Chapter 125 Duplicitous
Character
“This requires more explanation than just a few words.” Corrine grasped Nate’s hand,
attempting to guide him toward the exit before Carl entered, but the sound of
approaching footsteps told her time had run out.
“It’s too late now.” Corrine’s anxiety manifested in her expression, her nervousness palpable as she searched desperately for a solution.
Nate’s eyebrow arched upward, amusement dancing in his eyes. “Consider this your boyfriend’s inevitable first meeting with your family–it had to happen eventually.”
Corrine barely registered his words, her gaze darting around until it settled on her expansive desk.
Without hesitation, she tugged Nate toward it and urged him underneath. “I apologize for the indignity.”
Nate found himself momentarily speechless.
“Corrine, you’re truly the first person who’s dared to treat me this way.” His grip tightened around her wrist, dark eyes conveying an unmistakable warning.
“Desperate times call for desperate measures.” She rose on her toes to press a quick, placating kiss to his lips, offering a sweet smile. “Just cooperate, please.”
“You think I’m so easily managed?”
“How about a date tonight to make up for it?”
At those words, Nate needed no further convincing; he willingly maneuvered himself beneath the desk.
The office door swung open at that moment.
Carl entered, his presence a testament to generations of business acumen. Under his leadership, the already prosperous Ford family had reached unprecedented heights. Even in retirement, his legendary business prowess remained the talk of the industry.
He surveyed the room while leaning on his cane. “Natasha mentioned you had a visitor?”
Corrine cast a furtive glance toward the sulking Nate beneath her desk before responding smoothly, “He’s already departed.”
Carl acknowledged this with a slight nod. “Waldo tells me you’re planning to move out?”
“The company just secured a new project. Late nights will be common, and commuting from home isn’t practical.”
Carl’s expression grew serious, his brows drawing together. “Corrine, be honest–are you seeing someone?”
Her heart faltered momentarily. “Grandpa, I-”
“The maid discovered wilted roses in your room this morning.” Carl’s deep voice cut through her response. “While I don’t oppose dating, a young woman must exercise caution. The world harbors many dangers, and people can be deceptive. At your age, you might not recognize these duplicitous characters.”
The alleged duplicitous character beneath the desk was stunned by Carl’s forthright
assessment.
Nate wondered idly how Carl might react if he showed the proof that he was meant to be Corrine’s fiance.
Noticing Nate’s darkening mood and fearing impulsive action, Corrine reached down to smooth his hair, as though calming a restless beast.
“Grandpa, given my qualities, it’s only natural that I attract suitors.” Corrine approached Carl, linking their arms and leaning against him with childlike affection. “Or is it what you want that no one cherishes or loves me?”
Carl snorted protectively at her self–deprecating tone. “Those fools must be blind not to see your worth!”
After a thoughtful pause, he continued, “Consider your uncles–I don’t fret when they’re gone for days, but you’re different. A young woman is safer at home.”
Understanding dawned–he feared she might be swept away by romance.
She cleared her throat uncomfortably. “Grandpa, the move is purely professional. While I am seeing someone, I’m being careful.”
“Who is he? His age? His background?” The questions tumbled out rapidly.
Observing Carl’s concern, Corrine decided the timing wasn’t right for revelations.
She glanced briefly at the desk before responding, “I’ll make proper introductions when the moment is right.”
Carl’s expression darkened at this, his gaze growing increasingly complex and unreadable as he studied his granddaughter.
