Chapter 459

Upon hearing Old Dixon's words, Jude immediately broke into a warm smile. "Now, now, Old Dixon, no need for such formalities! My father was just mentioning you yesterday. What a pleasant surprise to see you today—please, come right in!" Old Dixon visibly relaxed when he saw Jude's cheerful demeanor. "How's your father doing?" "Fit as a fiddle, just missing a chess partner," Jude replied with a chuckle. No sooner had they stepped inside than Jude's wife, Maggie, appeared, carefully assisting Old Garcia down the stairs from the second floor. Despite his injury and the cane in his hand, Old Garcia moved with surprising vigor. The moment he reached the bottom step, he waved off Maggie's supporting hand, standing tall and steady. Only the lingering redness and swelling around his eyes betrayed any sign of distress. He squinted slightly as he peered toward the doorway, adjusting to the bright light. "Old Dixon? What brings you here?" Old Garcia rubbed his eyes, his expression one of genuine