348: PATH TO REDEMPTION LUKE’S POV As I approached my grandfather, his stern expression sent a shiver down my spine. I couldn’t help but wonder what I had done to incur his wrath this time. Had he learned about my reckless behavior earlier? “Luke,” he said in a low voice, his tone laced with disappointment. “We need to talk.” My heart sank as I followed him into the mansion, my mind racing with the possibilities of what he could know. Did he find out about the incident with the woman on the road? Or perhaps he had discovered my recent escapades at the nightclub? As we entered his study, my grandfather fixed me with a penetrating gaze that made me squirm under his scrutiny. “I received a call today,” he began, his voice steady but filled with reproach. “About your behavior at the charity event last night.” My stomach dropped as the pieces fell into place. So he hadn’t found out about the -Itercation on the road, but my actions at the charity event had still managed to reach his ears. “I… I can explain,” I stammered, my mind scrambling to come up with a plausible excuse for my bel.avior. But my grandfather held up a hand, cutting me off. “I don’t want excuses, Luke. I want you to understand the gravity of your actions. You embarrassed both yourself and our family with your reckless behavior.” His words struck a nerve, and I felt a pang of guilt wash over me. I had let him down, just like I had let down Daniel and countless others with my impulsive actions. “I’m sorry, grandfather,” I said, the words heavy with sincerity. “I didn’t mean to cause any harm. I just… lost control.” My grandfather sighed, his expression softening slightly. “I know you’re young and prone to making mistakes, Luke. But you must learn to temper your impulses and act with more responsibility. Our family’s reputation is at stake.” I nodded, chastened by his words. “I understand, grandfather. I’ll do better, I promise.” He gave me a nod of approval, his eyes lingering on mine for a moment longer before he spoke again. “Good. Now, I expect you to make amends for your behavior and represent our family with dignity and grace in the future.” 348: PATH TO REDEMPTION 2/4 Just when I was about to walk away, my grandfather told me to hold on. “Right. I still heard some disgusting news about you.” I turned to him. “What news?” “Your dance with the stripper at the nightclub.” My heart sank as my grandfather mentioned the dance at the nightclub. I knew I was in deep trouble now. “Grandpa, it’s not what you think,” I began, my voice trembling slightly. “I was just having some fun with my friends. It wasn’t anything serious.” But my grandfather’s expression hardened, and his eyes bore into mine with a fierce intensity. “Luke, do you have any idea how damaging this could be to our family’s reputation? You were representing us, and your behavior reflects poorly on all of us.” I swallowed hard, feeling a knot form in my stomach. I hadn’t considered the consequences of my actions, too caught up in the moment to think about the implications for my family. “‘m sorry, grandpa,” I said, my voice barely above a whisper. “I didn’t mean to bring shame upon our name. It was a mistake, and I take full responsibility for it.” His gaze stern gaze softened slightly, but his disappointment was still palpable. “I hope you understand the seriousness of this, Luke. You are a member of the prominent Reynolds, and your actions carry weight. You must conduct yourself with dignity and respect at all times.” “I understand, grandfather,” I replied, my voice tinged with remorse. “I will do everything in my power to make amends and restore our family’s honor.” He nodded, his expression grave. “Good. This will not be taken lightly, Luke. You have a lot. of work to do to earn back the trust and respect of those around you.” My grandfather’s words hung heavy in the air, and I couldn’t shake the feeling of disappointment that radiated from him. But before I could say anything else, he continued with a more stern tone. “Luke, it’s time you start focusing more on the family business and less on these frivolous distractions,” he said, his voice firm. “You have a responsibility to uphold the legacy of our family, and that means prioritizing your duties over indulging in reckless behavior.” I nodded solemnly, understanding the weight of his words. “I understand, grandpa. I will dedicate myself to the business and ensure that I honor our family’s legacy.” He gave me a nod of approval, but his expression remained serious. “Good. Remember, your 349 PATH TO REDEMPTION 374 actions reflect not only on yourself but also on our entire family. It’s time to start acting like the man I know you can be.” “Yes, grandpa,” 1 spoke softly, taking my gare downward. My grandfather walked closer and placed his hand on my shoulder. “Luke, I only want what’s best for you. I trust you, your hardwork all these years was really remarkable. But you have to put more effort, and forget about women at the moment. They’re just distractions.” I nodded, feeling the weight of his hand on my shoulder. “I understand, grandfather. I’ll focus on the business and put aside distractions. His grip tightened slightly, a silent reminder of the seriousness of his words. “I have high expectations for you, Luke. You have the potential to accomplish great things, but you must stay focused and disciplined.” “I won’t let you down, grandpa,” I promised, meeting his gaze. He looked at me back with a nod, a hint of pride shining in his eyes. “I know you won’t. Now, let’s work together to ensure the success and prosperity of our family’s legacy.” ake,” my grandfather continued, his tone shifting to one of business–like determination. “We have a huge project tomorrow, and I need you to be fully prepared to take charge.” My eyebrows furrowed in surprise. “A project? What kind of project, grandfather?” “It’s a major expansion initiative for our company. We’ll be acquiring a new branch, and I want you to oversee the entire process.” My heart raced at the magnitude of the responsibility placed on my shoulders. “Me? But… I’ve never led a project of this scale before.” My grandfather nodded, his expression unwavering. “I have full confidence in your abilities, Luke. You’ve been groomed for this moment, and I believe you’re ready to rise to the occasion.” I took a deep breath, trying to quell the nervous fluttering in my stomach. “I won’t let you down, grandfather. I’ll do whatever it takes to ensure the success of this project.” He gave me a reassuring smile, his hand squeezing my shoulder in a gesture of support. “I know you will, Luke. Just remember to stay focused, delegate tasks effectively, and lead with confidence. You have the intelligence and determination to make this project a resounding success. “Thank you.” I smiled at him before walking away. On my way upstairs, my phone began to ring, and Brenda was the one calling. She was the
