38

"Grandpa..." Max exhaled in frustration, rubbing the back of his neck. "Why would you do that?"

Grandpa Norman didn't even look up, casually popping another melon seed into his mouth. "Because you're too slow. Do you really think you can win her over by yourself?"

Max was left speechless for a moment, clicking his tongue. "I think I can."

"Sure, you do." Grandpa snickered, leaning back in his chair. "Anyway, I did my part. The engagement is tomorrow, and Ol' Langley is also expecting you both to come together. If you're not interested, I can call and let her know. But I'm sure you wouldn’t want to embarrass her. And don’t forget, you owe her a thank you for picking you up when you came back. Perfect chance."

Max opened his mouth to retort but found himself at a loss. The old man was right—he hadn’t thanked her yet. Alexa had gone out of her way to help him and even bought a bar under his name.

"I’m going upstairs to shower," Max muttered, heading toward the staircase. "Don’t bother c