Chapter 171 The Uncertain Outcome
Ethan played chess with Mr. Grant while Bennit was tasked with transporting Ethan. Despite his reluctance, Bennit had no choice but to comply.
He knew that failing to do so could lead to repercussions from his own master and tarnish his reputation in Mr. Grant's eyes.
Observing Bennit's stern demeanor, Ethan suppressed a laugh, mindful of the consequences.
Additionally, Mr. Grant had Bennit attend to their needs, granting Ethan a taste of being served by a military officer.
"Young man, your chess skills defy your age. Have you honed them by playing with seasoned players?" Mr. Grant inquired after noticing Ethan's cautious and traditional playing style.
Ethan's defensive moves lacked the boldness expected of someone his age.
"Not really. I didn't play much before. I learned these strategies from my father, who enjoyed playing chess with me," Ethan replied with a hint of nostalgia, recalling the fond memories of playing chess with his father.
Mr. Grant's eyes held a glint of realization as he spoke, "Yesterday, my staff forwarded me your personal information. I reviewed everything from your birth to the present, including your family background. I'm not one to pry, but since it was passed on to me, I took a quick look. Young man, you're even more intriguing than I had imagined!"
Ethan smiled understandingly at Mr. Grant's candid words, feeling at ease. The shift from addressing him by name to "little guy" added a sense of closeness that brought him joy. "I appreciate your care, Mr. Grant," Ethan replied warmly.
However, Mr. Grant swiftly changed the topic, stating, "Although you saved my life, there are certain matters I cannot involve myself in. I hope you understand." Ethan nodded in acknowledgment, expressing his intention to assist Mr. Grant without expecting any rewards.
"Saving you was a gesture of respect from a young citizen to a respected leader," Ethan remarked casually, returning his focus to their ongoing game of chess.
One person took things for granted, while the other didn't seem to take them seriously. Since then, they avoided discussing anything related to treating illnesses or rewards. Bennet, on the sidelines, observed Ethan, curious about his thoughts. The chess game quickly progressed to the midpoint.
Mr. Grant captured Ethan's horse and car, while Ethan eliminated Mr. Grant's cannon and car, creating a balanced situation.
However, Mr. Grant's aggressive attacks posed a continuous threat of checkmate. Ethan remained on the defensive, displaying no sense of urgency.
Just as in his approach to treating illnesses earlier, he played chess with the same carefree attitude.
Bennet felt slightly irritated by Ethan's nonchalant attitude, while Mr. Grant's eyes held a hint of admiration. "Young man, you're good at chess. Looks like I'm going to lose," Mr. Grant remarked, surprising Bennet.
"But Mr. Grant, you have the upper hand. You've captured one of Ethan's horses and both cannons. How can you be losing?"
Bennet inquired, peering at the chessboard. Ethan licked his lips, glanced at Bennet, then gulped down the tea before declaring, "Thanks for the tea, Bennet. It seems your tea brings me luck!" With a smile, Ethan stood up and announced to Mr. Grant, "The game is over, so I'll be on my way."
Bennet was puzzled as the game was unfinished. He could only hope Ethan would leave soon. "Until the day after tomorrow!" Mr. Grant bid farewell with a smile, observing Ethan and Bennet depart before making the final move, declaring checkmate. Ethan showed no aggression, choosing to graciously concede to Mr. Grant.
"You're a talented young man. I hope you won't give an old man like me trouble," Mr. Grant remarked, stroking his beard and smiling wistfully. In the car, Bennet couldn't resist asking Ethan about the game with Mr. Grant.
"It was nothing. I simply surrendered. Losing to Mr. Grant is nothing to be ashamed of," Ethan explained.
Ethan clearly had no intention of explaining.
"I don't care if you don't say anything!"
Bennit glared at Ethan irritably and then started the car. It was unbelievable that an experienced general like him lost to a boy. If this news reached his colleagues' ears, they would probably laugh at him.
Ethan seemed to enjoy seeing Bennit frustrated. He found it amusing to see the older man throwing a tantrum like a child.
Until they returned to Remington's home, the two didn't say a word. Bennit was clearly still unhappy!
Ethan returned unharmed, immediately relieving Sarah who had been worried about him. However, what surprised Ethan was that Remington was actually playing chess with Sarah.
But Remington playing chess with Sarah was probably just for amusement. At first, she didn't even know the rules of chess! It was purely to pass the time.
"I'm glad you didn't faint today, otherwise, I wouldn't dare let you go next time!"
Sarah said happily.
"I said I wouldn't today, and I also played a game of chess with Mr. Grant before coming back!"
Ethan nodded with a wry smile.
"Who won?"
Upon hearing this, Remington asked directly.
"It's hard to say!"
Ethan replied ambiguously.
"The game wasn't even finished, but this kid voluntarily admitted defeat. How could he possibly have beaten Mr. Grant?" Bennit hummed disapprovingly.
"I didn't ask you. Aren't you busy? Go. Let Ethan and Sarah accompany me!" Remington glanced at Bennit, clearly unhappy with his sudden interruption.
Bennit glared at Ethan and angrily left.
"Ethan, come play with me. I won't even ask if you win or lose, just show me a voluntary surrender!" Remington directed his words towards Ethan with a clear intention.
"Alright." Ethan forced a smile and nodded. He hadn't expected to play another game with Remington, but if the old man was in the mood.
Upon hearing this, Sarah quickly vacated her seat, behaving like a dutiful daughter-in-law, quietly serving tea.
Soon, the game ended. Similar to the match with Mr. Grant earlier, Ethan picked up the tea that Sarah poured for him and finished it, then stood up.
"You haven't finished the game yet, where are you going?" Sarah asked in surprise, unlike Mr. Grant, who frowned and locked his eyes on the chessboard.
"Your reaction was similar to Bennit's at the time. Let's just say I surrendered!" Ethan grinned and winked at Sarah.
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