Chapter 141

"Adrian, we need to talk."

"Uncle Xavier, I was thinking the same."

The older man studied him for a long moment before chuckling low. "Seems you've already guessed what I want to discuss."

Adrian remained silent with a slight nod.

"I never had children of my own. Now all I want is to find a worthy successor." Xavier traced the rim of his teacup. "I chose you because of your capability and determination."

Adrian lowered his gaze.

"I helped you rebuild your empire. Paved the way for you. The condition was your undivided focus on business." Xavier took a slow sip. "Yet now, you seem to have forgotten our agreement."

"I'll never forget what you've done for me."

"And yet?" Xavier's laugh was cold. "Women are masters of deception. She abandoned you when you were at your lowest. Now that you've regained your fortune, she comes crawling back. Can't you see through such an obvious ploy?"

Adrian's fingers twitched, though his voice stayed even. "Lily is carrying my child."

"Still putting on this act for me?" Xavier shook his head. "I know exactly who holds your heart."

Silence stretched between them.

"We all lose our heads over love when we're young." Xavier sighed. "When you reach my age, you'll understand—love is nothing but lies women spin to ensnare men."

"Uncle Xavier—"

"I was nearly destroyed by a woman's deceit." Xavier abruptly rolled up his pant leg, revealing a metallic prosthetic. "This is the price I paid! She swore to care for me, then ran off with my money and another man!"

Adrian's fists clenched. "Stella is different."

"All crows are black under the same sky!" Xavier snapped. "Stella, Lily—which one hasn't lied to you?"

"Stella would never—"

"Enough." Xavier raised a hand. "You still owe me two favors. Now I'm calling in the second one."

Adrian's head jerked up.

Xavier heaved himself back into his chair, breathing heavily. "I want you to leave Stella. In return, I'll help you uncover the truth about your parents' accident."

———

Night fell, city lights flickering to life.

Adrian stood outside the rose garden apartment building, cigarette smoke curling around him. His phone buzzed amidst the haze.

[Come home quick Daddy! Mommy made SO much yummy food!]

The corners of his lips lifted. Stella must have put their son up to this—she was always so shy about expressing affection directly.

[Tell Mommy to open the door]

The elevator doors slid open just as the apartment door swung inward. Stella gripped the handle, suddenly meeting his intense gaze.

"Mommy! Is it Daddy?" Ethan peeked out from behind her, tilting his head before frowning. "Daddy, where's your superpower?"

"What superpower?"

"Martha said you're a superhero!" The boy circled him excitedly. "Where's your cape?"

Adrian laughed, scooping him up. "Heroes have to keep their identities secret."

His free hand found Stella's, fingers lingering over her bare ring finger.

"Are you free soon?" he murmured.

"Hmm?"

"You've designed so much jewelry." He brushed his thumb across her knuckles. "It's time you created a ring for yourself."

The tips of Stella's ears turned pink as she pulled away, fleeing toward the kitchen. "I-I should help Martha."

Adrian watched her retreating figure, warmth softening his gaze.