How the Ice King Became my Doting Billionaire Husband novel Chapter 353

Ryan knew Orson was one of Stuart's guys. The reason was simple: the guy had a way of speaking that rubbed people the wrong way, and Ryan had heard Oswald, the family's strict but fair head, give Orson a good earful more than once.

"So, with Stuart and your sister-in-law gone, what are you still doing hanging around?" Ryan asked.

Puffing out his chest with a smirk, Orson replied, "I've got an important job. Mrs. Hetfield tasked me with keeping an eye on Norbert. If anything's off, I'm to report straight back to her."

Ryan paused before asking, "Off? How?"

Shaking his head, Orson said, "Not sure exactly. Just gotta make sure he's not sneaking any booze or check if his health's getting any better. Norbert's not in great shape, and I've got to make sure he's taking his meds."

"You don't know how he's doing?"

"What's there to know?"

"Nothing, just that he's not doing so great because of his age."

The state of Grandpa's health was common knowledge in the family, except to the sister-in-law. Even Orson, who was often by her side, seemed oblivious, something Ryan found curious. It dawned on Ryan that everyone was deliberately keeping the sister-in-law in the dark. Since it was Grandpa's wish, Ryan bit his tongue and didn't say anything more.

Noticing Ryan's glum expression, Orson felt a twinge of pity. "In my family, the brothers and sister are all close. But the young master here looks like he's got no one. Doesn't play with his siblings, and always looks so down, even in sixth grade."

After a moment's hesitation, Orson offered, "Hey, cheer up. How about you play with my slingshot for a bit? It was a gift from Mrs. Hetfield, but don't you go breaking it on me."