Chapter 50

Johnny,who seldom stepped beyond the confines of his home, made an unexpected appearance that caught everyone off guard.

Though well into his seventies, he radiated warmth and a seasoned sharpness.Energy coursed through him,and in his eyes-so similar to Jeremy's-rested the quiet command of someone long accustomed to power.

He was once hailed as a titan in the corporate arena,but over time,he had gradually withdrawn,passing the reins of the family businesses to his only son,Jeremy.Still, whispers persisted about friction between the two.

Kayla froze where she stood as they drew closer,knowing instinctively this wasn't the moment to slip away.

She gave a composed nod and said, "Good evening,Mr. Graham."

Their paths had last crossed at the wedding; this marked only their second meeting.

Johnny studied her for a brief moment, then offered a nod. "Quite some time has passed, hasn't it?" From inside the house, Liam caught the stir and burst out, clearly rattled. "Grandpa, Mom, what brings you here?"

Johnny took a slow look around the villa and asked,"What was that racket a moment ago?"

Shifting uncomfortably, Liam replied, "It's nothing serious, Grandpa. Just a minor disagreement between Kayla and me."

Johnny didn't respond. He had heard more than a few tales about Liam, but he'd learned to let such talk drift past him.

Janiya walked up to Liam, her voice lined with mock disapproval as she clutched his arm. "Liam, your grandfather doesn't visit often. You should've come out to welcome him. That's completely inappropriate."

Liam lowered his head, voice apologetic. "I apologize.I should've been more mindful."

With a slight nod, Johnny, steadying himself on a servant's arm, moved toward the sofa.

As Janiya scanned the disorder inside the bedroom and caught sight of Tricia sprawled on the floor,her expression darkened. She yanked Liam aside and said between clenched teeth,"Clean this up. It took a lot to bring your grandfather here. Don't let this fall apart."

"| know, Mom," Liam said quietly.

He turned to the staff, directing them to help Tricia Fit and summon a doctor, making sure nothing disturbed Johnny.

Standing nearby, Kayla watched the mother and son act concerned, her stomach turning. Clearly, they were ashamed to let Tricia be in Johnny's presence.

"Liam, Kayla, come," Johnny called from the living room.

Liam gave a quick nod and stepped forward, but Kayla stayed where she was.

Janiya reached out and grabbed her arm and said sharply, "Kayla, listen to me. My father's the head of the Graham family. He values dignity above all else.Be careful what you say around him."

Kayla shot back, voice laced with bitterness, "It's your son who's dragged the family through the mud.Yet here you are, lecturing me."

Janiya's expression tightened. "Watch yourself. My father's heart isn't strong. If something happens and he gets sick, Jeremy won't let you off the hook."

At the mention of Jeremy, a flick of emotion passed through Kayla's eyes.

"That's enough, Mom," Liam said firmly, tugging Kayla forward, though she resisted with every step.

The servants brought out drinks and light refreshments, then quietly exited, pulling the villa doors shut behind them. Just as Liam moved closer to Johnny, a sudden roar broke the silence. "Kneel!"

The command jolted Liam. He dropped to the floor,knees hitting the marble with a loud thump.

Kayla,watching from the side, had to admit-Liam wasted no time showing submission in front of his grandfather.

Johnny reached for the cane resting nearby and brought it down hard across Liam's back. "Look at what you've done. You've brought shame on yourself and the family. Kayla wanted a real future with you,and this is how you repay her? There's no place in this family for someone like you."

Kayla's brow creased at Johnny's words.

She had only seen Johnny once before, and like Janiya,he had seemed dismissive of her upbringing.

She assumed the Graham family would welcome her separation from Liam, but now Johnny stood up for her, and she couldn't quite make sense of it.

Lowering his head, Liam murmured, "Grandpa, I understand. I'll accept whatever punishment you see fit."

Janiya rushed forward, eyes glossy. "Dad, if someone must take the blame, let it be me. I failed to raise him right. All of this is my fault."

Johnny responded by striking Liam again,the repeated

Fit blows draining the color from his face. Liam clenched his fists, clearly in pain, but said nothing.

Kayla remained indifferent, silently observing the performance. She knew Janiya wouldn't have brought Johnny here without a motive.

While she stood unmoved, Johnny turned to her and signaled with his hand. "Kayla, I know you've endured a lot. Come please."