Thorns Grow After Betrayal (Celeste and Chester) novel Chapter 310

Dealing with these two old foxes was a job best left to Luther.

Murdock was a slippery operator—Luther could tell what game he was playing the second he walked in.

He was obviously here about that company he’d started on the sly.

“Dad, Jade’s getting engaged soon. We were hoping you could paint something for her as an engagement gift. For good luck, you know?”

Murdock’s smile was all sincerity.

Luther’s gaze shifted from Murdock to the young woman behind him, his interest piqued.

“So, who’s the poor soul with such terrible taste, willing to marry this little troublemaker?”

Jade bit her lip, fighting the urge to snap back.

If it weren’t for her father’s need to make a buck, she’d never have come here just to play the part of a happy, harmonious family.

Edna’s eyes filled with tears. “Dad, Jade may have the Lane name, but after all these years, she’s as much a part of the Selwyn family as anyone. For Murdock’s sake, can’t you give the child a wedding gift? I’m begging you.”

Murdock chimed in, “She’s right, Dad. Honestly, I’ve never asked you for anything! Even if you won’t do it for me, think about my brother—if he were still with us, he’d want the family to be at peace, for all our sakes!”

Crack! Luther’s cane landed hard on Murdock’s back.

Murdock yelped and sprang upright.

“And what right do you have to mention your brother? After the way you all treated Celly, I swear you’ve forgotten everything but your own self-interest!”

Luther was shaking with anger.

Celestine recognized that her grandfather was at his limit.

But this was hardly the time to let things end here.

“Uncle, what are you really here for? If you just wanted to visit Grandpa and share Jade’s good news, you can leave now.”

“The only bad luck in this house is you. And those two? At best, they’re just drifting through.”

Murdock’s face turned purple with indignation.

But with no leverage, he could only force a smile and keep playing along.

“If it really would help the family, I’d drift, float, or whatever you want!”

Luther wanted to knock him over the head again just for that grin.

“Let me make myself clear: I don’t care who she’s marrying, or what kind of engagement or divorce it is—I won’t be painting any gifts, and you can forget about me picking up a brush.”

Edna’s eyes were full of resentment, but she covered it up in an instant.

She stepped forward and dropped to her knees with a thud.

“Dad, is it me you have a problem with, or Murdock? All these years, Murdock’s done everything just to please you. If you don’t want to see me or Jade, we stay out of your way. Sure, your second son had his achievements, but Murdock is your flesh and blood too. How can you be so unfair?”