“Ouch!” Evan and Vivian winced at the unexpected slap that caught them off guard. They held their burning cheeks, confused by the sudden turn of events. They couldn’t understand Christopher’s actions, especially since Dustin was the troublemaker.
The Murray family and their guests were also baffled. No one had expected Christopher to slap someone out of anger on his special day.
“General … General Murray.” Evan tried to argue. “Did you confuse us with someone else? This punk is causing trouble and should be dealt with.”
Vivian added, “Yes, General Murray, he even assaulted Mr. Murray last night. He committed a crime and should be punished.”
She believed that Christopher might not know the truth. “Quiet!” Christopher glowered at them. His authoritative voice filled the room.
He continued, “Dustin saved my granddaughter’s life. He’s the savior of the Murray family and my most esteemed guest. Any more of this nonsense, and I’ll have you removed!” Anxiety set in as Evan and Vivian fell silent.
They knew the grave consequences of being kicked out of the Murray residence. It wasn’t just about the damage to their family’s reputation but also about being shunned by others. No one would risk upsetting the Murrays by associating with Evans and Vivian’s family.
“Grandpa-”
Sheila was about to interject, but Edgar interrupted her. “Dad, it’s your birthday. Don’t get upset over the little things. Please, calm down.”
Edgar forbade Sheila from speaking any further. He knew explaining the truth to Christopher wouldn’t do any good. Christopher’s earlier statement had set the tone, and they had to stick to it. Therefore, his authority was unquestioned in front of the many guests.
Christopher shot a stern glance at Evan and Vivian and then turned to Dustin. In a commanding tone, he said, “Come with me, kid. Let’s sit at the main table and see who dares to disagree again.”
He led Dustin to the VIP table, where members of the Murray family and their close friends were seated. The casually dressed Dustin seemed out of place among them.
Everyone fell silent, for no one dared to go against Christopher. Therefore, they all smiled at Dustin and greeted him politely.
“Shameless punk. He’s taking advantage of his role as Sheila’s savior to gain sympathy from General Murray. How despicable,” Vivian muttered angrily, gritting her teeth.
She was a member of a distinguished family, but she wasn’t even qualified to sit at the VIP table. It made her wonder why a lowly insurance agent was given this privilege.
“Hmph! This is just a temporary moment of glory. Once General Murray learns the truth, Dustin will suffer the consequences!” Evan explained.
He touched his sore cheek, anger flaring in his eyes. He couldn’t take his frustration on Christopher, so he directed it at Dustin instead.
“One of these days I’m going to get even with you,” Edgar muttered with a frown. He had believed that Evan and Vivian would be able to handle Dustin. But Christopher’s intervention had spoiled his plans. Although he was unhappy, he couldn’t show it.
After the incident, the atmosphere gradually returned to normal. More guests came and brought gifts to celebrate Christopher’s birthday.
