His jaw worked for a slow moment before he finally said, "I knew your grandfather."
The shift in tone was so unexpected that Winn blinked.
Sam continued, "Stubborn old ox… he was. Hard-headed, walked around as though the sun rose every morning just to shine on his head."
A huff of reluctant amusement left Winn.
"You carry yourself just like he did," Sam added. "Same spine. Same ridiculous devotion."
He stepped closer. "You seem capable. Responsible. But hear me well—if my granddaughter asks for protection from you… I will give it to her."
His eyes sharpened into steel. "Are we clear?"
"Yes, sir," Winn said immediately.
Sam nodded once.
"I'll have a cup of coffee," he said as he started walking in, "and get her a change of clothes from the driver out there."
He waved his cane toward the door. "I'll wait until she is ready."
He strolled into the mansion.
