Godly Investor: A Hundred Trillion Dollars For Investment And Donations-Chapter 248 -

At that moment The tension among the York family rippled like a taut wire ready to snap.

Immediately Serenity’s uncle leaned forward, his tone sharp as he addressed the group, "So, we all thought Ethan was the one behind solving our financial issues, didn’t we? If it weren’t for that assumption, would he even be here right now? Well, thank goodness Mr. Brown stepped in to tell us the truth."

At that moment Several family members nodded in agreement, murmuring their support. "Exactly," one of the aunts added, folding her arms. "It’s important to give credit where it’s due. We’ve been misled."

The air grew heavy with their accusations.

However Ethan remained composed, his expression unreadable, though his sharp gaze flicked momentarily to Mr. Brown, who sat basking in the attention, his smile smug.

Before the discussion could escalate further, Old Master York slammed his hand lightly on the armrest of his chair. The sound wasn’t loud, but it commanded attention.

Immediately the room fell silent as his piercing eyes surveyed the family members.

"That is enough," Old Master York said firmly, his voice carrying the weight of authority.

"We invited Ethan here because he saved my son’s life, not because of any financial matters. His presence is not a debt to be repaid but a gratitude to be shown."

The old man’s words hung in the air, silencing the murmurs and causing a few family members to exchange sheepish glances.

However Mr. Brown, who had been riding the wave of praise, suddenly seemed smaller in his chair.

"And let’s not forget," Serenity father added, his gaze narrowing, "Ethan never claimed he was the one who solved the financial issues. Not once. This narrative is something you all created." He paused and turned his sharp eyes toward Serenity, who straightened in her seat under his scrutiny.

"Serenity," he said with a tone that was both stern and questioning, "wasn’t it you who informed me about what happened?"

Hearing her father words.

Serenity swallowed hard, her usually confident demeanor faltering. She glanced at Ethan, who remained calm, then nodded. "Yes, father," she admitted softly.

The awkward silence following Old Master York’s words lingered heavily.

The family exchanged uneasy glances, unsure of how to proceed. Sensing the tension, the old master straightened his posture, his voice cutting through the unease like a sharp blade.

"Enough of this. We’ve wasted enough time bickering over nonsense. Let’s forget about that happened and have a proper meal. This is not the place for such trivialities."

At that moment the family nodded in agreement, their earlier chatter and laughter subdued.

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However old Master york, decided to upgrade their room, he wasn’t expecting Mr.Brown to come.

They filed into the upscale restaurant, the sound of polished shoes tapping against the marble floor echoing faintly. The maître d’ greeted them with practiced courtesy, leading them to a private room reserved under the York family name. The space was opulent, adorned with elegant chandeliers and intricately carved wooden furniture, offering an air of exclusivity.

Ethan, however, lingered behind at the entrance. His hands rested casually in his pockets, but his eyes carried a flicker of frustration. Serenity noticed his hesitation and stepped away from the group to join him. Her heels clicked softly against the floor as she approached, her expression a mix of concern.

"You’re not coming in?" she asked gently, tilting her head to meet his gaze.

However Ethan exhaled sharply, shaking his head.

"I don’t think I should. Your family invited me out of gratitude for helping your father, but let’s be honest—most of them don’t want me here. It’s written all over their faces."

Hearing what Ethan just said Serenity frowned, guilt flickering in her eyes. "Ethan, I know they’ve been… difficult, but my grandfather and dad genuinely wants you here. He went out of his way to prepare something special for you. If you leave now, it’ll hurt him, and he’s been through enough already."

At that moment Ethan’s jaw tightened, his gaze briefly falling to the ground as he weighed her words.

"Serenity," he said after a moment, his tone softer, "I’m not here to cause tension or ruin anyone’s evening. But your family has made it clear that I don’t belong."

Immediately she stepped closer, her voice low but insistent. "I understand how you feel, but this isn’t about them. It’s about my father. He’s the reason I asked you to come, and he’s the one who wants to thank you properly. Please, Ethan, don’t let their behavior stop you from accepting his gratitude."

Ethan studied her for a long moment, his thoughts unreadable. Finally, he gave a reluctant nod. "Alright. For him, not them."

At that moment a small smile of relief broke across Serenity’s face. "Thank you. You won’t regret it."

As Ethan stepped into the upgraded room with the York family, he was keenly aware of the eyes on him. The polished interiors gleamed under the soft glow of chandeliers, and the muted hum of wealthy diners filled the air.

As they approached the front desk, the receptionist’s face lit up upon spotting Ethan. Her posture stiffened, and she instinctively began to offer a respectful bow, but Ethan caught her gaze and gave her a subtle shake of his head.

The message on his gaze was clear: "not now."

She quickly composed herself, masking her recognition, and resumed her professional demeanor as she guided them toward the private dining section.

The York family walked ahead, seemingly oblivious to the silent exchange. Ethan followed behind, his hands casually tucked into his pockets, his sharp eyes scanning the restaurant’s layout. He wasn’t here to make a scene—not yet, at least.

Once inside, the York family requested a private box.

The maître d’ led them to an exclusive room, adorned with dark oak panels, plush chairs, and an ornate dining table that could easily accommodate ten. The atmosphere screamed exclusivity, with soundproof walls ensuring absolute privacy.

Immediately Serenity’s father and uncles exchanged approving nods, clearly accustomed to such grandeur.

As they settled into their seats, menus were handed out, and polite chatter filled the room. Serenity, sitting opposite Ethan, offered him an encouraging smile. Ethan, however, remained quiet, scanning the menu with disinterest.

He wasn’t here for the food.

The conversation turned to Mr. Brown as Serenity’s uncle asked, "So, Mr. Brown, what will you have? This restaurant boasts an exquisite selection."

However Mr. Brown, basking in the attention, leaned back in his chair with a smug grin.

"Ah, let’s see… perhaps a bottle of their finest wine to start. And maybe—"

Before he could finish, the door swung open, the polished hinges creaking ever so slightly.

Immediately all heads turned as the manager entered, flanked by two waitresses.

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