The next moment, Gavin whacked Hamilton with his cane and scolded, "You rascal! How dare you snoop on Andrew? Do you have a death wish? If you do, I can beat you to death now and save you the trouble!"
The impact left a bump on Hamilton's forehead, which left him upset. However, upon seeing Gavin's fury, he shrank back.
"Why did you hit me out of the blue, Dad? I'm looking out for Doria. It's not as serious as you think!"
With a grim expression, Gavin snorted and said, "Not serious, huh? Don't ever underestimate Andrew. You're lucky that you didn't find anything. Even I couldn't protect you from the consequences! All you need to know is that the marriage is a big win for us. Keep your nose clean and stay out of this!"
Gavin's voice radiated a chilling authority. It was clear he wasn't messing around.
Upon hearing the stern warning, Hamilton's expression changed.
Kenneth Thompson, Hamilton's younger brother and Doria's father, hadn't been home for years. He was probably on a secret mission somewhere due to his special role. Hamilton suspected Kenneth had risen to at least the rank of commander by now.
Based on Gavin's reaction, Andrew seemed to hold a higher position than that. Suddenly, a realization dawned on Hamilton. "Dad, is Andrew related to the Josonian—"
"Now that you know, make sure this doesn't get out."
Gavin's attitude confirmed Hamilton's suspicion. Hamilton gasped as he realized the marriage was out of their family's league.
Susan, though confused, held back her questions. She trusted Gavin's judgment and believed his decision was in their best interest.
Doria, her arm looped through Andrew's, entered the room with a bright, "I'm back, Grandpa, Uncle Hamilton."
"Mom! You're here too!" Spotting Susan, Doria darted straight to her.
"Of course, I have to be here." Susan dotingly looked at Doria before shifting her gaze to Andrew. "You must be Andrew."
Andrew appeared reserved, mostly because he was putting on an act. In fact, he was nervous about being caught, knowing it would not only upset the Thompson family but also put Lucas in a difficult position.
"Mr. Thompson Senior, Mrs. Thompson, and Mr. Thompson." After greeting everyone present, Andrew put the gifts down.
"You're part of the family now, so don't be so formal. Come sit next to me, Andy. Have you sorted out the marriage certificate? Let me have a look."
Gavin eagerly grabbed the marriage certificate Doria handed over and was delighted.
"Brilliant. Once I'm out of this place, I'll take care of your wedding myself. Make it snappy, and give me a cute great-grandchild soon! I'll die happy with that."
"Grandpa!" Doria shyly called out, her face turning red.
It was a wonderful dinner. Still, Andrew felt slightly out of place.
Susan appeared genuinely pleased with him, her eyes warm and welcoming. However, Andrew couldn't help but be surprised by the drastic change in Hamilton's attitude toward him. Hamilton was strangely friendly.
Dinner ended at 9:30 pm. Gavin instructed Doria to take Andrew home so they could spend time together.
Unexpectedly, the car got stuck in traffic two streets away from Starlight Grove.
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