Bride To Be Not Me (Janice and Simon)

Myra and Terry had come specifically to visit Robert.

The family gathered around the dining table, where a man sat at the head. He exuded a composed and commanding presence.

His mannerisms were refined, his speech measured and unhurried. Though he carried an air of authority, there was no harshness in his demeanor-just a quiet, effortless gravitas.

Despite the serious energy he projected, a faint smile lingered on his lips.

This was Robert, the patriarch of the Moore family.

"Dad, are you spending New Year's at home?" Calvin asked.

Contrary to the rigid, formal image that outsiders had of the Moore family, the atmosphere around the table was warm, relaxed, and familial. Conversation flowed easily, much like any ordinary household.

"I should be," Robert replied thoughtfully before turning his gaze to Barbara. "But isn't your mother planning to spend New Year's in Greenfield City?"

"Yes, I have to stay. The artifact restoration isn't finished yet," Barbara responded.

She had originally trusted Heidi to oversee the project, but given the current circumstances, that was no longer a viable option.

"Alright then," Robert said. "I'll finish up my work over the next few days and join you all in Greenfield City."

Throughout the meal, Edward mostly stayed quiet and just listened as the family discussed industry matters. With only Matilda and him involved in business, it was hard for him to join in.

After dinner, Robert sat in the living room, sipping his tea. When he had finished half his cup, he stood up and made his way toward the study.

"Edward, come with me."

The moment Robert called his name, the rest of the Moores instinctively turned to look at Edward.

Without a word, Edward grabbed his phone and followed Robert upstairs.

Years ago, Edward and Robert had a significant falling-out over Edward's choice to pursue business, and since then, their relationship had been distant, maintained only by a veneer of politeness.

Concerned that another argument might break out, Barbara subtly signaled to Calvin, urging him to eavesdrop by the door.

Inside the study, two couches were placed side by side.

Robert settled into one and motioned for Edward to take the other.

The room was quiet for a moment, with neither of them speaking right away.

As the elder, Robert eventually broke the silence with a light chuckle. "Are you still holding a grudge against your old man?"

Edward hadn't expected Robert-a man always preoccupied with state affairs-to be the first to speak up.

"No. I just didn't want to say

anything that might upset you, so

thought it'd be best to keep quiet."noveldrama

Edward had always been someone who avoided unnecessary conflict.

But when it came to matters of principle, he was the most determined of the

Moore siblings. Once he made a decision, nothing could sway him.

Robert's teasing tone returned. "I hear my son is in love."

It wasn't exactly news to anyone.

Though Robert had been away from home for years, he stayed up to date with every news report, never missing a single detail about his

children no matter how busy he was.

"Yes." Edward hesitated for a moment before admitting, "I like her."

He spoke plainly, hoping Robert would understand and not say anything that

could put additional strain on their already fragile relationship.

Robert chuckled, sipping his tea as the silence stretched between them.

"Do you really think I'm just some outdated, narrow-minded old man?" he finally asked.

Edward's gaze faltered for a moment. "Of course not."

"Then why does it sound like you're testing me?"

Having spent nearly 30 years in government, Robert had dealt with foreign dignitaries, high-ranking officials, and countless schemers. There wasn't a person he couldn't read.

"Don't worry," Robert assured him. "I'm not going to make things difficult for a young woman. I had my secretary check into her background-that's all."

Edward's expression darkened slightly. He hated when anyone interfered in his personal life.

"Focus on your relationship," Robert continued. "Don't let unnecessary drama get

in the way. If you ever run into trouble, come to me."

"If you ever run into trouble, come to me."

It had been 12 years since Edward last heard those words from Robert.

The last time was when he left for his studies abroad.