Ch. 971..980

Chapter 971 His Face So Close

Arissa embarrassedly stepped into the passenger’s seat. “Look! Mommy’s feeling shy!”

“Haha!” “I can see Mommy’s red face!” The edges of Arissa’s mouth twitched as she glared at the man standing at the front of the car. Why are the children only making fun of me? It’s not fair!

Benjamin was amused when he met her gaze. Then, he ordered, “Gavin, bring your siblings into the car!” He proceeded to open the door to the backseats and carried them into the vehicle. “Sit tight!”

The children placed their bags before their feet and fastened their seatbelts. Benjamin had to help Jesse and Tim do it, but the other four were capable of performing the action themselves.

After he double-checked the kids’ seatbelts, he shut the door tight. Arissa glanced at her children through the rearview mirror.

“We’re seated, Mommy!” the children abruptly shouted. As she remained silent, Jasper wriggled in his seat and uttered teasingly, “Mommy’s still feeling embarrassed!”

The other children laughed. When Benjamin entered the vehicle, he turned to Arissa, stared at her flushed cheeks for a few moments, and leaned toward her.

Arissa’s head snapped up as she watched him warily. “Buckle your seatbelt!” As he fastened her seatbelt for her, his face was so close to hers that they almost touched.

His breath brushed past her face, sending a tingling sensation throughout her body as his familiar scent enveloped her intimately.

When straightening his body, Benjamin’s lips brushed lightly against her cheek. Shocked, Arissa widened her eyes at him while he casually buckled his own seatbelt and started the engine.

“Sit tight!” he reminded. “Okay!” the children exclaimed energetically. “You too.” Benjamin turned his sight toward Arissa.

She muttered, “I am.” With a faint grin, he drove out of the garage.

Arissa felt her heart racing as she admired his countenance. Am I too weak-willed? Or is he just too handsome?

The moment she looked away and shifted her gaze out of the window, she unintentionally spotted Miranda hiding at the side of the road staring at the company’s entrance.

Arissa narrowed her eyes while a mocking look swirled within them. Miranda never changes, huh? I can’t believe she waited here for such a long time just to meet me. But still, why is she waiting for me? I don’t think she came to mend our relationship, so she’s here for another reason.

Benjamin glimpsed at her. “Did they use to bully you in the past?”

That question snapped her back to her senses. As she gazed at him, she wondered, Is Miranda targeting Benjamin stead? It’s not impossible. Why else would she be camping there?

“I’m talking to you!” he voiced.

“Yeah!” In the past, when she still longed for love from her family members, she would be saddened whenever they bullied her. Now that I think about it, my past feels like it took place centuries ago. It’s so insignificant that it’s not worth mentioning.

Benjamin’s eyes darkened. “Do you still care about them?”

Arissa shook her head decisively. I’m not stupid or a masochist. If Regan doesn’t see me as his daughter, then there’s no need for me to keep holding on to this blood relationship. Now, since they keep messing with me, I won’t keep quiet and do nothing if they tick me off.

“That’s good!” Upon turning on his Bluetooth earphone, Benjamin ordered coldly, “Get rid of the woman loitering in front of the company!”

His action touched Arissa. I’m grateful that the person I met was him. Otherwise, I’d be in a lot of trouble if I offended him.

“Just ask them to get rid of anyone you don’t want to look at,” he reminded her because he didn’t want her to be frustrated by such trivial matters.

“Got it!” she replied gratefully.

Chapter 972 We Are Your Support

The children knitted their eyebrows when they heard their parents’ conversation. Gavin and Tim questioned, “Who bullied you, Mommy?”

Jasper spoke too. “Who is it, Mommy? I’ll help you teach them a lesson!” “Is someone bullying you again, Mommy?” Zachary wondered.

“Tell us who it is, Mommy. We’ll help you teach them a lesson!” Oliver spat. Jesse waved her tiny fists and punched the air, saying, “I’ll kill whoever dares to bully Mommy!”

Arissa turned to look at her children and saw their angry faces. The sight of that warmed her heart. “It’s Miranda. I don’t know how she knew I was working here. Apparently, she followed me and waited at the company’s entrance, refusing to leave.”

“Who’s Miranda?” Tim asked in confusion. Gavin had no idea who that was either.

The other four kids, however, knew who Miranda was.

“It’s Regan’s illegitimate child,” Zachary informed with disdain, not intending to conceal his hatred toward Miranda.

Gavin and Tim exchanged a glance. At that moment, they had an inkling of who she was.

As they turned their gaze toward the company, they vaguely saw a woman standing at the side of the road. Is that woman Miranda?

“Yes, she’s Regan’s daughter!” Arissa added, explaining to Tim and Gavin.

“If she bullies you, you should bully her back. Don’t worry, Mommy. We’re your strongest supports!” Gavin patted his chest.

The edges of Arissa’s lips curved upward as she nodded. “Thank you, Sweetheart! No need to worry about me, though. She can’t bully me right now.”

Zachary glanced at his mother and sighed. “We are worried, Mommy. You’re too softhearted, which you shouldn’t be because you’ll get taken advantage of.”

“I won’t!” she promised the kids.

“Did that woman meet you today?”

“She came looking for me, but I didn’t meet with her.”

“That’s right. You don’t need to,” Zachary reminded.

“Meeting people like her will do you no good. Just ignore her!” Oliver adjusted his glasses, putting on a serious countenance.

Tim and Gavin nodded in agreement.

Jesse and Jasper pouted and scolded lividly, “They’re so shameless! Why won’t they leave Mommy alone?”

In response to their rage, Arissa calmed them down. “All right, that’s enough. Let’s not talk about them anymore. It’ll affectour mood.

”

“We’re fine, Mommy. You, on the other hand, shouldn’t let people like them affect your mood!” Gavin reminded with a worried look.

Nodding, she assured, “I know.”

Benjamin glimpsed at his wife through the rearview mirror and smiled faintly.

The moment she noticed the look in his eyes, she blushed.

It was then her phone vibrated. Upon picking the device up, she realized Darius was calling her.

She answered the call right away. “Dad!”

Benjamin’s line of sight landed briefly on her before shifting back to the road.

“Are you and Benjamin back yet, Issa?” Darius asked.

Smiling, Arissa replied, “We’re on our way. The children are with us, too!”

“That’s good. I thought Benjamin wasn’t going to bring you lot back.” He laughed heartily, sounding like he was in a good mood.

“He told me about it this morning.” She peered at Benjamin, who was concentrating on driving.

“I see. We’ll talk more when you all arrive.”

“Okay. See you later, Dad!” Arissa replied softly.

She kept her phone away after Darius hung up.

“Is Grandpa rushing us, Mommy?” Gavin asked with a juvenile voice, swaying his legs.

Tim and the others stared at her unblinkingly.

Arissa, grinning, said, “Yes, he was afraid your Daddy won’t bring us back!”

Chapter 973 Meal Together

Darius was already waiting for Arissa and her family at the entrance by the time they arrived. William and a bunch of housekeepers were by his side.

The woman was touched by the scene. It wasn’t the first time they visited the residence, yet Darius would always wait for them at the entrance.

“Does Dad always wait for you all to come over like that in the past?” Arissa asked. Benjamin glanced at her, lifting the corners of his lips. “He only does it for you!”

She grinned as she carried the gift she had prepared beforehand. Dad treats me so nicely.

Before the car even stopped, Jasper, who was sitting next to the door, rolled down the window, poked his head out, and greeted his grandfather. “Grandpa!”

“Welcome back!” Darius beamed as he stared at his grandchild. Oliver also stuck his head out of the window and shouted at the old man, “We’re all back, Grandpa!”

“Good!” The old man’s wrinkles deepened as he smiled. Arissa reminded, “Sit tight!”

Oliver and Jasper stuck their tongues out before returning to their seats. While the rest of the children didn’t squeeze their way toward the window, they did stretch their necks to gaze at the scene outside.

As the vehicle slowed down, all the kids eagerly unbuckled their seatbelts, opened the door, and exited the car.

Arissa was amused. “Slow down!”

“We missed you, Grandpa!” Jasper said sweetly and was the first to throw himself into Darius’ arms, followed by the rest of his siblings.

Darius, William, and the housekeepers hugged the kids joyously.

Benjamin and Arissa were delighted to witness that scene from the car.

“Let’s join them!” he uttered before stepping out of the vehicle and opening the door for her.

As she exited the car while holding the present, he held her waist, closed the door, and brought her over to Darius.

“Dad!” Arissa greeted.

“Dad!” Benjamin followed suit, but those who weren’t in the know would think he was the son-in-law.

Beaming, Darius welcomed them amicably, “I’m glad you are all back. Come, let’s head inside! We’ll eat after you all wash your hands!”

“This is for you, Dad!” Hastily, Arissa handed the present to him.

His eyes lit up as he accepted the gift. “You didn’t have to!”

Despite his words, he was over the moon to receive it.

“I must. This is the first gift I got for you as your daughter-in-law.”

“Very well, then. I shall accept your gift. Now, let’s head into the house!”

When Darius glanced at his son, he noticed the latter was answering a call.

Hence, he frowned in response. “Why is he still talking on the phone when he’s back home for a meal? Come on, let’s go inside first.”

He gestured for Arissa and her children to follow him in.

Elated to see their grandfather, the children surrounded him and chattered ceaselessly.

The manor became livelier with their presence.

Arissa glimpsed at Benjamin, who gestured for her to enter the building first when he met her gaze.

“Wrap up your call as soon as possible!” she reminded in a low voice before striding into the house.

Dinner was already prepared, and as soon as they stepped into the house, Darius prompted them to wash their hands first.

Benjamin still hadn’t come in even after Arissa and the children finished cleaning their hands.

Thus, she glanced at the entrance and stated, “I’m going to take a look at Benjamin, Dad!”

“Ignore him. If he wants to make a call, then let him. Once he’s done, he’ll be back,” Darius uttered as he fetched soup for his grandchildren. “Have some soup first, Sweethearts! Take it easy, okay? Don’t burn yourself!”

“Thank you, Grandpa!” The children expressed their gratitude in unison. Their adorable voices really enraptured him.

Chapter 974 I Was Wrong

“You should eat too, Dad. Let them be. They can take care of themselves,” Arissa advised. “All right, all right.” Darius sat and offered, “Pick whatever you want to eat, Issa.”

“I know, Dad. I won’t hold back!” “Haha!” As Darius laughed, he swept his gaze across his son. “If she can’t reach a certain dish, help her grab it.”

“Okay.” Benjamin nodded. Gleefully, Darius ate as he watched his grandchildren enjoying their meal with satisfaction. Arissa kept her eyes on them too, smiling widely.

Benjamin leaned toward Arissa and whispered next to her ear, “What are you looking at? You should eat too!” Upon hearing his words, she shifted her gaze away from the children to look at him. “I am eating!”

She was pleased when he put some food on her plate. In response, she did the same for him. “You should eat more, too!” Her action cheered him up so much that the food he had gotten used to eat tasted better than usual.

Then, as Arissa looked around the dining table, she found it weird that the other members of the Graham family weren’t around. We’ve come here for meals multiple times, but we were always the only ones here. We never saw the other members of the Graham family, which is rather odd.

All of a sudden, she felt a sense of pain strike her head. As soon as Arissa turned to Benjamin, she saw him retracting his hand. Confused, she questioned, “Why did you hit me?”

“Focus on your food. What are you thinking?” He glared at her. The edges of her mouth twitched. Can he read my mind? I can’t believe he caught me zoning out briefly.

“Nothing,” she replied, pouting. A look of amusement flashed past Benjamin’s eyes as he took note of how annoyed she was.

Darius’ expression darkened when he witnessed the couple’s interaction and admonished, “Why did you hit Issa, Benjamin? You should be more mindful of your actions.”

Snickering in secret, Arissa lowered her hand that was touching her forehead.

Gloomily, Benjamin glimpsed at her before turning his sight toward his father. “I was just messing around with her!”

The old man scoffed, “Messing around? Do you think I’m blind or deaf?”

“That’s right! We saw you hitting Mommy!” Gavin furiously reprimanded.

Silently, Benjamin turned to his wife and asked, “Did it hurt?”

Arissa blinked wordlessly.

“Don’t you threaten Issa! Are you still a man? How can you bully your wife?” Darius slammed the table with rage.

In response, Benjamin pursed his lips.

Arissa lowered her head and stifled her laughter. It’s your fault for hitting me!

Upon flashing a glance in her direction, Benjamin looked at his father. “I was wrong, Dad. I won’t hit her again!”

Darius stared at him seriously. “You shouldn’t have done it in the first place!”

Instead of arguing with his father, Benjamin merely nodded subserviently.

Arissa focused on her meal and ignored the father-and-son duo.

Halfway through their meal, the sound of a car engine was suddenly heard outside the door.

Darius was taken aback for a moment before gesturing for William to check out who the visitor was.

Moments later, William returned and reported, “It’s Mr. Bryan, Old Mr. Graham.”

“What is he doing here?” Darius scowled.

Clearly, he didn’t want to see Bryan.

Benjamin’s eyes glinted.

A few minutes passed before Bryan strode into the dining room and started yelling at Benjamin. “You sure are ruthless, Benjamin! Don’t think you can act impudently just because Dad loves you! I won’t let you off the hook unless you give me an explanation today!”

A frigid look flashed past Benjamin’s eyes. No one has ever had the guts to speak to me like that!

“You’re the impudent one here!” Darius slapped the dining table, rattling the plates and bowls.

The children and Arissa didn’t have the nerve to keep eating as they watched the family drama unfold fearfully.

Furiously, Darius berated, “Do you realize how disrespectful you’re acting right now? Do you think you’re in the right just because you started yelling right after you came in here?”

 

Chapter 975

“Dad.” Bryan controlled his temper and greeted his father.

“Oh, now you remember I'm your father? If I hadn't said anything, would you have acknowledged me?” Darius spat.

The edges of Bryan's lips twitched. Stifling his fury, he explained, “How can you say that, Dad? It's Benjamin's fault. He's the reason I'm angry.”

“What are you angry about? Did he do something wrong? Even if he did, you're partly in the wrong for shouting like a madman soon after arriving here. You are his elder brother, so act like one!” The old man glared at Bryan.

Frustrated, Bryan argued, “Can you stop being so biased, Dad? My family business is on the verge of collapse!”

Then, he glowered at his younger brother. “If Benjamin hadn't targeted me, I wouldn't have been this angry!”

Calmly, Benjamin wiped the corners of his lips.

However, before he could say anything, Darius spoke up. “Don't think I have no idea what you did just because I don't concern myself with the family business anymore! You only have yourself to blame for what happened because you schemed against your brother first!”

Bryan's expression changed.

“Your inability to continue running the family business speaks of your incompetence! If there's nothing else, get out of our sight! Don't you see we're eating here?” The scowling old man didn't at all care

whether his eldest son had dinner yet or not.

Frowning, Bryan glanced at the table and was stunned when he saw six children with identical faces. Are they all Benjamin's kids?

They all wore a grimace on their countenances, clearly expressing their disdain for him.

It was only natural that they disliked their uncle, who shouted at and seemingly bullied their father.

“Dad, this is...” Bryan swept his gaze past the dining table and noticed Arissa's unfamiliar face. Is she their mother?

“She's Arissa York, your sister-in-law and the mother of the sextuplets!” Darius introduced. “Issa, he's my eldest son, Bryan!”

“Hello, Bryan!” Arissa stood to greet him but was dragged back down to her seat by her husband.

“Don't act so friendly toward him! He doesn't see you as part of the family!” Benjamin uttered.

While Arissa felt awkward, Bryan's expression turned even gloomier. “Can you not put words into my mouth, Benjamin? Who says I don't treat you all as part of the family?”

Glaring coldly at his older brother, Benjamin snapped, “You should listen to what you're saying!”

The man didn't even think of showing respect to Bryan, who was the eldest child of the family.

Bryan promptly flew into a rage when he noticed his brother's mocking smile. “Do you treat me as part of the family, then? You do realize you're driving me into a corner, right?”

In response, Benjamin smirked. “Did I do something?”

Bryan was stumped. Sure, he didn't, but what he's allowing to happen is crueler than what he would've done! Those people will flock to whoever is capable of granting them benefits! noveldrama

“When it comes to businesses, it's every man for himself!” Gazing at him icily, Benjamin roared, “You were the one who tested my limits, so don't blame me for retaliating!”

“You!” Bryan was livid. I know how ruthless he can be, but I didn't expect he would actually take action against me!

“There are some things you shouldn't covet!”

Bryan was rendered speechless by his brother's retort.

“Why are the two of you bickering over such a trivial matter? You may not want to eat, but we do!” Darius reprimanded Bryan. It wasn't easy to get Benjamin back here for dinner, yet Bryan's here to ruin everything!

With a foul expression, Bryan sat at the dining table. “I haven't eaten yet!”

Subsequently, he glared at his brother again. “How does ruining me benefit you in any way, Benjamin?”

Benjamin couldn't be bothered to quarrel with him, so he responded wordlessly by putting on a mocking expression.

“Are you here to eat or annoy us? If you don't want to eat, get out of here! I didn't invite you home for dinner!” Darius bellowed angrily once again.

Bryan glowered when he noticed his father was on Benjamin's side.

 

Chapter 976

Bryan asked, “Does this mean I can't have a meal here if you didn't invite me?”

“Do you look like you want to eat?” Darius glared at him.

Bryan's pride was hurt when he noticed no one welcomed his presence.

Even the six children didn't bother to greet him.

“Fine! All of you enjoy your meal then!” Upon standing up, Bryan sauntered into the living room instead of leaving.

Darius was pissed off. Is he ruining our appetite on purpose?

As he turned to the children and Arissa, his expression grew tender. “Ignore him! Let's eat.”

Arissa felt somewhat awkward after looking at the Graham men's interaction.

Aside from Gavin, who seemed to have been used to the scene, the other five children were visibly uncomfortable.

Benjamin looked at the children and softly encouraged, “Eat!”

Then, he put some food on Arissa's plate and comforted her, “Enjoy the food. Ignore everything else.”

Upon nodding, she continued eating.

“Eat up, children.” Darius spoke tenderly as he placed food on the kids' plates.

“Thank you, Grandpa!”

The children's lovable behavior melted the old man's heart and cheered him up. noveldrama

He also placed some food on Arissa's plate. “You should eat more, Issa.”

In response, she smiled. “Thank you, Dad!”

“Eat! Don't let Bryan affect your mood!” he enthusiastically urged.

“You should eat too, Dad,” said Benjamin as he also served his father some food, which was something he seldom did.

That action of his lifted the old man's mood significantly.

As the family continued to enjoy their dinner, Bryan sat in the living room alone. Even the butler and housekeepers didn't acknowledge his presence.

William didn't have the nerve to greet him as his employer didn't instruct him to do so.

Instead, he remained in the dining room, busying himself to serve the family.

The longer Bryan waited, the more ticked off he appeared. The harmonious scene in the dining room frustrated him to no end. Dad is biased! When was the last time he treated my family as well as that? I've never even seen him showering my son with that much affection. He only cares about Benjamin's children!

Everyone ignored Bryan even after dinner.

Since Darius wasn't paying attention to him, everyone else had even less reason to do so.

The six children kept their grandfather company, whereas Benjamin brought Arissa to a room upstairs.

Bryan was sick of getting ignored.

Hence, suppressing his anger, he shouted at Benjamin, who was heading upstairs. “Let's talk, Benjamin!”

Benjamin was holding Arissa's hand when he peered downstairs as though he was a king looking down on a dissenter.

In response, Bryan frowned. He was unhappy about the fact that he was intimidated by his younger brother's overwhelming aura.

“There's nothing for us to talk about.” Benjamin didn't even bother to show him a shred of respect as he spat coldly, “I've told you everything I wanted to say. It's up to you how you want to deal with it!”

He then guided Arissa upstairs, leaving the enraged Bryan in the living room.

You are a cruel, ruthless man, Benjamin!

When Darius brought the children over to the stairs, he was unhappy to see Bryan's expression. “Are you staring at your sworn enemy or something?”

Panicking, Bryan concealed the scowl on his face and turned to his father. “Don't you think it's unfair that Benjamin is doing whatever he pleases?”

Darius shot a look of disdain at his son. “If you're just as capable as him, you can do the same. Benjamin earned everything he owned right now with hard work. If you want to talk about fairness, I'd say he's the one who received the most unfair treatment in this family. He never desired anything from me, while the rest of you only know how to depend on me. Instead of antagonizing your brother, you should use this time to devise a plan to improve your business!”

Even though he had provided his first two sons' families with many benefits, they still weren't satisfied.

 

Chapter 977

Bryan felt humiliated upon hearing his father's harsh words.

“Why do you hate my daddy so much, Uncle Bryan?” Gavin questioned as he gazed at his uncle angrily.

The look in his eyes and his aura resembles Benjamin so much. It pisses me off. Wait. I thought this kid didn't speak much in the past.

Bryan's expression darkened as he reprimanded, “Is this how you're supposed to speak to your elder?”

“Is he wrong to do so?” Darius defended the boy and gave his son a dirty look.

“Dad!” Bryan's expression was grim.

“You should be grateful that he's willing to call you uncle, considering you don't act like an adult at all. If there's nothing else, go back home! I don't want you to keep annoying me here!” The old man had no qualms about chasing his son away. noveldrama

Bryan couldn't believe he had waited for the dinner to end for nothing. Hence, unwilling to stick around any longer, he left. “Fine! I'll go back now!”

“How disrespectful!” Darius chided with exasperation.

William served the old man a glass of warm water. “Calm down, Old Mr. Graham!”

Darius' anger was appeased after he took a sip of water.

“Why does he hate Mr. Graham so much, Grandpa?” Zachary asked, frowning with displeasure.

The old man was a little shocked to see the boy acting in that manner. He cares quite a lot about his father though he doesn't show it.

Darius then glanced at the other children, elated when he saw that they were similarly unhappy about the way their uncle treated their father.

Embracing the sextuplets, he patted their heads. “There's no need for any of you to concern yourself with adult matters. It's my fault for not raising your uncle properly and letting him think he can bully your father.”

The children consoled their grandfather when they noticed how guilty he felt. “It's not your fault, Grandpa. We won't blame you for what happened.”

Touched, Darius uttered, “Thank you, Sweethearts.”

As Arissa followed Benjamin back into the bedroom, her line of sight occasionally landed on his face.

Sensing her glances, he stared at her, his eyes as deep as an abyss. “I know you have questions. Ask away.”

“No, I don't!” She hastily lowered her eyes to avert his gaze.

As he pulled her toward the bed, she resisted because she felt quite uncomfortable acting intimately in the manor, for fear that someone would see them.

Benjamin held her even tighter as he rested his chin on her head. “I've always known they hate me.”

Confounded, Arissa asked, “They?”

Does he have another sibling except for Bryan?

“My second elder brother's family,” he replied indifferently with a scoff.

No wonder I don't see his siblings around here. Turns out their relationship is bad. I get it now.

“You—” Before she could finish her sentence, she was abruptly interrupted by him.

“We're actually half-brothers. We don't share the same mother,” Benjamin disclosed placidly. Despite his calm tone, Arissa could sense his dejection.

She rubbed her face against his chest and hugged him tightly. Ah, so they're brothers from different mothers. No wonder they have such a hostile relationship with each other. Then again, even children from the same parents could end up in this kind of relationship. Grudges between family members are a common sight in affluent families.

Then, she inquired carefully, “Where's your mother?”

“She's gone.” His tone remained unchanged.

“I'm sorry! I shouldn't have asked.”

“It's fine. She passed after she gave birth to me, so I never got to see her.” His expression darkened.

Arissa's instinct was telling her there was more to that story, but she didn't ask.

Benjamin continued, “My mother and my father were childhood sweethearts, and they were also engaged. However, when my father went to the countryside, he fell in love with someone else and had two children with her. When he returned to the city, he married my mother for the sake of a mutually beneficial relationship. For many years, they lived apart from each other because he was often away from home due to work. It wasn't until he stepped away from work that I was born. My mother passed away when she gave birth to me because she was too enraged by the appearance of my father's mistress and her two sons.”

His chest rose and fell violently as he related his entire past. If it weren't for his emotional reaction, Arissa would've thought she was listening to another person's tale.

Her heart ached after she listened to his tragic backstory, and she hugged him. This would explain the hateful relationship between him and his brother and why he treats his father so coldly.

 

Chapter 978

“Even though my father had a daughter with that woman later on, he never married her! Their love is a joke,” Benjamin spat.

Upon hearing that, Arissa was shocked. Benjamin has a sister, too?

“Where is she, then?” She was referring to Bryan's mother.

He stared at her, complicated emotions swirling within his eyes. “I chased her away!”

The story stunned and disheartened her. Are all men the same? Regan also cheated on his wife.

Suddenly, her impression of Darius was ruined significantly.

“Do you think I was too ruthless?” Anxiously, Benjamin waited for her answer.

Arissa shook her head. “I'd do the same if I were you.”

Though technically, Bryan's mother didn't kill Benjamin's mother with her own hands, she still caused the latter's death. I don't think that woman is an ordinary joe.

Then, she asked, “Why isn't Old Mr. Graham living with them, then?”

It was something she found odd because Darius was free to live with his mistress if he wanted to.

Benjamin sneered, “Maybe because he felt guilty for my mother's death and couldn't find peace of mind.”

When Arissa heard the mockery in his voice, her heart clenched. I don't think that's the only reason Old Mr. Graham refrained from doing that. I believe it's also because he cares very much about Benjamin.

The first time I met him, I can tell he genuinely cares about Benjamin and the children. “Your dad loves you very much, Benjamin!”

Gazing at her, Benjamin remained silent.

She kept quiet too as she embraced him.

After a while, he pinched her cheek. “Do you want to stay here tonight or go back?”

“I'll let you decide!” Arissa was fine either way.

Raising his eyebrow, a tinge of amusement surfaced in his eyes as he asked teasingly, “Are you sure?”

She grinned and stood up, but was hugged by him.

Patting his hand, she said, “I'm going to check on the children!”

Holding her chin, he kissed her lips.

Instantly, Arissa's face reddened. Benjamin's masculine scent pervaded her nose, and she plunged into a daze.

Her heart raced as she immersed herself in the moment.

The kiss lasted for a while before he let her go and sat up. “Let's go home.”

Upon readjusting her breathing, Arissa stared at him, shocked. “So fast?”

“Would you rather spend the night here?” He glanced at her.

The edges of her lips twitched before she smiled. “If I stay, you'll have to do the same, right?”

“You're that confident?” Benjamin teased, gently pinching her cheek.

“Yep!” Arissa replied smugly. “If I stay here, the children will, too. Are you going to return alone?”

Chuckling, he got up and helped her up, too. “Would you like to go to the restroom first, then?”

She was enraptured to see how caring her husband was and swiftly went to the restroom.

Once she was done, it was Benjamin's turn. noveldrama

Arissa blushed. He doesn't mind?

Her countenance reddened again when she heard the sound of water coming from within.

She then rushed outside and waited for him at the entrance.

Upon exiting the restroom, Benjamin strode toward her.

Arissa's heart skipped a beat as she watched the tall man step toward her. Gosh, can I stop swooning over him?

He smirked when he noticed her looking away, avoiding his line of sight.

When he approached her, he held her hand and descended the stairs with her. “Were you peeking at me?”

Arissa pursed her lips. Can he not smile so smugly?

“So what if I did?”

Gazing at her arrogant expression, his grin deepened, and he pinched her cheek again. “Feel free to look as much as you want!”

Words eluded Arissa.

 

Chapter 979

When the two of them got downstairs, Bryan was nowhere to be seen. Meanwhile, the six children were playing chess with Darius.

Arissa walked over with Benjamin and sat down at the side to watch Darius play chess.

After a while, Benjamin's phone rang, so he stood up and went outside to pick up the call. noveldrama

Arissa only briefly glanced at him before returning her focus to the chess game.

“I think I made the wrong move,” Darius said, regretting his choice and moving to take away the chess piece he had just set down.

“Grandpa, you can't do that! You can't make another move! Zachary cried out as he looked at Darius with a frown.

“He's right! Grandpa, that's cheating!” Oliver chimed in, siding with his brother.

At that, Darius frowned before casting an aggrieved look at his grandchildren. “Can't you just let me do this one time?”

The children turned to him and shook their heads with determination. “You didn't let us do this earlier either, Grandpa!”

Darius froze, his beard twitching. William, who was beside him, smiled, amused by the interaction between the old man and his grandchildren.

Even Arissa was smiling at the scene.

“Sweethearts, just let Grandpa off the hook.”

Too prideful to admit defeat, Darius suddenly said, “No, no! I don't need you to go easy on me. I'll win without your help!”

“Not necessarily.”

Gavin was confident in Zachary's chess skills.

“Don't get too cocky,” Darius said with a huff before he continued playing with his grandson.

To his surprise, the boy still won him in the end.

The children burst out laughing. “Grandpa, you lost! Hahaha!”

However, Darius did not get mad at the sight of their joy. Instead, he was equally happy.

“It's just one round. What's there to be happy about? I was going easy on you just now. Let's do this again!”

The children pouted in dissatisfaction.

“You lost, Grandpa! I won, but you're not taking your defeat in stride!”

“That's right. You even tried to play dirty!” Jesse protested.

“Let me play this round,” Oliver said as he excitedly rubbed his hands.

“You're up. Try to go easier on Grandpa so he won't lose too terribly,” Zachary uttered as he patted his brother's shoulder.

Both Jasper and Jesse snickered at the side while Tim and Gavin watched the scene unfold.

Darius then glanced at Oliver and asked, “You're better in this than your brother?”

Oliver grinned from ear to ear before adjusting his glasses and concealing the sly glint in his eyes.

“Don't listen to him, Grandpa. I often lose to him.”

The corners of Zachary's lips twitched when he heard that. A chess master indeed. Listen to those crafty words of his!

Curious, Darius began playing against Oliver.

Arissa knew how well the boy could play, but she said nothing as she continued watching them.

In just a few moves, Darius was stuck.

“Oh my, I think I've won!” Oliver remarked as he put on a look of surprise on his face.

Darius' piece was trapped by Oliver's pieces, and there was nothing the old man could do to escape that situation.

Darius could only blink in disbelief.

What a sneaky boy to have led me into this trap!

“Oliver, did you just lie to me?” Darius asked the innocent-looking boy with a smile.

Oliver beamed and answered, “Grandpa, I have no idea how I won. Sorry!”

“Haha!” Darius laughed before patting his head lovingly. “Stop messing around, okay? Let's rematch.”

“Grandpa, no matter how many times you have a rematch, you'll never win Oliver!” Jasper pointed out proudly.

“Oh?” Darius said, lifting a brow.

“Oliver's an award-winning chess player! He's invincible!” Jasper revealed.

Darius and William were taken aback by that, and they turned to look at Arissa in pleasant surprise. “Did he really win an award?”

Arissa nodded. “Yes. He's a world champion.”

Right then, Benjamin ended his call and came in. When he heard the last part of her words, he asked, “What world champion?”

Darius glanced at him as a wave of pride swelled in his chest.

“Your son's a world champion, but you don't even know that? What kind of father are you?”

Benjamin became speechless at that.

 

Chapter 980

Arissa chuckled under her breath when she saw Benjamin's exasperated expression.

In response, Benjamin gave her a side-eye.

Arissa quickly averted her gaze to watch the old man play chess with Oliver.

Then, Benjamin walked over to her and wrapped his arm around her waist. He whispered by her ear through gritted teeth, “Were you laughing at me earlier?”

Arissa quickly shook her head as her survival instincts kicked in.

“Nope!”

Benjamin scoffed doubtfully.

Arissa stole another glance, meeting the man's deep eyes. Thus, she swiftly and guiltily averted her gaze again.

When Benjamin gave her waist a light pinch, Arissa flinched. noveldrama

Then, she whipped her head around to shoot him a warning look.

Benjamin arched his brow and gazed at her, the look in his eyes as dark and deep as the ocean.

Right then, Oliver ecstatically blurted out, “Haha! Grandpa, I won!”

The rest of the children clapped and cheered.

“We told you Oliver's going to win, but you didn't believe us, Grandpa!”

Darius did not know how to react at that moment. “Let's do it again!” he said.

Oliver eyed his grandfather and asked, “Again, Grandpa?”

“Make it quick!”

Refusing to accept defeat, Darius gestured for Oliver to continue.

Thus, Oliver had no choice but to keep playing against Darius, but in no time, Darius lost again.

“Another!” Darius insisted.

The children found it hilarious.

At the sight of the children's seriousness, Arissa sighed inwardly and wondered, Can't the kids play along with their grandpa and let him win just once?

On the other hand, upon seeing Darius' refusal to admit defeat, Benjamin commented, “You need to admit defeat if you're lousier than him.”

Darius glared at him. “Shut up. You're disrupting my game!”

Arissa snorted before chiming in, “That's right. Shut up, Benjamin.”

Benjamin narrowed his eyes, and Arissa looked away, pretending as if she had not seen the man's warning look.

Darius was feeling simultaneously gloomy and thrilled after losing several times against Oliver.

I never thought Oliver would be this great in chess!

In the end, Oliver made it easier for Darius to win in the last round, and since his actions were not obvious, Darius was elated when he won.

“You're not going to win against me this round!” was what Darius said before the last round.

Benjamin was speechless again to hear that.

Around ten minutes later, Darius won.

“Hahaha! I won!” Darius cried out, his laughter reverberating in the living room.

William felt happy for him, too. “Old Mr. Graham, you've finally won Oliver.”

“Right? Haha!” Darius was still beaming, overjoyed.

“Congratulations on your win, Grandpa,” Zachary praised, smiling from ear to ear.

“You're amazing, Grandpa!” Jasper gave Darius a thumbs-up.

“Grandpa's the best!” Jesse said, beaming, before she jumped into Darius' arms.

“Yes, Grandpa's awesome! You're so much better at chess than lots of other people your age!” Tim added.

Darius was on cloud nine upon receiving the children's compliments.

With a smile, he asked, “Am I really a good chess player?”

The children bobbed their heads in agreement, including Gavin.

“We're not lying! You can ask Mommy if you don't believe us!”

Darius then turned to Arissa, who inclined her head and said, “Dad, you're the first person who won against Oliver.”

Darius' eyes lit up, and he became even happier after hearing her confirmation.

“Haha, but of course, I'm still lousier than Oliver in chess.”

Arissa smiled at Darius' obviously good mood.

“Dad, it's getting late. We have to go back now,” Benjamin said, reminding Darius that they needed to return to Yaleview.

However, Darius looked at them and asked, “Can you stay here tonight?”

“No, they're not used to it here.” Benjamin swept his gaze over the children. “Say goodbye to Grandpa. We're going back now.”

The children still wanted to play with Darius, but since their father said it was time to go home, they had no choice but to bid farewell to Darius.

“Grandpa, we're going back now.”

Darius ruffled their hair affectionately with a soft smile.

“Okay, go back and rest well. Come here earlier tomorrow, okay?”

The children nodded fervently. “Got it, Grandpa. We'll come here and play with you again tomorrow!”