Lost and Found: Return of My Mysterious Fiancee
Chapter 897: Grandpa, Don’t Be Too Greedy

From the moment Kaleigh entered, River had been holding herself together with calm restraint. But Kaleigh's last words broke through her defenses. Hatred erupted in River's eyes as her nails dug into her palms, breaking the skin without her even noticing. "It's all because of Alina and Tina! They ruined my reputation, destroyed my image in Ruud's eyes. He was so heartless to me, in front of everyone!"

Kaleigh patted River's shoulder, her tone probing. "River, so what are you planning to do next?"

River's face fell at the question. Her voice was weak and hesitant. "Dad has already warned me to behave. If I cause another scandal like the one that embarrassed the Swanson family last time, he..."

"River," Kaleigh interrupted, her voice light but pointed, "Dad only asked you not to embarrass the Swanson family again. If you handle things flawlessly, he won't do anything to you."

River's expression darkened as she pondered. Her eyes glinted with uncertainty. "You might as well just tell me why you're really here."

Seeing that her intentions couldn't be hidden, Kaleigh put on a pitiful expression, her voice a mix of truth and exaggeration. "River, I ran into Tina, and she treated me just like she treated you. That mother and daughter duo really know how to pick their targets."

River's brows furrowed as she sat up straighter, the sound of her ankle chain scraping against the floor. "Tina dares to treat you like that only because she's Ruud's daughter."

Kaleigh grew anxious. "Then what are you waiting for? Take Ruud back! If you let Ruud and Alina get married, you'll be left with nothing!"

River bit her lip. She clearly understood Kaleigh's intentions. "Don't you want to get your revenge?"

River knew her sister well. Kaleigh wanted her to act while staying on the sidelines herself. Kaleigh gave a playful smile. "Then it's settled. Once you're out, we'll plan it together." River nodded heavily, signaling her agreement.

At the Pace family estate, Tina and Jared returned home late after spending the day out.

The new house was almost completely furnished. These tasks didn't require Jared's direct involvement, but he insisted on participating. After all, it was their home, and he wanted to take care of it personally. More importantly, it gave him an excuse to spend more time with Tina.

Jared dropped Tina off at the Pace family's door before leaving.

When Tina stepped inside, she saw Grandpa Pace waiting for her in the living room. It was clear he had been deliberately staying up for her.

As soon as she walked in, Grandpa Pace grabbed her hand and said anxiously, "Tina, don't mind your Grand Aunt's temper. That's just how she is. You're the only granddaughter of the Pace family. As long as I'm here, no one will dare treat you badly."

Grandpa Pace had been worried that Mia might have upset Tina. When Tina had been out the entire day, he had started to worry she might not come back at all. He had even been about to send someone to look for her when she finally walked through the door.

Relieved, he wasted no time in clarifying the Pace family's stance. Although he had defended Tina earlier when Mia criticized her, he hadn't been too harsh with Mia, as she had just returned, and he didn't want to embarrass her. Still, his defense wasn't as strong as Ruud's.

Tina had almost forgotten about Mia entirely until Grandpa Pace brought her up. She blinked for a moment before realizing what he was referring to. "I didn't take it to heart, Grandpa. You don't have to worry." Aside from Grandpa Pace, Tina didn't feel much attachment to anyone in the Pace family.

Growing up without familial affection, she had come to appreciate the sense of family now that she had it, even if her feelings were limited. She genuinely respected Grandpa Pace.

As for Ruud, although she had accepted him on the surface, her heart hadn't fully embraced him.

The rest of the Pace family? She wouldn't compromise herself for their sake. As long as they didn't bother her, she was willing to maintain a peaceful relationship.

But if anyone deliberately caused her trouble, she wouldn't hesitate to retaliate.

Grandpa Pace had some weight in her heart, but it wasn't much. Compared to Ian and Logan, the warmth he offered was far less significant.

It wasn't that Tina was cold or ungrateful toward her grandfather, but the time they had spent together was brief, and Ian and Logan had given her more consistent care.

Oblivious to Tina's thoughts, Grandpa Pace smiled and said, "She's only staying here for a short time. When the time comes, she'll leave on her own."

Tina understood what he meant and smiled faintly. "Grandpa, you should rest early. Staying up late isn't good for your health."

Her words were simple, born out of genuine concern for an elder. But to Grandpa Pace, they were like a soothing balm.

It was as if someone had handed him a warm cup of tea on a cold winter day, filling him with warmth from head to toe.

"Having a granddaughter is really different," Grandpa Pace said softly, holding Tina's hand. "I have three sons. Except for your Uncle Boris, your dad and your Uncle Edwin are always away. Now that I'm old, I often feel lonely."

He let out a sigh. "Even though Boris stays with me, sons and daughters just aren't the same. At most, he keeps me company. He can't offer anything more. My old friends all have families full of children and grandchildren. Those without daughters have devoted daughters-in-law or granddaughters who are so caring toward them. I'm always envious when I see it."

"I've always hoped your father, Boris, or Edwin would get married and give me a granddaughter. But I never expected your father to quietly have such a grown-up daughter. You don't know how happy I was when I found out you were my granddaughter. Finally, someone who cares about me."

He paused and looked at Tina seriously. "Tina, I'm telling you all this not because I'm being sentimental but to let you know that the Pace family has deep waters. Things aren't always as simple as they appear. Sometimes, in certain decisions, I might seem biased. I hope you can understand."

Tina studied him for a moment before breaking into a smile. "Grandpa, you said all that just to prepare for that last sentence, didn't you?" Grandpa Pace looked embarrassed, his face reddening.

Tina chuckled. "The Pace family's matters have nothing to do with me. But since I've accepted the Pace family, there are things I'll naturally have to manage. Besides, I'm currently working on behalf of the country. Some things cannot be shaken!"

Her smile disappeared, replaced by a stern expression. "I understand your desire to ensure the Pace family's legacy and protect your family. I also believe you genuinely care about me. But, Grandpa, people can't be too greedy. You can't have everything."