Vanessa, silently efficient, approached the low table before the patriarch and gently placed the tray down.
Qin Wei, swallowing down the stale lump of resentment rising in his throat, lifted the teapot and carefully poured the steaming tea into the cup, setting it properly in its saucer before holding it out with both hands.
"Grandfather-in-law, please accept this tea."
The old man finally moved, lifting the cup with fingers that, though aged, still exuded an air of absolute control. He took a slow sip. Then, lowering the cup, he finally spoke.
"Since you've married into the House Griffin, you are now one of us," he said in a gravelly tone. "And thus, you will abide by our clan's customs and rules."
Qin Wei nodded slowly, lowering his gaze. "I understand."
But the old man wasn't finished. His eyes narrowed just slightly, and a subtle edge crept into his voice as he continued.
