Sure To Cause Friction

Grandma Jia's eyes, sharp and perceptive, narrowed slightly as Flynn finished his explanation. She saw through his carefully chosen words, his attempt to shield Vernon from her wrath. She recognized the subtle nuances of his diplomacy, the delicate balance he was trying to maintain.

She knew that he was trying to protect her son, to prevent a public confrontation, but she also knew that Vernon's behavior could not be ignored. If she let him get away with it, he would try it again so she needed to teach him a lesson.

She settled into the leather chair behind the desk, her gaze sweeping between Flynn, who stood with an air of quiet composure, and Vernon, whose face betrayed his guilt and resentment. She watched them both, her eyes like a hawk scrutinizing its prey, searching for any sign of deception.

"Vernon," she began, her voice low and steady, "what do you have to say about your behavior towards Flynn?"