Chapter 117
Near the hotel where Cherise and her group were staying, there was a large traditional courtyard house.
It seemed more like an ancient palace than just a simple courtyard house.
The architectural features were both classic and luxurious.
Through the front yard and the main hall, there was a large open courtyard.
At the north of the courtyard stood a giant stone screen facing south.
On the stone screen, there was a delicately carved ancient royal pattern.
In contrast to the dark night, the pattern looked mysterious and solemn.
This estate was the residence of the Muller family, the leading family in Hamolica.
At the main entrance, a handsome young man with a reserved demeanor entered.
Seeing him, the servant of the Muller family came forward to greet Jason, “Mr. Muller, welcome back.” “Well, take me to see Grandpa,” Jason said.
The servant said, “Yes, Mr. Rayburn Muller is in the back courtyard. Please, Mr. Muller, this way!” Then he led Jason into the back courtyard.
They walked through a beautifully carved, ancient-style corridor and arrived at the back courtyard.
In stark contrast to the mysterious and solemn atmosphere of the front yard, the back courtyard was brightly illuminated, featuring a luxurious and modern classic style of decoration.
An elderly man, clad in a suit, sat in the center of the living room on a wooden sofa, brewing coffee.
Steam gently rose from the small, delicate coffee set, filling the room with the rich aroma of coffee. The servant led Jason inside and announced, “Mr. Rayburn Muller, Mr. Muller has returned.”
“Good evening, Grandpa,” Jason greeted Rayburn with respect.
Rayburn looked up at Jason and said, “Jason, you’re back. Have a seat and give this new coffee a try.”
Rayburn was Jason’s grandfather, the head of the Muller family.
Despite being 79 years old, Rayburn’s hair remained thick and dark, giving him a much younger appearance. Jason nodded and sat down.
He picked up a cup of coffee, blew gently over the surface, and enjoyed it.
“How is it?” Rayburn asked eagerly.
“Well, it’s excellent! Rich, smooth, and with a lasting aroma-this is truly fine coffee,” Jason responded earnestly.
Rayburn was overjoyed, laughed wholeheartedly, and remarked “Jason, you’re a coffee connoisseur. This is crafted from the finest coffee beans, a treat I don’t offer just anyone.”
Jason chuckled and said, “Grandpa, you’re just teasing me.”
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Rayburn waved it off and said, “I’m getting on in years. Eventually, you’ll have to take on the family responsibilities.
“I wouldn’t trust anyone else with it.”
Jason replied, “Grandpa, there you go worrying about the wrong things again.”
Rayburn shook his head and said, “No, it’s not about bad things, it’s destiny. Everyone has their own fate. I can’t foresee mine, but I know my lifespan all too well!” Hearing this, Jason looked down in silence.
Rayburn sighed and went on, “My greatest regret is related to your grandmother. If it weren’t for those fated obstacles, she wouldn’t have left me so effortlessly.
“Oh, blame it on me being young and powerless, deceived by scheming people. I couldn’t protect your grandma, or her…
“Anyway, I was just so useless!”
After saying so, Rayburn felt like crying.
Jason suddenly asked, “Grandpa, is it possible Grandma isn’t actually gone?”
Rayburn shook his head once more and stated, “After my release from the restrictions imposed by my family, I spent two years searching for her all over the country. I hired countless investigators, but none of them could locate her. “Later, I even tried Astrology, and there was nothing, not a trace of her.
“Alas, maybe it’s just how things are meant to be.”
Each time Jason witnessed Rayburn’s longing for his wife, a profound sorrow would well up within him.
*****
Before heading back to the hotel, Jason passed by Rayburn’s study and went inside.
There were several large bookshelves in the study, filled with an array of classic books.
On the antique desk in the study, besides the pens, ink, and paper, there was also a gold-edged picture frame.
The frame had chipped paint peeling off around the edges, revealing its great age.
It was evident that the person in the frame was dearly missed by someone.
Jason gently picked up the frame, his fingers carefully wiping away the last bit of dust on it.
The photo showed a woman with a bright, radiant smile, and her dimples were incredibly charming.
He smiled and murmured, “Could it be you? What was your connection to my grandma?”