As I sat across from the older man, his scrutinizing gaze felt like a silent interrogation. He didn't reveal much on his face, his expression as unreadable as ever, but his eyes were sharp, evaluating me in ways I couldn't yet grasp.
This was Jeremiah Soren III, Chairman of Soren Industries, and more importantly, Ethan's grandfather. The legendary titan of business, known for his shrewdness and resilience, seemed to peer right through me.
"Is this her? The one you mentioned to me before?" he asked Ethan, his voice so low and gravelly that it barely reached me.
I felt Ethan's hand wrap warmly around mine, a comforting gesture that made my heart flutter as his eyes met mine. He gave a reassuring squeeze.
"Yes, grandpa," Ethan replied confidently, his tone warm but resolute. "This is Xandria, my girlfriend."