Saoirse’s POV

  The night had been perfect.

  Cian’s victory, the cheers, the celebration—everything felt lighthearted and fun.

  Until Grandpa started asking about my future.

  He leaned back in his chair, swirling his whiskey gss as his sharp gaze nded on me.

  “So, Saoirse,” he began. “Now that school is nearly over, have you given any thought to your degree?”

  I already knew where this was going.

  “Yes, Grandpa.” I nodded confidently. “I want to study Computer Engineering.”

  Silence.

  Grandpa’s expression remained unreadable.

  “Computer Engineering?” he repeated slowly, as if testing the words.

  I held my ground. “Yes. I want to develop GaelCorp’s R&D and technology side.”

  His lips pressed into a thin line.

  “GaelCorp is a finance and real estate empire,” he said firmly. “You should study business or finance. That’s where your future is.”

  I knew he wouldn’t approve.

  “We have other divisions too,” I countered. “Look at what Mom has built—fashion, clothing, jewelry. I want to do the same, but with technology.”

  Grandpa sighed, his disappointment clear.

  “Technology is unpredictable, Saoirse. It’s not the foundation of our empire.”

  “Not yet,” I said boldly.

  He studied me for a long moment, then finally exhaled.

  “Do whatever you want.” His voice was heavy with reluctant acceptance.

  I felt Fiona’s hand squeeze mine under the table. She had my back.

  But then, Grandpa turned to Cian.

  He pced a firm hand on his shoulder and said, “Everything is up to you now, boy. Don’t disappoint us.”

  Cian didn’t flinch.

  He simply nodded. “I won’t.”

  And just like that, the weight of expectation fell on him.

  After all that talk, we finally finished eating.

  As soon as we were done, I exchanged a look with Cian.

  “We’re going out,” I announced. “The team is throwing a party.”

  Cian stretched, his usual smirk appearing. “Yeah, we can’t miss it.”

  Mom raised an eyebrow but didn’t stop us. “Don’t get into trouble.”

  “No promises,” I teased, grabbing my coat.

  Cian chuckled, shoving his hands in his pockets as we walked out.

  Tonight, the real celebration was just beginning.