Chapter 24
The Charrington family mansion at Hillside was nothing short of majestic–infrared scanners covered a 300–foot radius, and armed guards watched at the main entrance like sentinels.
As David’s car approached, the guards immediately stepped aside and saluted respectfully.
Danielle glanced at them, quickly realizing they weren’t an average security team–they looked like seasoned mercenaries. Their presence hinted that David was more than just the CEO of Charrington Group.
The car rolled to a stop at the mansion’s front steps. They climbed out and followed David inside. In the expansive living room, Geoffrey and Polly appeared, hurrying toward them.
“Dad, how are you feeling? Why didn’t you stay in the hospital atle longer? We only just found out you were there and rushed back from abroad,” Geoffrey said, concern mingling with irritation.
“That’s right, Logan, Polly added, her tone sharp. “Geoffrey and had no idea you were hospitalized. David, why didn’t you tell us sooner? We could’ve come back earlier
Danielle noticed David’s brow twitch, his jaw tightening. His eyes flickered with an intensity that warned of a brewing storm. Logan’s gaze shifted to his son and daughter–in–law, his expression stern. “Enough. You’re back now–let’s leave it at that.” Then, he turned to David and Danielle, and his tone softened. David, Danielle, come sit with me in the living room
Geoffrey and Polly trailed behind them without saying anything more.
Once seated, Woody stepped forward, carrying an elegant box. Mr. Logan Charrington,” he said respectfully, setting it down in front of Logan.
Logan opened the box, revealing a breathtaking emerald bracelet. “This belonged to David’s grandmother,” he said, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. “It’s a family heirloom. She wanted it to be passed on to the woman David truly loves.”
The bracelet gleamed in the light, its translucent green surface flawless. Danielle knew its reputation. Collectors had begged for a glimpse of it, but it had never been publicly displayed.
Years ago, rumors circulated that it appeared in the Charrington Family. Someone offered 1.5 billion dollars for it, but the Charrington family wasn’t interested in selling.
It was said to bring peace of mind and clarity to its wearer, but its immense value made Danielle uneasy. Logan, L… I don’t think I can accept something so precious.”
Logan’s expression grew tender but firm. “This was her wish, Danielle. If she were here, she’d put it on you herself.”
The mention of David’s grandmother brought a glimmer of sadness to Logan’s eyes. Danielle glanced at David, silently asking for guidance.
David explained softly, “Grandma’s in a hospital overseas. She has a growth in her brain. Surgery’s too risky, so she’s on medication to keep it under control.”
Danielle’s heart sank. Although his grandmother was still alive, was clear her time was running out. The growth had already begun affecting her nerves and memory.
Despite consulting countless experts, the family had no choice but to opt for conservative treatment.
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“David, help Danielle put it on, Logan said, gesturing toward the bracelet.
Polly’s composure cracked. Her eyes locked on the bracelet, an object she had coveted for years. Now, Logan was giving it away to someone she barely knew..
“Logan, are you sure about this?” Polly’s voice rose, a hint of desperation creeping in. “This is Tara’s family heirloom. She’s still abroad. What if she doesn’t approve of Danielle? Wouldn’t be better to wait until Tara recovers and comes back before making this decision?”
Logan’s expression hardened instantly. He wasn’t fooled. “I make the decisions about this family, Polly,” he said, his voice cold. This bracelet belongs to Danielle now. That’s final”
Polly’s face fell. Her hopes had been crushed with a single sentence.
“Dad, how can you trust an outsider so easily?” Geoffrey protested, his frustration spilling over. “I’m David’s father–I should have a say in who he marries! That bracelet is priceless!”
“Who do you think you are?” David, who had been quiet up until now, shot Geoffrey a piercing glare, his tone icy. “David! How dare you talk to your father like that? Show some respect,” Polly snapped, her voice sharp.
Geoffrey’s face darkened. David had always overshadowed him in the family business, and now, David was openly challenging him in front of everyone.
Fury boiled under Geoffrey’s composed exterior. He doesn’t even see me as his father anymore. Fine, but don’t blame me for what comes next, he thought.
“That’s enough,” Logan said firmly, his once amiable expression hardening. “If you two can’t control yourselves, leave the room and go upstairs.”
Geoffrey and Polly immediately went quiet. Logan’s authority was absolute, and neither dared to push him further.
Logan turned to Danielle, and his face softened, his warmth returning. “Danielle, don’t let them upset you. What I say goes in this family.
“I don’t know how much longer I’ll be around, or if I’ll live to see the two of you get married. I might not even get to hold my great–grandchild. If only Tara’s health weren’t weighing so heavily on me-
Danielle’s heart clenched. The once–imposing Logan now seemed vulnerable, almost fragile.
“Logan, the meal is ready,” Woody interjected gently, worried the emotional conversation might take a toll on Logan’s health.
Logan nodded, his smile returning. “Alright, Danielle, you must be hungry. Let’s eat.”
David stepped closer and took Danielle’s hand. “Let me put it on for you,” he said quietly, picking up the bracelet and sliding it onto her wrist.
As he leaned in, Danielle caught the faint scent of tobacco lingering on him. To her surprise, it wasn’t unpleasant. She wanted to protest, but the determination in David’s gaze and the hope shining in Logan’s eyes made her stay quiet.
David’s hand lingered on hers for a moment. His eyes swept over her delicate features–her clear, starry eyes and the soft blush on her flawless skin.
His voice dropped, husky with sincerity. “It’s beautiful. You’re beautiful. It suits you perfectly.”
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Chapter 24
Logan watched the scene unfold, his grin stretching from ear to ar. “Tara would be thrilled to see this,” he said, his voice full
of emotion.
Hearing her name, Danielle glanced at Logan thoughtfully. “Logan, do you have Tara’s medical records?” she asked softly.
Logan’s eyes lit up with a spark of hope. “Yes, of course. We’ll eat first, and I’ll bring them to you after dinner.”
The Charrington family moved to the dining room, where an extravagant spread awaited. The enormous table, big enough to seat dozens, was covered with luxurious dishes, each more mouthwatering than the last.
Throughout dinner, David barely ate, focusing instead on doting on Danielle. He kept piling her plate with food, even peeling shrimp for her
“David, my plate is full, Danielle finally said with a small laugh, realizing he wasn’t going to stop. “You need to eat too.”
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