True Heiress Returns to Her Unemployed Rich Family (Arabella) novel Chapter 659

"Grandpa, if you really don't want to step in, I'll handle this on my own," Matthew said, pretending not to notice his grandfather's frustration.

Robert let out a weary sigh, shaking his head slightly before turning to Arabella. "Arabella, your grandfather and I go way back. How about I take you in as my god-granddaughter? That way, you can still call me Grandpa."

"I..." Arabella hesitated.

"You're not keen on the idea?" Robert's expression softened with a hint of disappointment.

Arabella quickly shook her head. "No, it's not that at all. I'd just like to talk it over with my own grandfather first, out of respect for him. It's only right to give it proper consideration."

"That's more like it." Robert nodded, visibly pleased.

Matthew clenched his jaw, lowering his voice so only his grandfather could hear. "Are you doing this just to get under my skin?"

If Arabella became Robert's god-granddaughter, where would that leave him?

Robert sniffed dismissively. Fine, if you won't appreciate her, I certainly will.

Matthew opened his mouth to explain, but no words came. Finally, he managed, "Let's just drop this for now."

"Why should we?" Robert shot back, clearly annoyed. "I stay out of your affairs, so don't interfere in mine."

"We're swamped with work. We don't have time for games like this," Matthew insisted, standing his ground firmly.

"This is serious—how is it a game?" Robert's temper flared.

"What I mean is, we have a mountain of projects coming up. Let's not distract Dr. Hamilton with side matters—she'll burn out," Matthew explained calmly. "Besides, even without any formal arrangement, she can still call you Grandpa. You and Ryan have been close for years. The relationship is already there."

"Really?" Robert glanced toward Arabella.

Arabella's lips twitched slightly. Forcing a polite smile, she said, "Grandpa."

She couldn't quite figure out why they were making such a fuss over something so small, but if it kept the peace, she'd play along.

"Well, all right then!" Robert's face lit up instantly, his smile deepening the lines around his eyes.

He threw Matthew a triumphant look, chin lifted as though he'd won a silent battle.

Matthew simply shook his head in resignation. You're the elder. You win.

Robert's eyes held a trace of playful scorn. Can't keep your own future wife, so now I can't even claim a god-granddaughter?

Matthew returned an innocent look. Can't you cut me some slack here?

For some reason, the mood in the room had grown awkward. Arabella bit her lip gently and spoke softly, "Grandpa, I really just came to drop him off. He should rest now, and I ought to get going."

"Wait—stay for dinner," Robert urged, reluctant to see her leave so soon.

But Arabella declined, "I wish I could, but I've got some things to take care of."

Hearing that, Robert reluctantly nodded. "All right, then."

"So someone did find out." Colton almost seemed relieved. Well, at least the secret's out now.

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