Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 874

When Sire heard his name, he slowly turned around. Seeing Haskell’s warm smile, his expression faltered for a moment. It reminded him of the smile Romilly used to give him.

Sire quickly set down his shears, walked over to a nearby table, and picked up his phone, typing deftly: [Aren't you working today?]

Haskell entered the room and glanced at the screen. “Grandpa needed to see me,” he replied with a smile. “He thinks someone might have been in his study.”

Sire’s expression shifted subtly. He typed again: [Sounds like you need to tighten your security.]

Haskell nodded in agreement. “Indeed. The annual Palmer family meeting is coming up, and everyone will be here. It would be a disaster if something happened that day.”

His gaze then fell upon the plant Sire had been pruning. It was an exquisitely shaped floral arrangement, with vibrant blossoms and lush green leaves.

“Your skills are really improving, Sire,” he praised.

Sire smiled and typed: [Thank you. It’s just a hobby.]

Haskell looked at him, a thought seemingly striking him. “By the way, my grandfather just acquired a century-old pine tree for his study that requires expert care. I was thinking, with your talent, you’d be the perfect person for the job. I already recommended you to him.”

Sire froze, then typed: [Me? Are you sure?]

“Of course,” Haskell said. “Don’t you have confidence in your own abilities? If you feel it’s too much, I can find someone else.”

Sire quickly typed: [No, I can do it!]

“Excellent,” Haskell smiled. “I’ll have the butler show you to my grandfather’s study tomorrow so you can get acquainted with the place. I have to get to the office now, so I’ll be going.”

Sire nodded.

After Crispin wheeled Haskell away, Sire looked up toward the main house, his eyes fixed on the second-floor study. His expression had turned dark and sinister.

A smile touched Haskell’s lips. “Alright, see you tonight.”

“See you tonight!”

As evening fell and the city lights began to glow, Haskell left the office. After calling Zoltan to let him know he wouldn’t be home for dinner, he drove directly to the Judson residence.

Sapphira, carrying a fruit platter, greeted him with a wide smile. “Haskell, you’re here! Larissa told me you were coming, so I made some of your favorite dishes.”

The way she said his name made Haskell feel as if he were hearing his own mother again, and for a moment, he was lost in thought.

Larissa’s voice broke the spell. “Haskell, you’re here! Dad and I just got back ourselves.”

Haskell turned, his focus returning to Larissa as she walked to his side. He smiled. “Sapphira tells me she made my favorite food.”