Despite his command over external affairs, Damian Sterling remained eternally a child before his grandfather, whose face, though lined with wrinkles, still radiated the undeniable authority of his younger days. Aware of Damian's obstinate and obsessive nature, his grandfather, agitated, tapped his cane sharply on the floor. "This will not be allowed. Do not force me to be unkind," he warned sternly.
Damian clenched his teeth, holding back further words, rising abruptly to leave. Behind him, his grandfather coughed several times from the couch. Pausing, Damian turned to look back, but upon hearing no more coughs, he remained silent, lifted his chin, and moved forward.
That morning, Emma Hart rose with Damian. As they began their day, Mrs. Harris approached with an invitation in hand. "Mr. Sterling, the driver came for the invitation. Are you sending this to Miss Greenwood?" she asked.
