Sean’s sharp gaze cut through her intentions effortlessly. He took a slow sip of coffee before asking quietly, “And what reckless behavior are you referring to?”

Candice answered with conviction. “He brought a college student aboard a naval vessel and insisted that this girl had the ability to improve Ronan’s medical machinery. Isn’t that completely unreasonable?”

Sean nodded thoughtfully. “It certainly sounds far-fetched. So tell me, how exactly do you intend to help my grandson out of this situation?”

Candice’s eyes lit up with hope. “You know, my father always wanted our families to unite through marriage. If I become Brad’s girlfriend, maybe he’ll reconsider.”

Sean simply shook his head. “No, I can’t support that idea. I’ve watched you grow up, and you and Brad are not a good match. You wouldn’t be able to put up with his attitude.”

A cold look flashed in Candice’s eyes. “If that’s the case, then I’ll have to let the soldiers take the equipment by force. Brad could end up demoted or even forced into early retirement.”

Sean’s calm never wavered. “Brad has never once regretted his choices, and I’m too old to try to rein him in now. He can make his own decisions.” As for Rylie, Sean had no plans to interfere with her life either, since she meant everything to Brad.

Candice’s tone became firm. “If that’s how it is, please send someone to guide me. I’ll go get the equipment myself.”

Rylie rarely left the research lab except to help Melany with her studies or to catch a few hours of sleep.

That’s why, when Sean brought Candice and her group to the lab’s entrance, they found it quiet inside.

Candice reached for the handle, expecting to walk right in, but the door wouldn’t budge. It had a fingerprint lock. She signaled to the butler, hoping he could open it for her. The butler glanced quickly at Sean before shaking his head firmly. “I am not allowed to open that door. Only Mr. Brad Morgan and Rylie have permission to enter. The lock is set to their fingerprints. Besides, the door is built to be soundproof and bulletproof. Ordinary methods won’t open it,” he said, keeping his tone respectful.

Irritation crossed Candice’s face. “Don’t make me turn this into something awkward for everyone.”

Sean’s earlier politeness faded as he turned to face them. There was a sharp edge in his stare, a piercing look that made it hard to meet his gaze.

Even at his age, he stood tall and unwavering, his presence speaking of battles survived and victories earned.

He fixed his eyes on Candice. “Candice.” The words came out evenly, cold, each syllable spreading a chill through the hallway. “Didn’t your father ever teach you how to respect someone else’s rules?”

Candice instinctively backed away, only to find the cold wall already at her back. A memory surfaced unexpectedly — her father had once told her that, back in the day, people used to call Sean “The Endbringer.”

“Mr. Morgan, I’m only doing what I’ve been assigned. This is my duty,” Candice said, her voice trembling as fear tightened her throat.

Sean let out a harsh laugh, sudden and unsettling. “Duty, is it?” he said, his laughter rattling the soldiers standing nearby. “Your father could barely aim a rifle when he followed me in the service. And now he’s grown bold enough to hand out orders?” His tone darkened. “This is the Morgan home. My patience has limits. I told you to wait, and I meant it. If you refuse, then get out. Do you think I’d back down from you?”

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