Claimed by the Crown Heir novel Chapter 106

"Isn't it just a matter of time?" Vanessa stated the facts evenly. "Grandpa Howard gave his word. Are you saying you can change his mind?"

"I can't change it. You are absolutely marrying him in this lifetime!" His narrow, dark eyes gleamed with absolute certainty and a hint of amusement.

Vanessa pressed her lips together. "In that case, the next time you see me, Mr. Howard, try to behave yourself!"

Alistair slung an arm around her shoulder and chuckled. "It's not my fault you're so gorgeous. Every time I see you, you drive me crazy. Behaving myself is completely out of the question."

"Alistair!"

He hadn't listened to a single word she said.

"I'm right here."

"Aren't you afraid Grandpa Howard will find out and unleash his fury on you?"

"Worried about me?" Alistair leaned down and planted a kiss on her cheek. "Relax, the old man could never bring himself to be mad at me."

"Why not?" Vanessa pressed.

Alistair smirked, his smile loaded with hidden meaning.

The afternoon sun washed over the sprawling green golf course, the weather clear and the view expansive.

The golf cart pulled up to the fairway. Alistair stepped out first, his posture upright and his movements sharp, clearly looking like someone who spent a lot of time on the course.

Though Vanessa had practiced a few swings that morning, stepping onto a proper fairway meant she was still a novice. However, she wasn't entirely clueless.

She took her stance, gripped the club, and aimed. Her form wasn't textbook perfect, but it had a clean, crisp energy to it.

Alistair leaned against his club and watched. He didn't crowd her, only offering calm pointers after she followed through on her swing.

"Keep your center of gravity a bit steadier. Don't rush your rotation."

His gaze was intense as he spoke, his jawline sharp and distinct. He had completely shed his usual careless, rogue persona, leaving only a serious, grounded demeanor.

The sunlight caught his lowered lashes, casting faint shadows over his striking, chiseled profile.

Watching his intense focus, Vanessa's heart gave an inexplicable leap.

"Why are you staring at me? Look at the ball."

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