329: Ties That Bind

The rustling leaves whispered secrets as the car pulled up to the old mansion, carrying Emma and Maxwell to a critical confrontation with their grandfather. The tension between them was palpable; Maxwell, usually reticent and composed, was visibly agitated by the recent family turmoil and Maxwell's provocative attitude. As they ascended the grand staircase to the entrance, Maxwell couldn't help but grumble under his breath. "If you're just going to provoke everyone, maybe I should've stayed home." Emma, steering her brother towards the front door with an assured grip on his shoulder, replied with a wry smile, "Come on, Maxwell. It’s not about provoking; it's about setting things right. Grandpa needs to hear this from us." The heavy doors opened to reveal the expansive foyer, where Grandpa was already waiting, his stern gaze settling on Emma. His presence, formidable as ever, seemed to fill the entire space with an unspoken authority. "Why are you here now? Haven't we stirre