Chapter 1766: Chapter 1980

At the moment, Norton’s bedroom was a hive of activity, crowded with the family’s elders and younger members alike, all in a state of disarray.

Cutting through the crowd, Kern led Lucinda and Hilliard to the bedside.

Despite Norton’s recent vibrancy, thanks to Colby and Destinee, he now appeared significantly aged.

Lucinda inquired of the medical team, “Grandpa was in good spirits last night.

What caused such a sudden downturn?”

Dr.

Robles stepped forward, explaining, “Mr.

Payne suffers from high blood pressure and hypoglycemia.

It seems he may have ingested something that interfered with his medication.

”

Lucinda’s brow furrowed, sensing foul play, yet she held her tongue amidst the throng of people.

She made room for Hilliard to examine Norton, hoping for a deeper understanding.

Outside, the corridor buzzed with anxiety, the family’s unease palpable as they grappled with Norton’s unexpected illness.

Lucinda’s patience wore thin amidst the clamor.

“Enough with the noise,” she snapped.

“Grandpa needs quiet for his recovery.

The room is too crowded, stifling even.

Please, everyone, head downstairs.

I’ll update you as necessary.

”

Kern, quick to heed her directive, collaborated with the household staff, ushering the crowd to the living room below.

Amidst the dispersing throng, only Ronan remained steadfast, a figure of grief beside Norton’s bed, his sobs cutting through the tension.

Lucinda, unable to bear the display of emotion, fixed Ronan with a stern gaze.

“Why the tears? It’s a minor illness.

Are your sobs meant to hex him?”

Ronan’s tear-streaked face was a picture of anguish.

“Hex my grandfather? He’s the kindest elder to me in the Payne family.

Seeing him like this, unresponsive, it breaks my heart.

”

Lucinda’s face remained impassive.

”

Tears don’t equate to true sadness.

If you’re truly remorseful, prove it.

Go to the ancestral temple and subject yourself to ten lashes.

That, I believe, would convey your sincerity far better.

”

Ronan’s sorrow quickly gave way to resentment.

“You think I deserve death by lashes? That’s what ten would mean.

Is that what you wish upon me?”

Lucinda’s response came as a sneer.

“It’s merely a suggestion.

Besides, your weeping does nothing for grandpa’s recovery.

It could even hinder the medical team and Hilliard.

Are your tears genuine concern, or just for show?”

Ronan rose, indignation fueling his retort.

“My concern is as real as it gets! Unlike you, a mere in-law, I share his blood.

You can’t possibly fathom my grief.

”

Lucinda’s reply was a disdainful look, knowing well that further conversation would lead nowhere.

Turning to Kern, she requested, “Please escort Ronan out.

His presence is obstructive.

”

Ronan bristled at the suggestion.

“Why must I leave? Just because you say so? Nathan’s absence doesn’t give you authority over the Payne family.

” His tone remained composed, showing the family scion’s grandeur, yet his eyes, peering over gold-rimmed glasses, dripped with sarcasm.

Kern interjected, clearing his throat, “Mr.

Ronan Payne, please, hold your tongue.

Mrs.

Payne is hardly an outsider.

As Mr.

Norton Payne’s daughter-in-law, treated by him as a granddaughter, and Mr.

Nathan Payne’s lawful wife, she rightfully stands in his stead.

”

At Kern’s words, Ronan found himself at a loss for words.

Kern pressed on, “Moreover, Mr.

Nathan Payne holds Mrs.

Payne in high regard.

Should he learn of your provocations, deeming her as an outsider, I doubt he’d let it slide.

”

Silenced, Ronan could only gulp, his gaze fixed on Lucinda, fear evident in his eyes.

Ever since Nathan took the reins of the Payne family, Ronan had felt the sting of discipline more than once, leaving him with a deep-seated dread.

Lucinda, standing with her arms crossed, wore a smirk of triumph.

“Well, Ronan, will you make your exit, or must I call upon a servant to escort you out?”