Claimed by the Crown Heir novel Chapter 38

Just as Arthur was deep in thought, Barrett, the head butler, stepped quietly into the room and bowed in report.

"Sir, the Grants have arrived."

Arthur raised his gaze, suddenly recalling that George had contacted him two days prior, claiming he was bringing his returning eldest daughter to apologize in person.

He hadn't planned on entertaining them, but George had mentioned that the girl had spent her entire savings on a genuine Renaissance painting for him.

It was solely because of that detail that he made an exception to see them.

After all, he was a massive fanatic of Renaissance masters, always hunting down their rarest works.

"Bring them to the drawing room," Arthur ordered, setting his teacup down with a thud.

Alistair's eyes narrowed slightly, a nearly imperceptible glint flashing in his depths as everything clicked.

So the reason Vanessa had outbid him for that painting was to gift it to his grandfather.

"It's been three years, and they suddenly show up to apologize now. I doubt this father-daughter duo has simple intentions," Arthur murmured, rubbing a stray drop of tea off his fingers, his tone lowering.

He glanced up at Alistair, entirely casual. "Do you want to come meet them? She is the woman you personally chose, after all."

"No."

Alistair masked every trace of emotion in his eyes. He picked up the teapot with elegant, steady fingers and slowly refilled his cup. The hot liquid hit the porcelain, sending soft ripples through the amber tea. His movements were incredibly slow and composed, completely unbothered.

"Fair enough. I suppose the connection was just too shallow," Arthur sighed, before carefully shifting his tone to test the waters. "I've recently looked into a few other heiresses for you. Their backgrounds and looks are absolutely top-tier, certainly not worse than the Grant girl. You should make some time to meet them."

"Do you honestly think I'm the kind of superficial man who is easily swayed by a pretty face?" Alistair looked up, shooting him a cool, detached glance.

Arthur chuckled, standing up and patting his shoulder.

"Everyone appreciates beauty. No matter how successful you are, you're still flesh and blood. It's completely normal to have preferences. Don't worry, your grandfather won't judge you for it."

The moment Arthur saw the artist's signature inside the box, a sharp gleam sparked in his cloudy eyes, his fingers freezing mid-air. This was the exact painting he had asked Alistair to bid on at the Summit Auction House days ago. How on earth did it end up in this girl's hands?

Had Alistair deliberately let her win?

As he pondered this, Vanessa spoke up in a gentle tone.

"I've always heard that you have a profound appreciation for Renaissance art. I was fortunate enough to acquire *The Jealous Petals*, and I sincerely hope it brings you joy."

She lowered her gaze slightly, her lips pressed together in a subtle line of remorse.

"I am here today to formally apologize for what happened three years ago. When I was suddenly told about the marriage arrangement, I was young and terrified. I panicked and ran away in the middle of the night... Not only did I show a complete lack of manners, but I also disrespected your kindness. For all my offenses, I beg your forgiveness, Grandpa Howard. Please be the bigger person."

She bowed slightly, her posture impeccably respectful.

When she looked up again, her tone was significantly more solemn. "I hope you will give me one more chance to proceed with this marriage arrangement."