The Stand-In Who Burned the Script novel Chapter 401

Watching the expression on Old Mr. Sterling's face, Vivian Fairchild finally realized something clearly.

Though he appeared to live a secluded life, the old man was intimately aware of everything the younger generation was up to. Asking her questions was just a formality.

Offering a faint smile, she took the initiative and refilled his cup.

"Honestly... it wasn't a big deal."

She recounted the important details and sighed. "I can understand her reaction. After all, Grace Gifford and Silas have shared a connection for so many years, only for me to swoop in and steal the show. Plus, with what happened to her cousin, it makes sense that she'd take her anger out on me."

"Makes sense my ass!"

Old Mr. Sterling glared at her and scoffed.

"I say it serves them right! That Fowler kid has been nothing but trouble since he was young. As he grew up, he never showed a shred of improvement. This is just karma catching up to him!"

"And as for that spoiled brat..."

That spoiled brat?

Vivian nearly lost her composure, lowering her head to hide the upward curve of her lips as she continued to listen.

"She's too used to acting like a princess," he went on. "She always thinks she's a big deal. Let me tell you, Vivian... moving forward, you don't have to care about anyone's status. If they come knocking on your door looking for trouble, kick them out! Why give them the time of day?"

"Don't be afraid. If Silas Sterling isn't reliable, you always have your grandpa."

"...Alright."

Although his words were a mix of jest and truth, Vivian had to admit that a rush of warmth flooded her heart. In all her life, this was the very first time someone had so openly and unabashedly declared they would protect her.

After chatting for a while, the housekeeper called them in for dinner.

Eating as a pair was inherently different from eating alone.

Two extra dishes graced the table, and Old Mr. Sterling's booming voice filled the dining room. Even the butler wore a warm smile.

"George, let me serve Grandpa today. You sit down and eat with us."

Elders always loved a young person with a healthy appetite.

Shortly after dinner, the old man pulled her into a game of chess. Before they knew it, the day had slipped away. Just as she was thinking about joining him for some evening stretches, they realized the sky had already grown dark.

Old Mr. Sterling coughed dramatically. "Forget it. These stretches... I'm not really in the mood for them anyway."

Yet, his gaze kept drifting toward Vivian, his silence speaking volumes.

"..."

Vivian couldn't help but laugh, mirroring his exaggerated sigh. "It's getting late. Why don't I crash here for the night and head straight to work tomorrow? Grandpa, I'm a terrible night driver, and you wouldn't be so cruel as to make me leave now, right?"

"Is that so..."

Amusement sparkled in Old Mr. Sterling's eyes. "Alright then, but you have to leave tomorrow!"

"Yes, yes... I promise I won't disrupt your peaceful retirement."