Chapter 994:
Without warning, Sean lifted his glass toward Rylie and proposed a toast. Countless sentiments seemed to press forward inside him, yet they condensed into two simple truths: an apology and a note of gratitude.
Brad watched his grandfather for an extended moment, his eyes steady and contemplative.
Rylie responded with a soft, composed smile. “You are welcome.”
A gentle wave of ease swept through the Owen household.
Kendrick surveyed the table overflowing with cheerful voices and easy laughter, and a warm surge rose in his chest. He lifted his glass high and announced in a resonant tone, “All right, everyone, it is Christmas. Whatever happened before, whatever lies ahead, may our family, along with Sean and Brad, enjoy safety, good health, and success in every pursuit. And also…”
He shifted his gaze pointedly toward Rylie and Brad. “…May those destined for one another ultimately find their way together. May harmony and good fortune fill this home.”
𝘐𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘴.𝘤𝘰𝘮
Everyone echoed the blessing as glasses were raised. Even Sean, after a brief pause, picked up the glass resting before him. A bright chorus of clinking crystal followed, crisp and clear. For a fleeting moment, the chill that once divided them felt dissolved by the warmth of the season and the warmth of kinship.
When the meal concluded, Sean did not depart at once. He remained on the sofa in the living room, quietly observing the Owen brothers and Rylie as they worked together to tidy up. He watched Brad, a little awkward yet earnest, helping to wipe down the surfaces. He watched Rylie preparing a fresh pot of hot coffee for the elders with patient care.
He lingered in silence for an extended while. Only when the night had settled into its quiet depths did he finally rise to take his leave.
Brad set aside the cloth he had been holding. “I will walk him out.”
Pausing at the doorway, Sean turned for a final glance at Brad, his escort. Brad dipped his head slightly. “Grandpa, my apologies.”
Even with the apology, he had no intention of returning to the house that had unsettled him for years.
Sean spoke with a quiet mix of emotion. “You are happy, relaxing here.”
Brad froze for a heartbeat—not once had his grandfather spoken to him with that kind of recognition.
“From now on, you decide your path in whatever way feels right to you.” With that, Sean stepped into the sharp chill of Christmas Eve, his usually firm posture carrying a touch of loneliness wrapped in relief.
Brad stayed by the door and watched Sean until the car disappeared down the drive.
Rylie stood waiting in the foyer. She said nothing as she reached for his slightly cold hand, and warmth flowed into him as soon as she touched him.
Brad closed his fingers around hers. As he watched his friends laughing beneath the soft light of the living room, the turmoil stirred by his grandfather’s visit settled into something steadier and warmer.
After dinner, everyone gathered around the Christmas tree to exchange gifts.
.
.
.