“Everyone has their biases, after all. They still wouldn’t necessarily be on the same page even if Serenity were his actual sister-in-law. Sometimes, the ones who wish most for your failure are your own flesh and blood.”

“That logic applies to most, but not to River and his cousin’s wife.”

Decades of life had honed Old Mr. Lafayette’s judgment to razor-sharpness.

“I can tell Ms. Serenity genuinely treats River as if he were her younger brother, and he respects her deeply in return. They’re like real siblings.

“So, she’ll always take his side. From now on, you should keep your distance. Otherwise, you’ll be caught between them, sold out, and you’d still be counting their earnings for them.”

Rosalie’s cheeks flushed. “Grandpa, do you really think I’m that stupid? How could I let them play me like that?

“Besides, Serenity is just here on vacation. She’ll leave Solville in a few days. What could she possibly pull?

“I just adore her children. Those two are unbelievably adorable. If y