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As the widely-recognized “heir apparent,” Grayson Hawthorne arguably has the most to lose when the time comes to read his grandfather’s will. He has been preparing for this role for his whole life, and his professionalism, command of attention, and self-confidence indicate that he is more than ready to carry on Tobias Hawthorne’s legacy. The revelation that Avery will inherit the fortune instead shatters Grayson’s world, forcing him to rediscover his purpose and identity. This process is anything but smooth as he instinctually becomes hostile and accusatory toward Avery, relying on his sense of self-importance to ease the pain he feels regarding the abrupt end to his future plans. Grayson also initially refuses to get involved in his grandfather’s game and searches for answers by investigating Avery’s past instead. His family-first approach sets him apart from Jameson who, with his sensation-seeking tendencies, gravitates towards Avery and the game from the beginning. Even when Grayson does start looking for clues, he attempts to do so on his own terms. 

Grayson’s cold and distant attitude eventually softens, however, thanks to two key moments. He comes to accept Avery as the rightful inheritor of Tobias Hawthorne’s fortune after discovering that she has not spent any of the money herself, and he admits that he misjudged her during their time at the Hawthorne Foundation. Bonding over their shared passion for data and statistics, Grayson allows himself to become a partner to Avery in the game and vows to keep her safe. This moment represents Grayson’s growing acceptance of his new position within the Hawthorne House. Despite this progress, he cannot fully move on from his past because of the guilt he feels about Emily Laughlin’s death. Grayson believes that Avery’s inheritance and the puzzle his grandfather left for them are both intended to punish him for his complicity. The vulnerability he displays when telling Avery the full story of Emily’s tragic end, however, suggests that he is finally finding the courage to face the source of his pain. No longer hiding behind the powerful identity of an “heir apparent,” Grayson ultimately allows himself to lean on his brothers and Avery for support.

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