Remington's lips curved upward slightly. "Because deep down, you don't actually hate me, and you still approve of me?"
Nelson let out a sharp bark of laughter. "You're certainly optimistic."
Remington's smile faded. "It's not optimism. It's just that I've decided Liz is the only woman for me in this lifetime, and I'm prepared to fight you to the bitter end for her."
Nelson stared heavily at Remington, and the younger man met his gaze without flinching. His eyes were steady, entirely unhidden in their absolute sincerity and determination.
Nelson's chest rose and fell slightly before he finally spoke.
"If your first reaction hadn't been to shield Liz, I would never have given you the chance to step foot inside this house."
Remington paused.
When the apple had come crashing down, he assumed Nelson was just furious and had lashed out with whatever was nearby.
He hadn't realized it was a deliberate test.
But since his subconscious instinct was always to protect Lizetta, he wasn't afraid of such trials.
He let out a helpless sigh. "Grandpa, you're getting up there in years. Next time, try to avoid playing such dangerous games. If my reflexes were just a fraction of a second slower, you would have smashed your precious granddaughter right in the face."
Nelson didn't deny it.
If Remington's reflexes were that slow, if he couldn't protect Lizetta, it would only prove that his affection was an act and he didn't care as much as he claimed.
In a moment of crisis, the body's natural instincts never lied.
"You might have some genuine feelings for her, but the two of you aren't a good match. I won't agree to let you be together just because of that."
The old man's voice was heavy with finality, still steadfast in his opposition.
Remington had never expected Nelson to give his blessing so easily. His expression remained unchanged as he smiled calmly.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Shattered Illusions Love Lies and Redemption (Lizetta and Remington)