Chapter 75
If the Watson family could align themselves with the Skye family, they would remain a prestigious force for the next hundred years. But what intrigued Joseph even more was the connection between the Lee and Skye families. Why did Theo refer to Mr. Lee as “Grandpa”?
“You arrived just in time, Theo. Have a few drinks with the warden on behalf of your grandfather!” Joseph grinned, his tone warm.
Theo leaned back in his chair, a mischievous grin on his face. “Don’t worry, father-in-law. I’ll make sure the warden has great company tonight!”
Father-in-law?
The corners of Walter’s mouth twitched in surprise, his eyes flicking to Olivia, who was gazing at Theo with something akin to affection.
Grant, unable to hide his confusion, spoke up with a bitter smile. “Mr. Lee, when did your granddaughter get married? We never heard a word about it.”
Mr. Lee simply grinned at the questions.
Joseph answered with a smile, “It’s not your fault. My daughter and Theo got married overseas…”
He had been waiting for the right moment to inform these influential men. Since Theo had made the effort to attend today, Joseph decided it was time to reveal the marriage and, indirectly, remind the others to treat the Lee family with more respect moving forward.
The heads of the families exchanged knowing glances, lowering their heads in acknowledgment. Walter, unable to contain his excitement, grinned widely, as though his face might split in two.
If the Lee and Skye families were connected like this, there was a high chance the Watson and Skye families would join forces!
Theo raised his glass with a sly smile and began to toast the warden. “Warden, of all the four wardens, my grandfather holds the highest regard for you, the warden of the Northern Territory. Allow me to drink this glass on his behalf…”
The warden raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the young man’s confidence. If this was his first glass, who would he be drinking on behalf of for the second?
Was Theo attempting to get him drunk?
But seeing the opportunity for camaraderie, the warden played along. It was a joyous occasion, after all, and this was the young master of the Skye family.
The warden smiled and raised his glass, adding, “I’m not great with alcohol, so please go easy on me…”
Just as he finished his sentence, Nash’s voice cut through the air. “You can have three glasses…”
The warden, who had taken some potent medication earlier, wasn’t in top shape. While detoxifying medicine was usually mild, combining it with alcohol could bring intense side effects. If he drank too much, the pain could be excruciating.
“Three glasses?” Theo echoed, turning toward Nash, a grin tugging at his lips. “I fear the warden wouldn’t enjoy himself with just three. Let’s not stop him from indulging fully!”
The warden let out a hearty laugh. “Just you wait, young man. Once I’ve recovered, I’ll have you chug three full pints!”
Theo chuckled in return. “Deal’s a deal!”
Stellar watched the exchange with mild surprise. He’d noticed that the warden seemed to enjoy talking to younger people. Back in the Northern Territory, he had often mingled with soldiers in their twenties. Perhaps it was because he was getting older, or maybe it was just his nature to be a people person.
At Herman’s table, Helena’s voice rose with excitement. “Grandpa, did you hear that? The Skye and Lee families are connected through marriage!”
While the Lee and Skye families had little to do with her personally, Helena was well-aware that the Watson family’s influence was tied to their relationships. If the Watsons and Lees were on good terms, it could mean a chance to be close to the powerful Skye family.
Herman smiled knowingly. “Yes, yes, I heard. You’ll need to hurry up and get your marriage to Kai registered…”
Helena mumbled to herself, “Even the warden is Mr. Lee’s former student. Did you form a connection with the warden too?”
Hera, rolling her eyes, responded sarcastically, “Sour grapes. Would you believe me if I told you I could share a toast with the warden?”
“No, I don’t…” Helena grumbled.
Hera’s eyes glinted with mischief. “What if I can do it?”
“Then you can do anything you want if you succeed…” Helena retorted, unwilling to back down.
Annoyed by Hera’s taunts, Helena decided to take the bet.
Hera crossed her arms and smirked. “If I succeed, you’ll have to bark like a dog in front of everyone three times!”
Helena hesitated, her face flushing at the thought. “That’s a cruel request. Change it to something else!”
Helena knew better than to risk embarrassing the entire Lewis family if she lost.
“Just admit you’re a wuss, and don’t interrupt me when I’m talking!” Hera insisted.
Helena was agitated now, her cheeks puffing out. “Fine! I’ll take the bet!”