Chapter 21

　　Joseph froze, his brow furrowing slightly. "Grandfather! You..." 　　William's expression remained serious. 　　"What? Did I say something wrong? You and Kathy have known each other since childhood, and you both understand each other's personalities. Not to mention, she even saved your life..." His face grew even darker as he continued, "You're not rejecting her because of Kathy's leg disability, are you?" 　　"Of course not." 　　William asked again, "Then what?" 　　Joseph spoke slowly, "She saved me, and I am grateful, but gratitude and affection are not the same thing. I only take her as my sister. Whether it is to repay her or out of sympathy, it is unfair to both of us." 　　"Don't tell me all this nonsense. I just want to ask you, will you marry her or not?" William's tone was icy. 　　Joseph's thin lips tightened, yet his stance remained unwavering. 　　"I'm sorry, but I can't comply." 　　Having said that, he stood there with his hands hanging down, waiting for a more violent storm to come.