“What do you think if your uncle took on the role of your dad?"

Kaleb suggested.

It wasn't because Kaleb was concerned about the stigma of Keilani having a child out of wedlock. He was looking for someone to fill Tyrone's space in Jennie's heart, and Lance seemed like the perfect candidate.

Jennie was taken aback and shook her head vigorously. “That can't be. My uncle is my uncle, and my dad is my dad. No one can take my dad's place in my heart."

"Please reconsider." Noting Jennie's resolve, Kaleb relented. "I will be leaving soon. I'd love for you to come to Philade with me. Your grandma adores you. And if you wish to return even after staying for a while with me in Philade, I'll send you back, alright?"

Jennie counted on her fingers and said, "I need to talk this over with my dad."

Kaleb tightened his lips and suggested, "Let's enjoy a meal first. Afterward, your uncle will take you home. I'm hoping you'll have a good answer for me by then."

"I'll do my best."

Kaleb fell silent, glancing at his secretary, who promptly presented the hotel's menu.

"What would you like to eat?" Kaleb asked Jennie with a warm tone.

Jennie perused the menu, choosing some dishes she liked. Once done, she handed the menu to Kaleb, saying, “Your turn, grandpa."

“Thank you, dear. You're so thoughtful."

Bringing such a bright and sweet granddaughter home would surely earn Kaleb envy rather than scorn. He found his granddaughter far more impressive than the grandsons of his peers.

Only after Kaleb had finished his order did he notice Lance lingered.

Lifting his gaze to Lance, his expression was uninterested. Kaleb tossed the menu to Lance and said sternly, "Choose something to eat. You can order for yourself."

Jennie shifted her gaze from Kaleb to Lance upon hearing this.

Lance, keeping his composure, shut the menu and replied, “I had my meal before coming here."

Kaleb didn't bother with Lance anymore. He turned to Jennie, asking softly, “Would you like to add anything else, Jennie?"

Jennie noticed the shift in Kaleb's demeanor and shivered slightly.

"No, thank you. Grandpa, we've ordered plenty. Uncle, are you sure you don't want to eat anything?"