Explain Physical Condition

After clarifying matters with the hospital director, Emma finally felt slightly relieved. However, on the drive back home, her mind remained a whirlwind of thoughts as she strategized her next move. "Should I be upfront with Grandfather about his health condition and use the opportunity to get rid of Mia Armstrong? Or should I continue keeping it a secret and quietly alert him instead?" With one hand on the steering wheel, her gaze turned deep and contemplative as she weighed the pros and cons of each option.

If she chose to disclose Grandfather's health issues, it would give her a legitimate reason to criticize Mia for failing in her duties as his private doctor, which had allowed his condition to deteriorate. This could pave the way to removing Mia from the Smith family. However, such a move might tip William off to the brewing trouble. Backed into a corner, William could resort to drastic, unpredictable actions, putting everyone at risk. On the other hand, if Emma decided to keep the matter under wraps and privately informed Grandfather while ensuring he took the new medications, she could temporarily maintain the façade of normalcy and avoid alarming William and Mia. Yet, this approach would leave Mia—an inherently dangerous figure—untouched. As Grandfather's private doctor of five years, and with her contract recently renewed at the start of the year, removing Mia without a valid reason would undoubtedly arouse William's suspicions.

"Damn it," Emma muttered under her breath, massaging her temples as a dull headache began to set in. "That despicable pair—William and Mia Armstrong—will pay for this one day, without a doubt." Ultimately, she made her decision. "For now, my top priority is to protect Grandfather's health. I can't afford to take any risks. I'll keep it a secret and speak to him privately."

As Emma's car rolled into the Smith family estate, she adjusted her emotions, determined to appear as composed as ever. By the time she stepped out of the vehicle, her demeanor was calm and collected, betraying nothing of the storm raging within her. Inside the house, her interactions were as seamless as usual, showing no signs of deviation—even when she crossed paths with William and Mia. She managed polite greetings and casual exchanges with the pair, her outward composure unshakable.

After dinner, Emma seized an opportune moment. While William was busy on a phone call in the lounge, she approached her grandfather, James, and quietly leaned closer. "Grandfather, if you're free, I'd like to have a word with you in the study," she said softly. James looked at her with his usual kind smile and gave her shoulder an affectionate pat. "What is it, my dear Emma? Is there something you need help with?" Emma's expression turned serious, her tone carrying a hint of gravity. "Grandfather, it's something important. I need to speak with you privately."

James raised an eyebrow, sensing her unusual tone, but his smile didn't waver. "Alright, alright, you little rascal. What is it now that you need from your old grandfather? Let's head to the study."

Once inside the study, Emma carefully closed the door, ensuring their privacy. James settled into a chair, picking up his teacup and taking a sip before looking up at her. His gaze was still gentle, though curiosity gleamed in his eyes. "Now then, what's this all about?"

Emma stepped closer, lowering herself slightly to take his hand in hers. Her voice was low, her expression earnest. "Grandfather, this is about your health. I've recently learned from the hospital director that your condition is more fragile than we initially believed. You need to start taking a new medication regimen right away. I've already consulted with the director, and he has arranged for the most renowned cardiologist, Dr. Yasbelly, to prescribe the appropriate medicine. I'll personally collect it tomorrow."

James's expression shifted subtly, a faint crease appearing on his brow. "Emma, are you hiding something from me? The doctors have always said my condition was stable."

Emma lowered her gaze, a flicker of sorrow in her eyes. "Grandfather, I only discovered the issue today. It seems the previous medications weren't entirely effective. But you don't have to worry—the new treatment plan has been tailored by the best expert, and I'm confident it will help you recover."

James let out a quiet sigh, setting his teacup down with a soft clink. A faint, serene smile crossed his face as he spoke, his tone calm. "It seems you're more worried about me than I am about myself. I know my body isn't what it used to be, but that's just the way life goes, my dear. Birth, aging, illness, and death—they're all part of the journey. There's no need for you to be so distressed."

He placed his warm hand over hers, giving it a reassuring pat. Emma's chest tightened at his words, the calm acceptance in his voice stirring an ache deep within her. Tears welled up in her eyes, and she lowered her head, her voice trembling. "No, Grandfather, you will get better. I won't let anything happen to you. I promise."

James's heart softened at the sight of her tears, and he hurriedly tried to console her, reaching out to gently wipe them away. "My little Emma, don't cry. Grandfather won't say such gloomy things anymore, alright? Seeing my little princess cry is enough to break my heart." His tone was soothing yet tinged with urgency, as though desperate to ease her pain.

Emma took a deep breath, forcing herself to smile as she wiped her tears away. "It's alright," she thought. "Grandfather is still here. This time, I'll protect him with everything I have."

Steadying herself, Emma met his gaze with newfound determination. "Grandfather, the hospital director also mentioned that you need to reduce your workload. From now on, you'll only work half-days. Leave the rest to me. I've decided to join the Smith family business and help ease your burden."

James paused, his expression shifting to one of surprise. Slowly, he set his tea aside, studying her intently. "Emma, I thought you had no interest in the business world. Are you doing this just for me? Don't force yourself, my dear. Even if I can't manage everything, your father is still around to help, even if…" His voice trailed off into a barely audible murmur, laden with a hint of sorrow.

Emma tightened her grip on his arm, her voice firm and unwavering. "No, Grandfather. I'm not forcing myself. I've realized that the Smith family business is something I genuinely care about. I want to dedicate myself to protecting you and everything you've built."

For a moment, James was silent, his gaze fixed on hers. Then, a soft sigh escaped him, and his lips curved into a faint, bittersweet smile. "It seems my little Emma has truly grown up. You've become so mature, so strong. Very well then—do what you feel is right. As long as I'm still here, I'll stand behind you and shield you however I can."

Emma nodded firmly, resolve shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Grandfather. I promise I'll protect you and ensure the Smith family's legacy remains untouchable."

James watched her, his heart swelling with a mix of pride and melancholy. The girl who once relied on him for everything now stood before him as a pillar of strength. Whatever path she chose, he knew he would always stand by her, unconditionally.