Chapter 454
“He certainly has a flair for dramatic persuasion.”
Gary adjusted his glasses nervously. “Brayden, his drastic actions blindsided all of us—we never imagined his attachment to Delia ran that deep. I’ve also come to relay a message from my parents.”
He paused before continuing. “They’ve made it clear: if Delia integrates calmly into the family without further disruption, they’ll allow it. But should she stir up additional conflict, Dad will revoke Gifford’s authority over the company. After all, he’s not the only heir.”
A heavy quiet descended upon the room.
Gracie’s eyes widened at the revelation.
This ultimatum firmly outlined the Russells’ position: continued indulgence of Delia’s behavior would cost Gifford their full backing—securing the couple’s wealth but curtailing his longstanding influence, a devastating blow for someone accustomed to wielding substantial power.
Noting the edge softening in Brayden’s demeanor, Gary offered a respectful bow and excused himself.
Silence returned once he departed.
Gracie traced soothing circles over Brayden’s tense hand. “At least the rest of the family is setting firm boundaries now. Given all the current risks and unpredictability, it’s better not to cultivate avoidable adversaries.”
She checked her phone briefly before adding, “On another note, remember that seminar coming up this weekend?”
“Shouldn’t we postpone it?” Brayden’s concern resurfaced. “You’re only just recovering—I’m not comfortable with you pushing yourself.”
The event itself wasn’t the priority; it was the timing that carried critical weight.
Her expression turned resolute. “Everything proceeds as planned. I’ll manage just fine—don’t fret. Jessie will be there to back me up that day.”
Recognizing her unyielding resolve in her steady gaze, Brayden relented with a nod. “All right. Rest assured, I’ll ensure she slips away undetected.”
Gracie remained under observation for three complete days.
In that period, Quentin and Cathie stopped by to express their gratitude, though Gifford notably stayed away.
At discharge, Yousef assisted her in gathering her minimal belongings. “Allow me to drive you back—it’s your first day out of the hospital; you shouldn’t head home solo.”
Gracie smiled appreciatively but declined. “I’m truly feeling much better. I need to swing by the office first anyway.” She explained, “We’re launching a major new initiative soon, and with the weekend seminar approaching, there are pressing matters I must handle today.”
“No need to be so formal around me.” Yousef persisted warmly, reaching for her bag. “Gracie, I practically pleaded with Brayden to let me escort you today. Do me this favor, or I’ll be wracked with guilt.”
His eyes dropped, shadowed by evident remorse.
A gentle chuckle escaped her, drawing his confused gaze upward. “What’s so funny? Was my plea not convincing?”
“Not at all,” she reassured him, shaking her head. “Your earnestness shines through as always. You’ve been a true friend to me from the start—nothing like Gifford in that regard.”
Emotion welled in Yousef’s eyes as shame prompted him to avert his face. “Gifford allowed Delia to target you so viciously, and now he’s actually marrying her. I can barely bring myself to face you after all you’ve done for us, only for him to—”
“Enough,” Gracie cut in gently but firmly. “People choose their own roads in life. Gifford has selected his, and I’ll steer clear of both him and Delia moving forward. But that doesn’t alter our bond—you’re still my dear friend. Aren’t you heading out to drop me at the office?” she teased lightly, stepping into the hallway.
Gratitude brightened Yousef’s expression, swiftly mingling with a deeper, bittersweet flicker as he trailed after her. “Just friends, then,” he whispered with a wry, resigned smile. “I suppose that’s as far as it goes for us.”
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