Page 94 of Bought By the Ruthless Pakhan

I parkedacross from Alex's school.

Engine running, I lit a cigarette and leaned back, eyes fixed on the exit. Smoke drifted up slowly, blurring the windshield.

Ten minutes until dismissal. I wasn't in a rush. I'd been waiting for this moment for five years.

But soon my attention got pulled to a suspicious figure lurking by the gate.

The man was hunched over, wearing that passable suit, cloudy eyes constantly darting toward the entrance. Like an old fox waiting for prey.

I narrowed my eyes. Recognized him.

Gary Bennett.

What the hell was he doing here again?

Last time he showed up at my place, I had Dmitri investigate him. Had someone teach him a lesson too. But oddly, the report came back clean.

Still, I knew better. Scum like him never appeared without a reason.

He had an agenda.

I watched his sleazy movements, only feeling regret. I should've dealt with this rabid dog sooner.

The bell rang right on time. Kids poured out in clusters, chattering like little sparrows.

I spotted Alex quickly.

Small backpack, bouncing along, waving goodbye to his classmates. Sunshine all over his little face.

This kid—just like his mother. Beautiful as an angel.

Gary perked up immediately. Straightened his clothes, plastered on a smile, and moved in.

I raised an eyebrow but didn't rush over. I wanted to see what game the old bastard was playing.

"You're... Alex, right?"

Even across the street, I could read his lips.

"I'm Gary. I'm your grandfather. Your mother's father."

Alex was smart. He didn't let the family connection make him drop his guard. Instead, he asked carefully, "Grandfather? Mom's never mentioned you."

I smiled.

Smart kid. Just like his mother.

Gary hadn't expected that response. He quickly forced another smile. "Your mom's just been busy, forgot to mention me. I've been working away all these years, just got back today. Come on, let Grandpa take you for ice cream. Buy you new toys."

He reached out to grab Alex's wrist, those rough fingers about to touch my son.

I crushed out my cigarette and got out of the car.

"Gary."

I called his name once.

Gary froze like he'd been struck by lightning. His whole body trembled as he turned to look at me.