Chapter 87 He Stays if She Stays

Sam met William's glare from across the room, easily reading his intent. Instead of yielding, the former remained calm and detached. "Since you're fine, we'll be going now." The words had barely fallen when William growled through gritted teeth, "Sam, are you really going to go against me for that woman?" "You've misunderstood me, Grandpa," Sam replied evenly. "I just don't want to ruin your appetite." His tone was calm, but the defiance in it was unmistakable. If Madison stayed, so would he. William sensed that too. His temples throbbed, and the breath he had finally regained turned ragged again. Before things could escalate, Simon hurried to intervene, remembering why they had gathered in the first place. "Dad, it's just one more person at the table. "There's no need to get worked up over that. Didn't you say you've been wanting Sam to stay over for a meal anyway?" William shot him a sidelong look, surprised Simon would suddenly speak for Sam. Still, the reminder hit its mar