In the evening, the fading sunlight bathed the Smith family garden, casting a warm glow that made everything around seem soft and peaceful. Emma walked slowly along the gravel path, her arm linked with her grandfather James's.
"Grandfather, how have you been feeling lately? Is there anything that's bothering you?" Emma asked softly, her voice full of concern.
James stopped walking, turned slightly to look at her, and smiled playfully. "I'm in great health! Why the sudden concern for this old man? Aren't you usually too busy thinking about your dates with that Noah guy?"
When Emma heard the name "Noah," her heart tightened painfully. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her emotions. "Grandfather, will you go for a check-up? I'm really worried about your health."
James looked at her, and though his eyes were still full of affection, there was now a hint of seriousness. He gently patted her hand. "What's wrong, my little princess? Something's bothering you. You've never been this anxious before."
Emma paused for a moment, her gaze dropping as she struggled with herself. She couldn't directly tell her grandfather about the danger he might be facing or mention William Brown's plot. Instead, she used a vague excuse to cover up. "I saw a news story today about an elderly person who was in good health but suddenly… passed away. I'm scared, Grandfather. I don't want to lose you."
James looked surprised for a moment, then burst out laughing. "Silly child, your grandfather isn't old enough for that yet. But since you're so worried, I'll have the medical team come to the house tomorrow for a check-up, alright?"
Emma shook her head, her gaze firm and filled with unprecedented determination. "Grandfather, please go to the Smith family's private hospital for a full check-up. The medical team handles your regular health needs, but I want a more thorough examination." She couldn't let Mia Armstrong or William notice anything unusual.
James furrowed his brow, clearly surprised, but soon he was moved by Emma's resolute expression. He affectionately ruffled her hair. "Alright, alright, we'll do as our little princess says."
Emma breathed a sigh of relief and forced a smile, though her worries didn't subside.
The next morning, Emma woke up early and accompanied her grandfather James to the Smith family's private hospital. In her past life, this hospital had been one of the family's proud assets, but Emma knew that, beneath the surface, it had been used to create fake health reports to cover up her father William's conspiracy. To be cautious, Emma secretly brought her grandfather's regular medication with her. She needed to confirm for herself whether these medications were truly as "safe" as they appeared.
On the way, James turned his head and looked at Emma's concerned expression. He teased her in a lighthearted tone, "Emma, you're acting really strange today. I almost wonder if I've upset you, making you try to 'please' me like this."
Emma forced a smile. "Grandfather, you're the most important person to me. How could I be upset with you? I just feel like I've always relied on you but never really done much for you. This time, let me show a little filial piety."
James laughed heartily, but his gaze softened. "Your thoughtfulness is already more than enough for me."
At the hospital, Emma had already arranged for the most trustworthy director to secretly conduct the examination. She stayed by James's side throughout, paying attention to every detail. While the doctor was examining James, she quietly handed the director the medication her grandfather took. "Director, please check the ingredients of these medications," Emma said politely, though her eyes betrayed her anxiety. "I suspect something might be wrong with them. Please keep this confidential."
The director was surprised but nodded and took the medication. "Alright, Miss Emma, I'll get the results to you as soon as possible."
After the examination, Emma helped her grandfather out of the room. James patted her hand reassuringly. "Don't worry, my health is fine. Stop overthinking."
Emma nodded but secretly vowed: No matter what happens, this time, I will not let anything happen to you, Grandfather.
"Why this sudden concern?" James asked lightly. "The company is doing fine, and with me around, there won't be any problems."
Emma thought for a moment, holding her grandfather's hand. "Grandfather, if one day I can help share your burdens, I won't hesitate to do so."
James was momentarily taken aback, then laughed heartily. "Good child, it comforts me to know you feel this way. But for now, the most important thing is for you to focus on your studies. Only then will you be able to protect yourself and the family in the future."
Emma's gaze darkened slightly, her resolve growing even stronger in her heart: Grandfather, this time, I will protect you.