroken. However, she tried to suppress her emotions to keep her composure in front of her elders and Carrie.

A single tear glistened in Carrie's sunken eye sockets, slowly sliding down her pale cheek.

Her dry lips moved as she tried to speak, but no sound came out.

"Dr. Larson, why can't my daughter speak?!" Gregory looked at Arnold anxiously.

Arnold pondered, frowning, "She seems to have functional aphasia."

"Aphasia?!" All three Salvador men were shocked.

"Some patients develop this condition after a traumatic event. It usually results from extreme mental stress and emotional turmoil." Bella explained softly, her heart aching.

"Dr. Larson, is there any way to help my granddaughter?" Nigel asked, filled with despair.

Arnold sighed. "This is pretty complicated. If it gets severe, she might need surgery."

Nigel and Gregory felt their hearts sink. Nigel wiped away his tears. "God… Why is my granddaughter facing so many hardships?" Carrie opened her mouth and squeezed Nigel's hand.

Though she could not speak, everyone could see she was trying to comfort him, which only made the situation more poignant.

"However, if Carrie can maintain a positive mindset and stay relaxed and happy, her condition might improve significantly," Arnoldsaid, thoughtfully stroking his chin.

Bella's eyes sparkled, and a small smile played on her lips.

She immediately understood the hidden intention behind Arnold's words.

"Stay eyes lit youed and happy…" Nigel's s talking outside earlieard He quickly asked, "I Ryan here?"

โร "Yes, Grandpa," Justin replied immediately.

"H-Hurry. … Bring Ryan in! I'm sure my granddaughter wants to see nus old men. H himanu in!"

Gregory was at a loss for words.

As expected from his father, he disparaged himself while taking a jab at him.

The hospital ward door opened, and Ryan's heart pounded as he walked in with awkward steps.

He hesitated on the outskirts of the room, unable to move closer.

With eyes full of encouragement, Justin gently pushed Ryan toward his sister.

"Carrie, look who's here."

Ryan's pale, haggard face came into view, meeting the girl's bloodshot eyes.

Carrie slowly widened her eyes, her mouth opening and emitting hoarse, incoherent sounds.

Her previously dull eyes now seemed to hold countless bright stars. She gazed at hip quietly and lovingly .

At that moment, Ryan could no longer contain his overwhelming emotions.

He kneeled by Carrie's bed before everyone, a broken sob escaping his throat as he wept uncontrollably.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1933-Ryan's once strong posture gradually bent under the burden of his emotions. He had always kept them tightly contained but they were now spilling over. "Ah…

Ah…"

Carrie's clear eyes turned red as she struggled to lift her hand. She gently placed her hand on Ryan's much slimmer face. Her trembling fingers wandered upward, finally resting at his graying temples. "Have I become a lot uglier?"

Ryan covered her hand with his calloused one, gently rubbing it and trying to smile. "I'm not as handsome as I used to be. Carrie… Are you going to dislike me because of that?"

"Ah…"

Carrie's heart ached. However, her almost-babbling sounds barely escaped her lips, her eyes brimming with tears.

Sensitive and tender-hearted, Bella could not hold back and secretly wiped away her tears.

Unable to bear watching any longer, Nigel pulled Gregory out of the room. Justin and Bella followed suit, leaving the two lovers alone in the ward.

Having survived the ordeal, even though Carrie could not speak, they had countless feelings to share as they faced each other.

Ryan tightly held Carrie's thin frame, his breath warm and heavy as his tears fell onto her hand.

They gazed at each other in silence. Their deep love required no words.

Carrie's long lashes fluttered softly as she slowly traced alphabets on Ryan's palm with her delicate fingers.

Y-A-S-M-I-N.

As she finished the last letter, Ryan's tightly clenched fist trembled from the strain. His downturned lips barely contained the bone-deep pain of losing a loved one. "Carrie, recover well. Once you get better, I'll take you to see Yasmin."

Innocent and simple-hearted, Carrie did not grasp his well-intentioned deception. She nodded earnestly, a faint smile forming on her lips.

Since Carrie had woken up and Nigel had almost recovered, they were packing up and preparing for discharge.

In the hospital ward, Matt was organizing things while Nigel took the opportunity to pull Gregory aside for a conversation.

"At this point, I'm not going to say anything unnecessary."

Nigel took a sip of tea, his expression stern. "Now, Chairman Hoffman has passed away. The authorities have brought Liam and Zoe to justice. Mrs.

Hoffman also has severe mental issues. They have already sent her to a psychiatric hospital abroad for treatment. Ryan has kept his word and resolved all the troubles on the Hoffmans' side. I think you shouldn't have any more reservations toward him, right?"

Gregory lowered his eyelids. He seemed to have a lot to say but was unsure of how to start.

"Ryan had sacrificed a lot for Carrie. From what Justin and Anna said, Ryan's personal bodyguard, who grew up with him, also chose to sacrifice herself to save Carrie."

Gregory nodded solemnly. "Yes, that girl named Yasmin. I've known her since she was a child. She was always by Ryan's side."

"Gregory, are you still unwilling to let

go of your prejudice and accept Ryan? As parents, don't we just want to see our children happy? Think about yourself back then. You were so determined to marry Justin's mother, despite immense pressure.

Can you really bear to tear apart these two ill-fated lovers? The kids have suffered so much because of your opposition. Can you truly turn a blind eye to their pain?"

In a moment of realization, Gregory remembered his younger self.

He had once loved a woman with the same unwavering resolve as then young man from the Hoffman family.

Yet he had to admit he lacked Ryan's depth of emotion. Shannon's fake affections blinded him, leading to his eternal separation from the woman he truly loved. He even misunderstood her for over twenty years.

However, no amount of regret could change the past. It was already too late.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1934-However, Carrie and Ryan still unwaveringly held each other's hand. They could definitely start anew.

"Dad, I have no more objections to Carrie's and Ryan's marriage."

Gregory sat upright. After a pause, he added sternly, "In the coming days, I'll have Paul prepare a list of wedding gifts. Even though Ryan has lost his family members, I must still ensure that my daughter's wedding is grand and respectable. With Ryan as the chairman of the Hoffman Group now, Carrie will become the legitimate matron of the Hoffman family. If the betrothal gifts aren't substantial enough, those snobby Hoffman family members might gossip and belittle my daughter."

Nigel responded with a neutral expression. "Let the young people make their own decisions about their marriage. Your only job is not to oppose them. You don't need to worry about the rest. Carrie had suffered severe trauma and wouldn't easily shake off the psychological trauma. They should arrange the wedding on their own. If not, they can also just register their marriage first to avoid further delays and complications."

Gregory felt a mix of anger, hatred, and guilt as he thought about how Shannon's illegitimate child had taken away half of the love that should have been exclusively for Carrie. His eyes reddened with the intensity of his emotions, and he resolved never to let his only daughter suffer any longer.

"Alright, we'll do it as you say."

…

Relieved, Gregory stepped out of his father's ward, only to find Justin waiting for him outside the door.

"Is something going on?"

Justin pursed his lips. "I just received news that Harry had a heart attack last night and died in prison."

Gregory's expression remained stern, his tone detached. "Well, he got what he deserved. He and Shannon can reunite in the afterlife."

His teeth clenched, and a surge of hatred filled his heart.

Justin's expression turned inscrutable. "Do you have something to do with this?"

Gregory tensed, glancing at his son's dark and penetrating gaze.

"To be honest, there was no need for you to go this far."

Like how a father knows his son, Justin could read the answer from his father's expression. He continued in a deep and serious tone, "Shannon has already paid the price. Her daughter also severed ties with the Salvador family and face legal consequences. understand that you hold a grudge because Shannon deceived you, but taking a life in anger can lead to trouble. I hope you will think carefully before acting in the future."

Gregory's pupils widened in shock.

ve It had been many years since Justin had spoken to him so calmly and considerately. He even considered it from his perspective. It was something he had not dared to imagine before today.

As Justin turned to leave, Gregory suddenly spoke up.

"My resentment isn't solely because of Shannon's deceit."

Justin paused, his gaze deepening.

After all, they were father and son. They understood each other with just a few words.

"When Carrie gets discharged, have Ryan spend more time at Tideview Manor with her."

Then, Gregory added casually, "I know you and Ms. Thompson have a place outside, but Tide view Manor is also your home. It doesn't look right for a grown man to snel at a woman's house. You both should come back and stay days every so often . Well, that's if Ms.

Thompson is still willing to set foot in Tide view Manor."

Justin felt a surge of emotion but could not manage to get the words of thanks out of his throat.

The rare moment of truce between the father and son was abruptly interrupted by the arrival of Paul, who hurried over excitedly.

"Chairman Salvador! You won't believe who's back!"

Paul's eyes shone with excitement. "It's Young Master Grant! Young Master Grant is back in town!"

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1935-Justin's tall frame instantly stiffened. It was as if an invisible force had seized his heart.

"What did you just say? Grant is back?!"

Gregory's eyes sparkled with joy. His delight was evident. "Where is he now?!"

"He's currently in the hospital's underground parking lot. I happened to run into him when I was returning from an errand."

"Why didn't he tell us in advance?" Gregory exclaimed, his face beaming with a mixture of joy and reproach.

"I talked to Young Master Grant for a bit. He said he didn't inform you in advance because he didn't want you to go through the trouble of preparing for his arrival."

"That boy, always so considerate!" As he finished his sentence, Gregory quickly instructed Justin, "Justin, go inform your grandfather. I'll head down to greet Grant first!"

Justin watched their departing figures, his fingers curling inward slightly.

When the Salvadors reached the parking lot, Grant was already sitting calmly in his wheelchair with a gentle smile on his face.

"Grant!" Gregory called out excitedly, striding eagerly toward his eldest son.

Not far behind, Justin and Bella supported the elderly patriarch, following at a more measured pace.

"Grandpa, Dad, Justin, I ended up disturbing you all."

Grant's pale lips curled into a gentle smile, like a spring breeze rippling across a deep lake. His warm gaze finally settled on Bella's serene face. "Ms. Thompson, you've also come specifically to welcome me. I feel quite embarrassed."

"It's nothing. Since you're Justin's elder brother, you're naturally my brother as well. It's only right that I treat you with respect."

Bella responded with a polite smile while secretly sizing up the legendary eldest son of the Salvador family.

She had anticipated this day but had not expected it to arrive so abruptly.

Before meeting him, she had always imagined him as a lurking adversary, ready to challenge her man at any moment.

Yet, upon seeing him today, she found no trace of hostility in his serene and gentle demeanor.

His warm and approachable smile effortlessly bridged any distance between them.

"Welcome back, Grant," Justin said warmly. However, his handsome features were tinged with a thin layer of frost, betraying a mix of complex emotions.

He did not quite understand his own reaction.

Although his brother had merely greeted Bella, his heart suddenly clenched with unease.

At that moment, as Bella supported their grandfather, she felt an unexpected, searing warmth on the back of Justin's hand.

Justin interfaced Bella's hand, which was supporting his grandfather's waist, tightly. His fingertips nervously cramped together, sending a tingling sensation through his nerves.

Bella furrowed her brows slightly, casting a puzzled gaze at Justin.

However, Justin kept his gaze ahead.

His expression was as serene as that of a meditating monk, though the tension in his jawtine revealed his suppressed emotions.

Grant, why didn't you inform us in advance of your return? We could have prepared properly. This is so sudden," Nigel said with a warm smile.

'We're all family. There's no need for preparation. It's been many years om since we last met. But surely, you OV don't see me as an outsider, do you, Grandpa?" Grant's smile deepened.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1936-Nigel's expression stiffened. He said, "Nonsense, you and Justin are both my grandsons. I care for you both equally." Grant chuckled. "Grandpa, I was just joking. I know you care about me."

At that moment, the door of the luxurious van opened, and a graceful figure emerged.

"Mr. Grant, the parking lot is chilly. Your body can't handle the cold."

As she spoke, Clarice lowered her gaze and bent down, carefully draping a soft blanket over Grant's knees.

Gregory glanced at the stranger and asked, "Who is this?"

"This is Ms. Clarice Amaryllis, my personal assistant. Back when I was in Meridan, she was always taking care of me, the useless person," Grant answered, pressing a fist against his pale lips and coughing lightly.

"Grant, you're the son that I value very much. How could you call yourself useless? Don't belittle yourself. Your health has improved a lot, and with continued treatment, you will keep getting better!" Gregory spoke patiently, looking at Clarice with gratitude. "Ms. Amaryllis, thank you for your hard work."

"It's my pleasure, Chairman Salvador. Taking care of Mr. Grant is my duty. It's not hard work at all," Clarice replied with a sweet smile.

Justin stared at her lovely, delicate features, his eyes dark and intense. Even from a distance of two meters, his sharp senses picked up the faint floral scent she was giving off.

Clarice felt his gaze, and her bright eyes flickered briefly, the smile on her lips softening ever so slightly.

Bella noticed this and could not help but bite her lips, feeling secretly jealous.

"Dad, can I go visit Carrie?" Grant asked, his brows furrowed slightly as concern filled his eyes. "I'm her brother too, and I'm really worried about her."

Clarice sighed sympathetically. "To be honest, Mr. Grant rushed back without telling anyone because he wanted to visit Ms. Carrie. Ever since her accident, he hasn't been able to get a good night's sleep. He wanted to come back sooner, but he was you all more worried about causing was trouble, so he delayed his return by a few days."

"Clarice, there's no need for these unnecessary comments," Grant complained angrily.

"My son, you're so considerate," Gregory said, clearly touched. "Your timing is perfect. Carrie just regained consciousness. She'll be very happy to see you."

The Salvador family returned to the VIP in-patient ward, and the usually proud and noble Gregory personally pushed Grant's wheelchair.

It was customary for prominent families to place immense importance on their firstborn son, a tradition that had existed for centuries in Savrow.

If it were not for the kidnapping incident that led to Grant's declining health, the 'illegitimate son', Justin, would never have gained such prominence and influence within a few years.

Just as Bella was about to follow them into the ward, Justin suddenly grabbed her slender wrist.

Without a word, he pulled her into the dimly lit safety corridor and slammed the door shut behind them.

He gazed at her intensely as his large hands gripped her shoulders, pressing her against the wall, before kissing her passionately.

Bella felt no discomfort as Justin's hand cushioned the impact between her shoulders and the wall. Their lips and mouths were locked in a passionate kiss, and tears glistened at the corners of her eyes as she was swept up in the moment.

After a long while, their lips finally parted.

'What's got you all worked up suddenly?" Bella panted, her soft and tender body still pinned against the wall by him.

"Bella, don't look at him that way,"

Justin murmured. His intense passion and possessiveness on the verge of bursting from his chest His gåze was dark and. intense. "Even if he is my elder brother."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1937-Bella looked into Justin's lust-filled eyes, her lips still glistening from their kiss.

Suddenly, she remembered Clarice's charming face and the smile Clarice reserved for Justin. This caused a wave of discomfort to wash over her.

She was not being unreasonable. As the heiress of KS Group, she did not feel the need to behave like those jealous, petty women who rely on men. But this time, she could not control it and felt a little annoyed.

Bella said, "Grant is your elder brother, and he greeted me politely. Should I have cried instead of smiling at him?" Bella turned her face away, her face flushing slightly as she avoided Justin's intense gaze. Justin's eyes darkened.

He playfully tilted Bella's chin with his fingertips, gently turning her face towards him, as if teasing and compelling her to meet his gaze.

"Bella, I'm worried," Justin said, his voice low and rough.

Bella blinked, her eyes glistening.

"Your smile is just so beautiful. I'm worried my brother might get captivated by it," Justin murmured, his lips nearly brushing the corner of hers.

"I can't help it. I'm just naturally charming all the time," Bella said in a low voice.

"But no matter how charming I am, I'll never compare to Ms. Amaryllis." Justin's brow furrowed. "What do you mean by that?"

Bella pouted and said, "I thought you only had eyes for me and avoided all other women. Turns out, you just hadn't met someone to your liking." The air in the safety corridor was thick with jealousy.

Even though Justin was as dense as a rock, he got it now and couldn't help but chuckle, his heart filled with joy.

"Bella, are you jealous?"

"No, I'm not! You can look at whoever you want. I don't care… Mmph!"

Bella was once again pulled into a kiss, this time even more intense and passionate, leaving her body weak and her mind hazy.

Their bodies were pressed closely together, and she could feel his heated response. She shyly pushed against his chest but was unable to resist.

Although Justin was extremely skilled, he was not the type to lose his composure easily.

At that critical moment, he held himself back despite his discomfort. His large hand gently cradled the back of her smooth neck as he spoke in a low, husky tone, "I was wrong. If it happens again, l'bpunish myself by turning myself blind."

"You better not let it happen again, you rascal!" Bella glared at him and punched his shoulder.

"But Bella, you've misunderstood me." Justin held her close, looking down at her face. "I paid attention to Clarice because I had a suspicion." "What do you mean?"

"The last time I went to Meridan to visit my brother, she was the one who fetched me. She had a unique fragrance, Similar to orchids.

Justin's voice lowered, a contemplative look in his eyes. "I pretended to want to buy you perfume just so I could askher about that scent. She said it was a custom blend that's hard to find on the market. When I caught a whiff of it again on her today, I couldn't help but pay closer attention. m sorry for making you unhappy. It was my mistake."

Bella draped her delicate arms over his sturdy shoulders, meeting his gaze intently "Christopher does always smell nice, but I never noticed the orchid scent you mentioned."

vaguely remember that Christopher also had this scent."

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1938-"Do you think there's a connection between Christopher and Clarice?"

"I know my instincts are usually on point, but this evidence is just not concrete enough. It could just be a coincidence," Justin said.

Justin was a rational person. However, he always believed that his brother was a person of integrity. How could he associate with someone as despicable as Christopher?

Bella pondered for a moment before speaking firmly, "I'm not sure how long your brother will be staying in Savrow this time. If he's just here to visit Carrie, that's fine. But if he decides to stick around, Justin, you'll need to have someone keep an eye on his whereabouts. If Clarice is really connected to Christopher, your

brother cannot possibly be unaware of Christopher. If he stays in Savrow for a long time, it's inevitable they will interact."

She continued, "Well, I genuinely hope your brother has no connection to Christopher in any way. After all, you hold him in such high regard."

"Bella, I'm glad you feel that way about my brother." Justin let out a long, relieved sigh, as if a heavy burden had been lifted from his shoulders, but he still held Bella close in his arms. "I'm not afraid of anything except losing you."

Bella pouted, playfully poking his chest. "Mr. Salvador, can't you focus on the crisis at hand instead of just thinking about love all the time?"

Despite her concerns for his empire, all he seemed to think about was love.

Carrie had just woken up, and her body was still very weak. She forced herself to stay awake for a while to enjoy Ryan's company, but soon fell into a deep sleep again.

Grant visited his little sister, taking a serious interest in her current condition.

Although his visit was brief, he showed his brotherly love and care for her to the fullest extent.

For Gregory, who had been under immense pressure for days, today was a double blessing. His daughter had regained consciousness, and his eldest son had returned from abroad. He immediately instructed Paul to arrange a lavish dinner at the Tideview Manor to welcome Grant back.

Grant, along with his grandfather and father, headed back to the Tideview Manor, while Justin sente Bella, who had not rested for several days, back to the villa in Savrow before rushing to join them at the Tideview Manor.

As he entered, Justin noticed the butler and servants scurrying about, carrying all sorts of items.

The coffee table was stacked high with gift boxes of all shapes and sizes.

"What are these?" Justin asked the butler.

The butler spoke cheerfully. "Young Master Grant has returned with some gifts for Old Master Nigel, Chairman Salvador, as well as gifts for you and Ms. Carrie!"

He continued, "Old Master Nigel and Chairman Salvador have already seen them and are quite pleased.

Chairman Salvador, in particular, seemed quite delighted. I haven't seen him smile like that in a long while!"

Justin's eyes narrowed as he nonchalantly opened one of the gift boxes. Inside was a blue and white porcelain vase a domed with dragon designs, worth over $8 million at auction. Just that single item was a fortune in itself. Collectively, these gifts were truly lavish.

Justin's mouth tightened into a thin line.

The dining room at the Tide view Manor was bustling with energy livelier than it had been in a while.

Given Grant's well-being, the menu tonight consisted of many light and healthy dishes.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1939-Nigel didn't touch a drop of alcohol, sipping only the finest tea as he chatted amiably with Gregory and Grant. They discussed everything from the climate of Meridan to its cultural customs, finding endless topics to talk about.

When Nigel did occasionally chime in, his expression was indifferent. He was not particularly warm to his eldest grandson, but he was not distant either. He remarked, "Carrie is a blessed girl. Once she overcomes this challenge, she'll have plenty of good days ahead of her."

Grant asked with concern, "Mr. Hoffman seems truly devoted to Carrie. From what I saw today, are they close to tying the knot?"

"As soon as your sister's health improves, I'm planning to arrange their marriage."

Thinking about his daughter's marriage, tears welled up in Gregory's eyes. He felt a mix of relief and reluctance.

"This is such great news! Carrie and Mr. Hoffman are a match made in heaven.

They're a perfect couple. When their big day arrives, I'll be sure to get them a really nice wedding gift."

"Grant, the gift you gave Carrie this time is already very generous. It's more than enough. No need to spend any more money!" Gregory spoke with a smile.

"It's not enough," Grant replied with a gentle, elegant smile. "You have only one daughter, and I have only one sister. She deserves to be cherished twice as much."

"These past years, living on my own in Meridan, I haven't really been there for my siblings like I should have been as the older brother. But now that I'm feeling a bit better, I just want to do something nice for them to make up for it."

Gregory was deeply touched, his eyes welling up. "Your kind words truly make me happy, my son!"

"Grant, the things you've brought today have been quite impressive," Nigel said, before his tone shifted. "It seems you've been living quite comfortably in Meridan. The gifts you've brought today alone are worth more than your yearly dividends from the Salvador Corporation, aren't they?"

Grant glanced subtly at his grandfather, appreciating the old man's insight. "In Meridan, I've been investing the dividends I receive from the Salvador Connel some modest business ventures. A few fortunate investments have earned me a decent amount," Grant replied sincerely and humbly, his deep eyes narrowing slightly.

Nigel chuckled. "What kind of small business can rake in billions? This old man would love to hear some business tips from my eldest grandson." Grant replied casually, "Pharmaceuticals."

A glint of intrigue flickered in Grant's eyes as he spoke.

"Wow, that pharmaceutical business must be really lucrative! Grant, you're quite the savvy businessman," Gregory remarked admiringly. "Even the Luminex Group in Hatchbay, run by Chairman Larson, shifted away from medicine years ago to focus on the booming biotech industry, and now they're one of the top pharmaceutical companies in the country."

"It's rare to be reunited with family. Talking about business is dry and tedious. It's just about making money, after all."

Grant suddenly fixed his gaze on Justin, his eyes calm and profound.

Justin, I'm really glad that you and Mrs. Thompson have reconciled. As your elder brother, I'm genuinely happy for you." Justin smiled faintly and said, "Thank you, Grant."

When I was at an auction in Meridan last month, I came across an item that I really liked. I thought it would suit Ms. Thompson perfectly, so I bought it."

Grant pulled a fancy, delicate box from his jacket and placed it in the center of the table. "When you get back, give this to Ms. Thompson. It's a little congratulatory gift for your reconciliation."

Justin hesitated for a moment before standing up and taking the box. As he opened it his expression suddenly turned dark. Inside was a beautiful and realistic white magnolia hairpin.

The Divorced Heiress Revenge Chapter 1940-"When I saw this hairpin, I liked it very much and thought it would be perfect for Ms. Thompson," Grant said with a warm, sincere smile.

"Justin, it's just a small gift. I hope you won't mind." With a snap, Justin closed the box and pushed it back to the center of the table. His eyes were dark as he said, "This gift is far too generous. Grant, I appreciate your kindness, and I would like to thank you on behalf of Bella."

Grant's expression showed no embarrassment. He continued to smile calmly, meeting Justin's gaze.

"Justin, what's the matter?" Gregory said, his displeasure evident on his face as he scolded.

"Your brother has finally returned and thoughtfully prepared generous gifts for everyone, including your girlfriend. Are you so picky that you can't even accept something from your brother? Even if you don't like it, can you honestly say your brother has ever treated you poorly? You shouldn't refuse the gift. It's simply too hurtful!"

"Dad, please don't be angry." Grant coughed lightly and gently advised, "It's not a big deal. It's not easy for the entire family to be together. So don't let this small matter ruin the harmony."

"Justin, just accept your brother's thoughtful gift," Nigel said, giving Justin a look.

He was sitting opposite Justin, unaware of what was in the box. He only wanted to smooth things over, especially since Justin and his father had been getting along better lately.

Under the table, Justin's hand clenched into a fist. He looked at Grant and said, "Grant, I would have happily accepted any other gift. But I cannot accept a hairpin."

Grant raised his eyebrows.

"In our traditional customs, a man giving a woman a hairpin was like a proposal, a commitment to be partners for life," Justin said, his tone low and a bit chilly.

"But Bella is already your sister-in-law. Gifting her something like that just doesn't seem right."

Nigel suddenly understood. No wonder Justin had reacted so strongly. If he were in Justin's shoes, he probably would have blown his top too.

Gregory frowned. "Justin, aren't you being too sensitive about this? Your brother is a man, how would he know the significance of women's jewelry? You're making too big a deal out of it."

"It was my fault." Grant admitted, smiling a bit sheepishly. "I've been living abroad for so long that I've forgotten many of our customs and traditions. Justin, don't take it to heart." Justin's gaze deepened. "I won't."

Justin felt upset and found an excuse to leave the table. He went to the backyard to get some fresh air. Though he said he didn't mind, it was impossible not to.

The gifts Grant brought were all expensive antiques and artwork. Despite living abroad, his environment was classic and elegant, exuding a cultural and artistic atmosphere. Given his love for traditional styles, how could he not know the significance of giving a woman a hairpin?

Justin tugged at his tie but still felt short of breath. He genuinely hadn't thought much of it. Or was it a subtle way of testing his limits?

At that moment, voices from the garden interrupted his thoughts. Justin walked over and saw the butler and some servants gathered by the pavilion near the pool, seemingly watching something.

"Young Master Justin." The two servants on the outer edge quickly bowed.

"What's going on here?" Justin asked calmly.

"It's Ms. Amaryllis. She's treating the leg injury of the fawn we have in the yard,"

One of the servants replied with an expression of admiration.

The fawn hurt its leg somehow and was in so much pain that it was m rolling on the ground . The butler was about to call a vet, but Ms. Amaryllis managed to bandage the injury herself!"

Justin's indifferent gaze fell on Clarice. Her face was calm, and she was kneeling on one knee. Her pristine white pants were stained with mud, but she didn't seem to mind, focusing solely on bandaging the fawn's leg with skillful and practiced movements, clearly a professional.

The scene before him made Justin's eyes narrow in shock.

"There, there, it's okay," Clarice said gently, patting the fawn. "Go play now."

The fawn wobbled to its feet, tested its injured front left leg, then let out a cry and dashed out of the pavilion , brushing past Justin as it ran by.