Chapter 27
The silence became increasingly uncomfortable, particularly for the Page family.
Judy exchanged a glance with Henry, both pleasantly surprised by Kathleen’s calm confidence. She appeared delicate but was clearly capable of holding her own.
The Silva family might not have the same status as the Vances, but they were still a respectable family. And clearly, they’d raised a daughter who knew how to carry herself.
Unable to contain himself any longer, Ryan angrily snapped, “Kathleen, now that you’ve married up, do you think you’re better than me?”
Shawn finally spoke, voice calm yet stern, “The Pages really lack their manners. In the past, speaking that rudely would’ve earned him a beating.” “Why you…” Ryan began, fuming.
“Shut up!” Raymond interrupted sharply, scolding Ryan. “Where are your manners?”
Ryan clenched his jaw in frustration but said nothing further.
“He’s been spoiled since childhood and lacks discipline,” Raymond apologized quickly. “I promise, I’ll straighten him out once we’re home.”
“Mr. Page, I’m not clear why exactly you’ve come here today,” Shawn interjected, leaning back comfortably, his posture mirroring Henry’s commanding presence.
Raymond cleared his throat awkwardly, glancing toward Kathleen. “We truly hope you’ll show us some mercy and give us a chance.”
Shawn gave him an indifferent look. “Do you think a few simple words can erase what’s already happened?”
Raymond, a seasoned businessman, quickly realized that being relatives wouldn’t earn them any mercy from Shawn. Then, he turned angrily toward Ryan. “Apologize to your aunt right now!”
Ryan’s eyes widened in disbelief.
“What are you waiting for?” Raymond snapped, smacking Ryan on the head and whispering harshly, “If you mess this up, you won’t see another cent from me!”
Ryan felt completely humiliated, especially in front of Shawn and Kathleen. Burning with anger, he forced the words out through clenched teeth. “I’m sorry.”
Shawn said nothing, appearing completely unmoved, while Kathleen stared at her lap, nervously twisting her fingers.
Raymond anxiously glanced at Henry and Judy, who remained silent. It was clear they were displeased with the insincere apology.
“Speak louder and address her properly!” Raymond slapped Ryan, urging sharply.
Ryan cienched his fists, his eyes turning red with anger. He glared viciously at Kathleen before reluctantly forcing out, “I’m sorry, Aunt Kathleen!”
Hearing his shout made Kathleen’s scalp tingle. She reluctantly looked up, saw the anger in Ryan’s eyes, and felt a ripple of fear.
Before she could respond, Shawn intervened. “Forget it,” Shawn replied coldly. “Such an unwilling apology is meaningless.” Ryan fixed Shawn with a furious stare.
Shawn remained unperturbed, calmly returning Ryan’s glare.
After a tense moment, Ryan looked away first.
“That’s enough,” Henry finally said. “We’re relatives, after all. He’s acknowledged his mistake. Let this be a lesson learned.” Ryan’s expression still remained dark.
