How the Ice King Became my Doting Billionaire Husband
Chapter 457

Claude rarely let his guard down, but today was different. He and Orson found themselves in an unusual contest, each showing off the gifts they had received from Morwenna.

Orson marveled at the small trinkets, leaves, and even candies that Claude had collected, along with a stack of photographs neatly arranged in a beautiful album. In return, Claude admired Orson's slingshot and listened as he recounted tales of growing cabbage and raising fish. He even sampled a piece of malt candy from Orson's little box.

After a bout of envy, Claude felt a surprising sense of calm. For once, he didn't replace himself disliking this somewhat dim-witted companion. It was a rare moment where, in the company of someone other than Ms. Winslet, he didn't feel the urge to lash out.

The butler watched this heartwarming scene from a distance, feeling a sense of relief. It seemed the young master had finally made a friend outside of his usual circle.

However, their peace was short-lived as Phineas came storming in. At the sound of approaching footsteps, Orson was the first to dash outside.

Spotting Orson, Phineas barked angrily, "Orson, as a guard for the Hetfield family, how dare you stand in my way? You're betraying your own, now step aside!"

Orson, with his usual straightforwardness, replied, "You're not the one signing my paycheck, so why should I listen to you?"

Phineas growled, "Have you thought about the consequences of your actions?"

"Oh, consequences?" Orson grinned, "My dad, my uncle, and my brother are all out there. I'm not afraid of you."

Orson had never taken a liking to Phineas and his ilk, always sensing something wrong about them. When Norbert suddenly got into trouble, Mr. Hetfield had left explicit instructions for them to look after him. But the moment Mr. Hetfield left, Phineas returned with his crew and took control of Hetfield's Estate. Those who resisted were captured and locked up, leaving Orson no time to warn Mrs. Hetfield properly.

Seeing that Orson was unfazed, Phineas changed tactics, "Have you asked Morwenna if she wants to return to the estate? Norbert is still there, you know."

Orson hesitated. True, Norbert was still at the estate. With everyone out here, who knew what was happening to him? Maybe he should go back and guard Norbert, in case Phineas and his men tried something.

Just as Orson was about to speak, Claude stepped forward, "Ms. Winslet says she doesn't want to return."

He then whispered to Orson, "Don't worry. They're not going to harm Norbert. Until they replace Ms. Winslet, they need him in one piece more than anyone."

Orson was puzzled but trusted Claude's assurance that Norbert was safe. Phineas's eyes narrowed when he saw Claude, "Who gave you the right to speak, you little brat? Get Morwenna out here; I want to hear it from her."

Claude was used to the insults-"brat," "freak," he'd heard them all. But Orson wasn't. Stepping protectively in front of Claude, Orson frowned, "Phineas! They say I'm simple-minded, but I think you're the real fool here. Have you no basic manners?"

Claude was taken aback, not accustomed to having someone stand up for him.

Phineas was livid, his temper barely in check as he gestured to his guards, "Get in there and take them by force!"

Claude had anticipated this and had arranged for several guards of his own. But as Phineas gave the order, reinforcements poured out of several cars that had pulled up behind him.