Ch. 1001..1010
Chapter 1001
After Benjamin heard her coquettishness, his thin lips lifted a fraction, curving into a devilish smirk.
“I don't want to go out.”
Arissa was rendered speechless, and she hurriedly got up. However, a pair of long arms reached out to hug her tightly as she struggled to break free.
“What are you doing? Dad asked us to hurry up. We're almost late!”
Benjamin smiled and helped her up, and then he got up himself.
“Let's go down in a while.”
From his voice, it was obvious what his intention was.
Arissa's ears started turning red. Sensing his movement, she quickly looked away and was too embarrassed to stare at his pants.
“You're unbelievable!”
Benjamin cleared his throat and sat on the bed. Then, he patted the spot right next to him and said, “Come here!”
Arissa was reluctant to go next to him since he was behaving strangely.
She sat on the chair again and touched up her makeup in front of the mirror. There, she saw her lips were slightly swollen, and her face flushed again.
It was quiet in the room, but romantic tension filled the air.
Arissa felt someone staring at her with an intense gaze.
Her eyes flickered, and she couldn't help but look at Benjamin's reflection in the mirror. When she saw his gaze set on her, she turned around and glanced at him. Her heart skipped a beat when their eyes met. noveldrama
“Can you stop staring at me like that?”
“Come here!” Benjamin's voice was hoarse, and he hadn't calmed down yet.
In response, Arissa pursed her lips.
She flinched unwittingly when Benjamin got up.
A smile flashed across Benjamin's narrowed eyes as he walked toward the closet.
Blinking her eyes, Arissa thought he was going to approach her. Only then she realized she was overthinking things.
Oh goodness, how awkward!
Soon, Benjamin came out with a pair of heels in his hands.
Arissa was touched by his action.
“I almost forgot.”
Benjamin walked up to her and squatted down halfway to put on the heels for her.
When his big hand grabbed her ankle and pulled her close, Arissa pulled back subconsciously.
Her cheeks flushed crimson and she felt her feet sweating.
“I'll wear them myself!”
Benjamin ignored her and pulled her feet close to him again, wanting to slide on the heels for her.
Arissa was moved and felt her heart pound as she watched Benjamin focus on helping her.
Even though they were together, she was not used to him acting so sweetly and doing things for her. It all felt surreal to her.
To think he hated her before this.
Benjamin proceeded to put the heel on the other foot after he was done with one foot.
As he lifted his head, he noticed her being in a daze.
He wondered if she was in a trance because of him. Benjamin's gaze darkened as he leaned in to kiss her on her lips.
Arissa returned to her senses and quickly dodged him. Covering her mouth, she warned Benjamin shyly, “I've just touched up my lipstick. What are you doing? We have to leave soon!”
Benjamin flashed a devilish smirk. “We still have time!”
“That doesn't make it okay!”
Arissa stared at him and chuckled when she saw her lipstick on the corner of his mouth.
“Your lips!”
Benjamin raised his brow. Needless to say, he knew what was going on.
Then, he leaned forward to her. Shocked, Arissa hurriedly stepped back, not noticing that nothing was supporting her back, and almost fell.
Benjamin took action immediately and grabbed her to pull her toward him.
Arissa fell into his arms and breathed heavily as she shuddered.
“Look at how clumsy you are! Am I that scary?”
Benjamin gave her a light scolding.
Looking at the woman in his arms, who looked stunned, he raised his thin lips slightly.
“You were the one who acted recklessly. I was afraid you were going to mess up my lipstick again.”
Arissa glared fiercely at Benjamin.
“I didn't do anything. I only wanted you to wipe off the lipstick stain on my mouth!”
Benjamin put on an innocent face as he looked at her with a smile.
Arissa rolled her eyes at him angrily and retorted shyly, “Why didn't you say so earlier? Who knows what you were trying to do, suddenly coming so close to me.”
“What did you think I wanted to do?”
Benjamin teased her. His eyes were dark, like a whirlpool that could pull one's soul in.
Arissa's eyes flickered. “Hurry up and wipe your mouth. I'm heading downstairs!”
With that, she pushed him away and got up.
Chapter 1002
Benjamin touched his nose and stood up. Then, he pulled her over and wrapped his long arms around her slim waist.
“Wipe it for me!”
Arissa had no choice but to concede to the overbearing demand of the man before her. However, she liked him just the way he was.
She took the tissue from him and wiped off the lipstick stain on the corner of his mouth.
“Done.”
Benjamin looked at his reflection in the mirror, and his mouth was clean now.
Then, he grabbed Arissa's hand and walked toward the door.
Arissa quickly took her phone with her.
When the two reached the staircase, Benjamin scooped her into his arms.
“Ah!”
Frightened, Arissa quickly clung to his neck and complained, “Can you tell me in advance before you do this?” noveldrama
Fortunately, her heart was strong enough to endure this sudden movement. Otherwise, she would have had a heart attack.
“Did I scare you?”
Watching her worried look, Benjamin once again smirked.
“What do you think?” Arissa harrumphed.
“I'll tell you beforehand next time,” Benjamin apologized.
Arissa could feel his warm breath puffing on her tender skin. Ripples formed in her heart as she felt like he was flirting with her.
As she leaned into Benjamin's embrace in a gentle and docile manner, her cheeks were flushed.
Benjamin glanced at the woman in his tight embrace while he felt an urge bubbling from within.
Seeing that he didn't move, Arissa reminded him, “What are you doing? Let's go down now!”
Only then did Benjamin walk down the stairs with her in his embrace.
Kingsley, Ethen, and Jack were having fun with the six kids in the living room. When they heard the duo's footsteps, they turned around to look at the couple.
“Wow! Mommy, you look beautiful!”
Jesse jumped happily on the spot as she clapped her tiny hands.
“Mommy, you look like you're wearing a wedding gown!” Jasper grinned.
Touching his chin, Oliver looked at his parents. “She does!”
Zachary said with beaming eyes, “Mr. Graham looks like he's wearing wedding attire too!”
Gavin and Tim couldn't take their eyes off the two as they giggled.
Daddy and Mommy are gorgeous.
Kingsley, Ethen, and Jack were also dumbfounded, staring at the pair, who looked like a perfect match.
They looked so beautiful one couldn't take their eyes off them.
Meanwhile, Kingsley couldn't help but whistle.
“What took you two so long? Did you do something naughty?”
Arissa flushed slightly while Benjamin was calm as he swept his gaze over.
Kingsley smiled as he scrutinized the two and noticed Arissa's slightly swollen lips.
Then, he smirked as though he had discovered a secret.
Arissa glared at Benjamin in embarrassment and thought it was awkward for someone else to know what they had done.
Benjamin glanced at her and gently let her down.
The children ran toward them promptly and surrounded them while grinning happily.
“You look beautiful, Mommy!”
“My sweethearts look handsome too!” Arissa hugged the kids and was in a good mood.
The little ones smiled while Jesse held Arissa's hand. “Mommy, Mommy, what about me?”
“You're very pretty,” Arissa praised her with a smile.
Then, she bent over to kiss the children but suddenly stopped when she remembered that she had put on lipstick.
Instead, she pinched the children's cheeks lovingly.
“Sweethearts, we need to leave now. Your grandpa asked us to be quick!”
“Mommy, Grandpa called me earlier and asked me when we were leaving,” Gavin said.
“What did you tell him?” Arissa asked as she walked them out.
“I told him Daddy was helping Mommy with her brows,” Gavin replied cheerfully.
Embarrassment inundated Arissa as she received the news that the elders had found out about her being intimate with Benjamin behind closed doors.
“Let's go!”
Benjamin greeted Kingsley, Ethen, and Jack. Then, he followed Arissa and the children out the door.
“Boss, what were you two doing upstairs?” Kingsley probed as he inched closer to Benjamin.
Benjamin shot him a warning look. “Kingsley, are you itching for a beating?”
In response, Kingsley smiled/ “I know what you two did, even if you don't tell me!”
Benjamin narrowed his eyes the next second. Seeing that, Kingsley quickly slipped away.
Chapter 1003
Ethen approached Benjamin and reported the findings of his investigation the night before.
“We've figured it out, Mr. Graham.”
“Send the details to my phone,” replied Benjamin discreetly.
“Yes, Mr. Graham!”
Ethen nodded and sent the information right away.
Benjamin added, “Keep a close eye on the Old Manor!”
“Understood!” noveldrama
Ethen moved away to discuss the Old Manor's surveillance plans with Jack.
Meanwhile, Arissa carried the children into the trailer before getting in herself. When Benjamin noticed that Kingsley was about to follow Arissa, he grabbed the latter by the shirt collar and pulled him aside.
At the same time, he ducked into the car and muttered pettily, “You can take another car!”
Kingsley was flabbergasted by his jealous outburst and occupied the passenger seat of the trailer.
Ethen and Jack drove another car behind the trailer.
Rounding out the entourage were more cars driven by bodyguards, all headed toward the Graham family's Old Manor.
Just then, Jasper tugged on his mother's arm and cried, “Mommy!”
Arissa smiled and pinched his nose gently. “What's wrong?”
Jasper beamed at her and exclaimed, “You haven't looked this pretty in a long time, Mommy!”
His praise drew a smile from Arissa, who replied teasingly, “Does that mean I'm usually not pretty?”
“Hehe, you're always pretty!” came Jasper's hasty reply.
Gavin, Tim, Zachary, and Oliver burst into laughter while Jesse cooed, “Mommy's the prettiest person I know!”
Her eyes sparkled with delight as she sang her mother's praises.
Benjamin could not resist pulling his daughter onto his lap. Jesse shot him a cheeky glance, prompting him to ask, “What are you looking at?”
The girl chuckled and responded softly, “Mr. Graham is handsome too!”
Benjamin was about to burst with joy as he replied, “Our dear Jesse is very pretty today too!”
Jesse dissolved into a puddle of giggles.
Arissa turned to glance at their interaction. She's quite similar to her dad.
“Jesse, who's more handsome? Mr. Graham or me?” The chatty Jasper simply could not resist throwing himself into their conversation.
His sister answered wittily, “You're both handsome. In fact, don't all of you look like Mr. Graham?”
The reply thoroughly charmed Jasper, who ran his fingers through his hair and boasted, “Well, I think I'm the most handsome person of the lot!”
Jasper's narcissistic declaration had his brothers and Benjamin going slack-jawed in disbelief.
Arissa leaned forward and pinched his cheeks, chiding him, “Don't be so vain!” It merely drew a snigger from Jasper.
Zachary suddenly piped up, “Did you buy this, Mommy?”
His gaze was affixed to an unfamiliar necklace adorning his mother's neck.
Arissa stroked the necklace and explained, “Ah, this one. Your daddy bought it for me!”
Zachary shot Benjamin an approving glance. Daddy's wise enough to buy Mommy gifts now. He has improved.
Benjamin looked at his son and asked, “Does it look good on Mommy?”
“Of course! Mommy looks good in anything!” The pride in Zachary's voice was undeniable.
Benjamin's lips twitched in amusement. He would not argue with his son's statement, which he also believed to be the truth. “You're absolutely right. Everything looks great on her!”
Arissa was flattered by his antics, but she still teased, “Well, don't expect a compliment from me in return!”
She even shot him a cheeky look for good measure.
“Haha!” Kingsley failed to stifle his laughter at Arissa's words.
Benjamin glanced at him and raised the privacy screen.
The six children happily chattered away with Arissa at the back of the trailer.
As they neared the Old Manor, Gavin asked, “Mommy, are you nervous?”
Arissa shook her head and said reassuringly, “Not at all!”
“Hehe!” Gavin smiled brightly at her and declared, “Me neither!”
Zachary, Oliver, and Jasper eagerly voiced their agreement. “We're not nervous too!”
Their sister appeared less certain. She mumbled apologetically, “I'm a little nervous.”
Benjamin stroked her hair gently and said, “Once we're at your grandpa's, just stick close to your brothers and your mommy.”
Amid the commotion, Tim remained worryingly silent. Arissa asked anxiously, “Are you nervous, Tim?”
Chapter 1004
Tim shook his head in response to Arissa's question. He did not feel nervous until he set foot in the crowded Old Manor. Feeling unsettled, he plastered himself to Arissa for reassurance.
Noticing her son's distress, Arissa hugged him and coaxed, “It's all right. Just stay close to Daddy and me. Gavin, Zachary, and the others will always be nearby too. Don't worry about anyone else!”
It was normal for Tim to grow nervous as he had never seen such a large crowd.
Tim flushed with anxiety and asked, “Aren't you nervous, Mommy?”
Arissa smiled supportively and replied, “I wasn't nervous earlier, but you know what? I'm suddenly a bit nervous now!”
“Mommy! Now I feel a bit nervous too!” muttered Oliver in embarrassment.
He fidgeted and adjusted his glasses.
Benjamin looked at his family and asked, “Are you all ready?”
Their trailer had pulled up to the Old Manor some time ago. Kingsley and the driver had alighted, and Benjamin stayed behind to make sure his children and Arissa felt prepared for the meeting.
“I am!” Arissa said with a smile.
That earned her a dubious look from Benjamin, who teased, “Somehow, I get the feeling that you're the most nervous one in this car”!
“I'm not!” Arissa refuted, though a blush tinged her cheeks in protest.
The children laughed at her flustered state as Zachary pointed out the obvious, “You're nervous, Mommy!”
“That's enough!” Arissa said sternly.
Zachary tried his best to hide his giggle.
Benjamin tried to pinch Arissa's cheeks, but she evaded his touch and complained, “Don't touch me. You'll smudge my makeup.”
I didn't even bring a compact today.
He merely gazed at her and responded, “Your makeup is perfect. Don't worry. You'll be the most beautiful woman in the room today!”
Arissa's cheeks burned from his compliment. She covered up her embarrassment with a glare and a curt reply, “Let's go. Don't keep Dad waiting!”
Tickled by her response, Benjamin chuckled before leaving the trailer. Dozens of cameras flashed in his direction.
He frowned and shot Kingsley a sharp look.
The latter immediately understood the man's displeasure and hurriedly instructed the media photographers to switch off their camera flashlights.
Only then did Benjamin turn around to lift his children out of the trailer and help Arissa alight.
Darius was waiting for them nearby, and when the six children caught sight of him, they ran toward him excitedly, yelping, “Grandpa!”
Darius beamed at the sight of his adorable grandchildren. “You're finally here! I was wondering when you would arrive!” noveldrama
Friends, family, and media representatives had gathered at the Old Manor that night.
Everyone cooed over the six children and sighed over Darius' good fortune.
“Old Mr. Graham must be the luckiest man I know! Who else would suddenly gain five extra grandchildren at one go?”
“More accurately, he has four grandsons and one granddaughter.”
“Did you forget the grandson he introduced previously? That makes six! I would be tired from smiling all day if these six children were in my house!”
“They're such handsome boys; they definitely inherited their father's genes. And the young girl is an absolute doll.”
Darius reveled in his guests' praises. A smile was permanently plastered on his face.
He turned to the children and asked, “Where's your mommy?”
“Mommy's coming. She was in the car.”
At the same time, the children pointed in the trailer's direction.
“There, Grandpa. Mommy's getting out of the car!”
Benjamin was helping Arissa out of the trailer.
Curious glances were directed their way. Everyone wanted to know how the children's mother looked.
Their gazes lit up in understanding when they got a good look at Arissa.
It was no wonder the children were so beautiful; their parents were absolute lookers.
Meanwhile, Benjamin bent down to organize Arissa's skirts. She smiled gratefully at him and said, “Thank you.”
Benjamin glanced at her before slinging an arm around her waist. He whispered into her ear, “Follow me. Don't be nervous!”
She gave him a small nod and replied, “Okay! Let's go over and greet Dad!”
Before they made a move, Darius had approached them with a crowd in tow.
“Issa!”
Chapter 1005
Arissa smiled at Darius and greeted him somewhat apologetically, “Dad! Sorry, we're a little late.”
“Not at all! You're just in time. Come. Let me introduce you to the big Graham family!” Darius chuckled and pulled her away from Benjamin.
Then, he eagerly introduced the crowd of relatives behind him to Arissa.
“This is Benjamin's eldest brother, Bryan Graham, and his wife, Susanna.”
Arissa greeted them courteously, “Nice to meet you, Bryan, Susanna!”
“The pleasure is ours, Issa!”
The couple nodded and smiled at her. Susanna stuffed a thick envelope into Arissa's hand and added, “This is a small token from us to welcome you into the family, Issa!”
“Oh, uhm!” Arissa looked to Benjamin for help.
He remained stoically silent.
Susanna glanced at Benjamin's expression and insisted, “Please accept the gift. Don't worry about it!”
It was not as if Arissa had a choice since Susanna forcefully placed the monetary gift in her hand.
Benjamin continued to sport a wooden expression.
Meanwhile, Darius appeared to be pleased by Bryan and his wife's warm welcome. He moved on to introducing the couple's child to Arissa. “This here is Bryan and Susanna's son.”
“Hello, Uncle Benjamin and Aunt Arissa!” Arissa found herself greeted enthusiastically by a man who stood beside Bryan and Susanna and looked older than her.
“Hello!” Arissa smiled at her nephew while fretting over her lack of foresight to prepare gifts for the night.
Benjamin guessed her thoughts and leaned into her, advising, “Don't sweat about it. Just impress them with what you've got!”
She cast him a sidelong glance in response.
There were more relatives for Darius to introduce. “Issa, meet Benjamin's second eldest brother, Nick, his wife, and his son.”
“Great to see you, Issa!” Nick Graham welcomed her with a broad smile.
This was Arissa's first time meeting him, and she instinctively took him as a smiling, sly fox. Yes, pretty sure I got that right.
She concealed her thoughts perfectly and returned Nick's smile. “Hello, Nick!”
Despite knowing they were far from loving brothers to Benjamin, Arissa was shrewd enough to spare them friendly smiles in public. After all, Darius had made the effort to personally introduce her to the Graham family.
“Welcome to the family! This is my monetary gift to you. Don't lose it!”
Nick took a cash-filled envelope from his wife and handed it to Arissa.
“You're too kind, Nick! Thank you.”
“You're very welcome!” As he spoke, Nick shot Benjamin a furtive glance.noveldrama
He was met with his younger brother's inscrutable gaze.
Nick's expression stiffened, though he quickly composed himself and commented, “I'm impressed, Benjamin! You brought home a wife and so many kids in tow. Dad is overjoyed!”
Benjamin harrumphed lightly and retorted, “That's because luck is on our side!”
Nick froze and discreetly examined Benjamin's expression. He laughed and asked, “Whatever do you mean, Benjamin?”
Their father stared at them, blissfully ignorant of the events of last night. Benjamin had made sure the news did not make its way to Darius, worried it would keep the old man up the entire night with anxiety.
Having decided to keep his father in the dark, Benjamin replied cryptically to Nick, “You must know better!”
Darius cautioned the two brothers, “What are the two of you discussing so seriously? Today's supposed to be a joyous occasion.”
Then, he turned away and continued parading Arissa around the numerous Graham relatives. She did not expect herself to remember everyone's names after a single meeting and dutifully greeted them based on her father-in-law's introductions.
She had amassed an impressive stack of cash-filled envelopes, and Benjamin was happy to hold them for her.
After Arissa had been properly introduced, it was time for her six children to make the rounds.
“They're Benjamin's kids. Look out for them if you can. Don't let anyone pick on them!”
Everyone acknowledged Darius' wishes immediately. “Yes!”
Friends and family alike then busied themselves handing presents and monetary gifts to the children, who celebrated their windfall.
Tim was initially hesitant about accepting the gifts and only kept them after spotting an encouraging nod from Arissa.
“The children are adorable!” They had clearly won over everyone's hearts.
Shaun and Jonathan were also in attendance and helped Kingsley to hold onto the children's presents.
Chapter 1006
“Thank you, Grandpa, Grandma...”
One by one, the six children began packing and thanking everyone in an adorable manner, a sight that would warm the hearts of anyone who saw them.
Arissa was pleased to see how popular the children were.
“All right now, it's about time we visit the ancestral shrine.” noveldrama
Upon hearing Darius' remark, everyone began to get moving.
Thereafter, Darius ordered, “Benjamin, lead them there.”
“Yes, Dad,” Benjamin replied with a nod.
After grabbing Arissa's hand, he turned around and shouted, “Kids, we're heading to the ancestral shrine.”
“Okay!” The six children quickly gathered behind their parents.
At the same time, Kingsley, Shaun, and Jonathan followed closely behind to help keep an eye on them.
On top of that, they kept the children away from those in the crowd who wanted to tease them.
As for Ethen and Jack, who were in charge of the Old Manor's security, they stayed close to Benjamin's side.
Noticing the heightened vigilance, Darius turned around to ask Benjamin, “Did something happen?”
“No.” Benjamin returned Darius' look but didn't say anything.
Faced with Benjamin's refusal to share and his inability to detect anything after scrutinizing his son's face, Darius continued leading the group to pay respect to their ancestors.
“Mr. Bailey, how is Great-grandaunt today?” Tim inquired with Shaun.
“She's doing very well.”
Shaun gave his head an affectionate stroke. All of Benjamin's kids are really good-looking.
When Tim responded with a delighted smile, it melted the hearts of the men around him.
Thereafter, Kingsley carried Tim in his arms.
“Tim, are you nervous to see so many people around?”
“Not anymore!” Tim replied shyly as his eyes scanned the surroundings.
When Gavin and the rest turned around to check on him, they were equally elated to see him happy.
Jonathan, who was carrying Jesse, treasured the moment. “Jesse, you look great today!”
She truly looked like a Barbie Doll.
“Thank you, Mr. Patterson, you look extraordinarily handsome today too!” Jesse's childish voice made her look and sound adorable.
“Haha...” The usually stern Jonathan couldn't help but chuckle as he gave Jesse's nose an affectionate tweak.
“Gavin, come over here!” Darius suddenly shouted from the front.
Gavin subsequently called out, “Tim, Jesse, let's all join Grandpa at his side!”
“Okay!”
When the two children insisted on being set down, Kingsley and Jonathan had no choice but to comply.
With that, the six children ran up to the front.
“Grandpa!”
“Hi!”
With the children in tow, Darius was so ecstatic that his eyes brimmed with affection.
Arissa, who was watching them, continued to smile throughout the entire episode.
As he held Arissa's hand, Benjamin's gaze was also locked on the children.
However, his brothers' families, who were behind them, felt bitter about it.
“Look at how Dad dotes on the children!” Susanna complained softly to Bryan.
The look in her eyes was no longer as friendly as when Arissa saw her earlier.
“Hmph, of course. They're his favorites!”
Bryan snorted in disdain.
When Nick heard them from behind, a smirk emerged on his face.
Watching Benjamin and the six children triggered an insidious glint in his eyes.
“Dad is really biased. He has never loved our children the same way even though they're his grandchildren too.”
Nick's wife felt equally indignant. However, her rant drew a glare from him instantly.
“Have you forgotten what today's occasion is? You had better mind your tongue!” Nick warned her.
As the group arrived at the ancestral shrine, there was a small plaza in front of it that could accommodate a thousand people.
Darius had invited all the Graham family relatives, near and distant, and also close friends from other prominent families to gather there.
Hence, anyone who was in any way connected to the Graham family was in attendance.
Chapter 1007
The packed plaza made for a festive atmosphere.
Earlier, Darius had only brought the close relatives to receive Benjamin and his group. As for the rest of the guests, they were all waiting in the plaza.
Meanwhile, Arissa was in awe at the number of people gathered. She had already found the earlier crowd to be big. Little did she expect to find even more people here.
“Are you surprised?” Benjamin asked in amusement when he noticed her reaction.
Arissa glanced at him. “A little.”
With his lips curling slightly, Benjamin tightened his grasp on her as he whispered, “All you need to do is maintain a polite smile and leave the rest to me.”
When Arissa shot him a look of surprise, he cocked a brow in response. “Do you not believe me?”
Arissa was amused. “Of course I do!”
Benjamin's gaze became more intent when he saw the vibrant smile on her face. “Have you lost your courage? Why are you cowed with so few people around?”
The speechless Arissa felt her lips twitch. What does he mean by a few? There are more than a thousand people gathered here! Does he think everyone has this many relatives? Besides, I'm not used to being stared at by so many people.
“Look, the children are adapting better than you are!”
Arissa let out a chuckle before she teased, “Do you think everyone has the same amount of exposure as you do?”
Wearing a slight smile, Benjamin led her to Darius' side.
Meanwhile, everything at the shrine was ready and awaiting their arrival.
“Benjamin, Issa, come here quickly!”
Darius urged them to hurry up as the six children were already by his side.
“Coming!” Arissa acknowledged his call as she strode forward with Benjamin following closely behind.
Together with his family and all their extended relatives, Darius paid respect to their ancestors.
Half an hour later, the ceremony came to an end.
Filled with elation, Darius declared, “Since everyone is here today, I would like to introduce Benjamin, his wife, and his children to those who have yet to see them. Going forward, don't allow them to come to any harm!”
Everyone knew that was Darius' way of telling them to show Arissa respect and not bully their family.
“We understand,” the crowd replied in unison.
“Whoever bullies them will have to answer to me personally!” Darius broke into hearty laughter.
With that, all their relatives, young and old alike, came over to play with the six children.
Given how popular the children were and the fact that they were relatives, everyone fought for the opportunity to carry them in their arms.
Gavin, who didn't like being carried, quickly hid behind his parents. Afraid of strangers, Tim, too, pulled his sister along to hide alongside their elder brother. noveldrama
As for the cool-looking Zachary, he reluctantly obliged the crowd even though he disliked being carried by others.
Jasper and Oliver, who were the most easygoing among the children, had no problems with the interaction at all.
Although no one got to carry Gavin, Tim, and Jesse, many still came to play with them.
In the meantime, the relatives also gave Arissa monetary gifts for the occasion.
Since she didn't know any of them, all she could do was thank them with a smile.
“Do you know them?” she asked Benjamin curiously.
He lowered his gaze to glance at her. “No, I don't.”
Arissa was dumbfounded.
Standing right beside her, Benjamin exuded a distinguished yet domineering aura. Hence, both the younger and older generation were generally intimidated by him. Once they had greeted him, they would quickly move on to chat with Darius.
“Mr. Graham!”
Ethen approached Benjamin as if he had something to report.
Even though Arissa was looking at them, Benjamin didn't leave her side, as he didn't want her to be alone. All he did was bend forward slightly and signal Ethen to whisper in his ear.
“Mr. Graham, the police are at the door,” Ethen informed.
A gloomy look flashed across Benjamin's eyes, but he felt hesitant when he noticed how happy Darius was.
However, upon taking in how Nick was looking at the children, Benjamin's eyes narrowed.
He ordered in a grim voice, “Let them in.”
“Understood!” Ethen went off to deal with the matter.
Chapter 1008
Noticing the change in his expression, Arissa asked softly, “Did something happen?”
“Enjoy the upcoming show!”
When Benjamin gave her a look without explaining, Arissa was bemused.
What is he talking about?
The indiscernible look on his face simply caused her to purse her lips.
In the meantime, Benjamin broke into an icy smile when his gaze suddenly met Nick's.
When Nick saw the knowing look on Benjamin's face, his expression froze while his hair inexplicably stood on end.
“Benjamin, I heard that you have gotten in the way of Bryan's business?”
Nick walked over, wearing a cunning smile on his face.
Arissa's brows furrowed slightly. Is this what Benjamin was talking about?
Benjamin replied with an icy gaze, “It only shows how incompetent he is from a business perspective.”
Those around who heard his words were utterly flabbergasted. Only Benjamin was brazen enough to not show Bryan any respect at all.
It went without saying that Bryan heard what was said, causing a gloomy expression to descend upon his face.
Initially, he had no intention of coming but only did so out of his obligation as the eldest son of the Graham family. Otherwise, he would end up as a subject of ridicule.
Since everyone in attendance was a relative, his absence would only further elevate Benjamin's prestige.
“Benjamin, how can you speak so disrespectfully? Don't forget that I'm your elder brother still!”
Despite his fearsome outburst and the fact that he was old enough to be Benjamin's father, the gravitas Bryan exuded was inferior to that of his brother.
Humiliation filled Bryan after Benjamin publicly disparaged him.
Nevertheless, Benjamin refused to dial his mockery down. “I'm just stating the facts.”
Pfft!
Kingsley and the others could barely contain their laughter.
With a drastic change in expression, Bryan would have lunged at Benjamin if Nick hadn't held him back. Even if the latter didn't, Bryan was still no match for Benjamin in a fight. noveldrama
“Why are you arguing out of the blue again?”
The stern-looking Darius came over and glared at the brothers.
Are they trying to give me a heart attack?
Amidst the soft muttering of friends and family, Darius swept a piercing gaze across their faces as he thundered, “I'll kick whoever causes trouble out of here!”
Bryan was filled with indignance when his eyes met Darius' accusatory gaze.
“Dad, he scolded me first. How can I not fight back? Even if you're biased, this is just taking it too far!”
“You b*stard, how dare you have the cheek to be angry? If you hadn't gotten on Benjamin's nerves, why would he attack you? Do you think you're right to cause so much conflict within the family?”
Darius was outraged to see the family discord laid out in the open.
Doesn't he know what day it is today? He must be making my life difficult on purpose.
Having blown his lid, Bryan was about to confront Darius when Nick hurriedly held him back and attempted to defuse the situation.
“Bryan, calm down. There's no point in losing your temper with Dad. Don't disgrace yourself in public.”
“Didn't you see how biased Dad was toward Benjamin? What am I supposed to do? Am I to just sit idly by as Benjamin ridicules me?”
Bryan was speaking in a voice loud enough for many others to hear it.
“B*stard!”
Darius slammed his walking stick on the ground as he glowered at Bryan.
“Dad?”
Even though Bryan was cowed by his father's intimidating gaze, he continued to put up a strong front on account of his pride.
“Whose son are you? Who was it that raised you?” Darius raged.
“Grandpa...”
Terrified by the outburst, the children retreated behind Arissa.
“It's all right,” Arissa comforted them as she moved them back to her side.
“Dad, calm down.”
As Benjamin came forward to stroke his father's back, Darius shot him a glare.
“You, too, should keep a lid on yourself. Don't you know how important today is?”
Benjamin fell silent while maintaining a calm look on his face.
“Are all of you trying to kill me?” Darius panted in anger.
After receiving the glass of water William had brought, Benjamin fed it to his father.
“Calm down and drink some water. You'll be in for something more shocking later.”
Turning to face Benjamin, Darius questioned through gritted teeth, “What did you say?”
Chapter 1009
“Come on, have some water,” Benjamin coaxed Darius steadily.
While giving Benjamin a stern look, Darius drank the water.
It was then that Ethen arrived with the police.
They walked up to Nick professionally. “Mr. Nick Graham, please come with us.”
In that instant, silence descended upon the bustling plaza. One by one, the crowd looked in Nick's direction, wondering what was going on.
Just as expected of a cunning old fox, Nick was still a sea of calm as he swept his gaze across the few police officers.
“Officers, have you made a mistake? My husband hasn't broken the law. You can't arrest him just like that!”
Nick's wife came forward and held on to him tightly, worried that he would be taken away.
“Mr. Benjamin's car accident last night was planned by someone. We would like Mr. Nick to come with us to facilitate our investigations. As long as your husband is innocent, we'll definitely release him.”
The crowd immediately chattered among themselves.
“Car accident?”
“Benjamin was involved in an accident?”
“I haven't heard anything about it!”noveldrama
“I-Is Nick the one behind it?”
“Perhaps. Haven't Nick and Bryan been at odds with Benjamin all this while? Now that the cops are here, I think there's probably truth to the matter.”
“Brothers trying to kill one another... Since when has the Graham family ever seen such unfilial sons?”
Brows furrowed, Darius questioned the police in a quavering voice, “What did you say? Benjamin was involved in a car accident?”
After staring at the police, Darius shifted his attention to Benjamin. Why didn't he tell me something as important as that? Also, why didn't I hear anything about it?
“Yes, Old Mr. Graham. On his way back to Yaleview from the Old Manor last night, Mr. Benjamin was hit by a large truck at a junction. If not for his proficient driving skills, he and his family might not have survived....”
The officer related the details of the accident to Darius.
Stunned by the news, Darius began to swoon as his face lost all color. Noticing his reaction, Benjamin quickly helped his father maintain his balance.
After grabbing tightly onto Benjamin's hand, Darius took a while to recover from the shock.
“Benjamin, why didn't you tell me?”
Darius' voice was choked as the thought of what could have happened sent a chill down his spine.
Benjamin was with Issa and the six children last night. If anything had happened to them...
Before Darius even had the courage to think of the consequences, he felt a tight squeeze in his heart.
“I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to worry. We're all fine anyway. Arissa and the children simply knocked their heads,” Benjamin explained.
“Issa, where are you hurt?” Darius gave Arissa a look of concern.
Moved by the gesture, Arissa walked up to Darius. “Dad, I'm fine. Look, it's just a scratch.”
When Darius inspected the wound, he could still see a scab on it, making it appear serious to him.
Arissa hadn't put a bandage on it. With her hair covering the wound, no one would know unless she revealed it herself.
“That's not a scratch at all! Why didn't you tell me about it? If I had known, I would have postponed today's ceremony.”
Darius was overwhelmed with guilt. After leaving Arissa in Benjamin's care, he walked up to Nick with a grave expression.
“Be honest with me. Did you do this?”
“Dad, I—”
Barely had Nick spoken when Darius gave him a slap.
Slap!
It was one where Darius didn't hold back.
The thundering clap struck fear into everyone present. The thousand friends and relatives present were subsequently cowed into silence.
“You b*stard! How dare you harm your own brother. I'm going to kill you for this!”
Regardless of his schemes, Nick was still fearful of Darius.
This was the first time his father was so harsh to him. Previously, his elder brother was the only one who had been brought up with a strict hand.
Now that Darius had struck him before the results of the investigation were out, Nick figured that his father would kill him upon learning the truth.
Despite being gripped by panic, Nick denied his involvement.
“How can you say that I'm responsible before the investigation is completed? Dad, you're making a baseless accusation!”
Chapter 1010
“I can only hope you're not the culprit!” Darius warned Nick.
Then, he turned around and pleaded with the policeman, “Please conduct a thorough investigation to find out who attempted to harm Benjamin.”
“Rest assured, Old Mr. Graham. We will look into this. Please take care of your health.”
Darius was a retired commander, so he was highly respected among the police.
Darius nodded. “Thank you for your hard work.”
“You're welcome. In that case, we'll bring Mr. Nick back so that he can cooperate with us in our investigation,” the policeman notified Darius.
Darius waved his hand while glancing at Nick sternly.
“Bring him away. Do keep me updated regardless of the outcome.”
“In that case, we shall take our leave and stop disturbing you.”
The police gestured at Nick to follow them.
Nick tidied his clothes and had no choice but to comply.
“Nick!”
Nick's wife went after him in distress.
“Why are you following me? Stay here. It's not like I'll be detained forever!” He glared at his wife.
“Y-You...”
Nick's wife was overwrought as she witnessed her husband being taken away by the police. She hurriedly turned around to beg Darius, “Dad, how could you let them take Nick away? There's no way he would do something like this—”
“Do you think the police will wrong him if he's innocent?” Darius grimaced in anger. At the same time, his heart ached. The police wouldn't have come here to seize him if they hadn't gotten any definite leads.
He suddenly clutched his chest as his vision turned black.
“Dad!” Arissa cried out and lurched forward.
Benjamin was one step ahead of her. He grabbed Darius while searching the latter's pocket for his heart medication. He fed his father the pill and simultaneously called out to Shaun in anxiety.
“Shaun! Hurry up!”
Shaun hastened over to rescue Darius.
“Benjamin, send him to the hospital at once!”
“Ethen, get the car ready now!” Benjamin shouted.
He carried Darius on his back and ran toward the main house.
“Jack, grab the oxygen tank!” Shaun shouted at Jack while running after Benjamin.
There was an oxygen tank stored in the Graham family's old manor.
“I'll go!” Jonathan dashed toward the main house.
“Me too.” Kingsley swiftly trailed behind Jonathan.
In an instant, pandemonium reigned at the venue.
Not bothering to greet the other relatives, Arissa brought her six children and hurriedly got into a car behind Benjamin's to hurry to the hospital.
Bryan and his family, Nick's wife and her children, the Graham family's relatives, and members of the Bailey, Patterson, and Watts families stood outside the emergency room's entrance.
Arissa wore a concerned look while hugging her six children.
The six kids also stared worriedly at the emergency room's entrance with reddened eyes.
Grimacing in distress, Benjamin gazed fixedly at the door.
Kingsley and Jonathan patted Benjamin's shoulder after taking in the latter's demeanor.
“Old Mr. Graham will be fine since Shaun is here.”
Benjamin frowned. Did I make the wrong decision? If something terrible happens to Dad...
He clenched his fists.
“Mommy, Grandpa will be okay, right?”
Jesse couldn't contain her emotions as she feared her grandfather wouldn't survive. She sniffled with tears staining her eyelashes.
Gavin, Tim, Zachary, Oliver, and Jasper also bit their lips to suppress their urge to cry.
The kids were frightened as that was their first time seeing someone so dear to them passing out. Panic and helplessness filled them.
Arissa held them tightly in her arms and comforted them, “Things will be fine. Your grandpa merely fainted from agitation. He'll recover.”
Susanna glanced at Arissa and uttered sarcastically, “If it weren't for all of you, would Dad have become like this? If he doesn't get better, all of you are guilty too.” I don't believe Benjamin hadn't deliberately summoned the police over.
Arissa knitted her brows. Before she could respond, Benjamin's cold voice sounded.
“Are you hoping my dad doesn't survive this predicament?” noveldrama
Susanna shuddered when she met Benjamin's menacing gaze. The color drained from her face as she hastily retorted, “I didn't say that.”
“In that case, I suggest you shut up!” Benjamin warned her threateningly.