Ch. 1331..1340

Chapter 1331

After the inhumane treatment period and various other events, Zachary no longer cared much about life, death, and sickness.

He was no longer as despondent as he used to be, and he was no longer anxious. Instead, he calmly let nature run its course.

Zachary, who was on the couch, calmly instructed, “Find an instructor who can guide me through the blindness. From tomorrow onward, I'll have to train myself to move around without relying on my sight. That way, I'll have the freedom of movement even if I really go blind in the future.”

“Mr. Nacht.” Ben's eyes were red from hearing his words, but he dared not say anything else. “I understand. I'll work on it tomorrow.”

"About the appointment with Mr. Williams and Mr. Spencer, do separate their appointments. I want to meet them one by one,” Zachary continued, sounding like he was talking about his last words. “I understand.” Ben nodded.

“There's something else.” Zachary mulled over it for a while before saying, “Check on Danrique’s status.”

“Huh?” Ben was surprised.

Zachary and Danrique were archenemies. When news of Danrique’s incident spread, there were rumors in the corporate world that Zachary was involved in what happened to Danrique.

Zachary did not care about it, nor did he intervene in it. Nevertheless, he knew that Danrique’s trusted subordinates were investigating him in the shadows, hoping to find out if he was involved in Danrique’s incident.

Zachary had not been involved. Furthermore, he had been undergoing treatment in solitary, so he never appeared in public. Therefore, no one could find any evidence of his involvement.

However, for him to abruptly look into Danrique’s whereabouts might cause an uproar in the corporate world.

“Do everything to find out about Danrique’s current status,” Zachary ordered.

“Understood, but I have to ask... Why?”

Ben dared not disobey him, but he could not wrap his mind around why Zachary would do that. "Have you seen how many people have added insult to injury after Lindberg Corporation went downhill?"

Leaning back on the sofa, Zachary lit a cigarette and inhaled it.

“Before anything happened to Danrique, he removed Charlotte's ties to Lindberg Corporation before making arrangement for her and the children. As far as I know, he has been a good and loyal brother to Charlotte. If he's back unharmed, then Charlotte and the kids will have someone to back them up. After all, many vultures would be eyeing the assets that they're holding.”

“Mr. Nacht, what is the meaning of this?” Ben panicked. “You're still fine. Nacht Group is still all right!”

"If 1 die, Nacht Group will spiral into chaos,” Zachary quietly said, a hint of sorrow in his tone. Instantly, Ben's eyes welled up with tears. His lips trembled, and the words died in his throat. “What happened to Lindberg Corporation yesterday will happen to Nacht Group in the future,” Zachary added before taking in a deep breath of his cigarette and slowly huffing it out.

“If Grandpa was alive, perhaps it would have lasted a few more years. However, he is not. If I die, Nacht Group will be orphaned. Most importantly, Charlotte has not come back yet. Her current identity would not be appropriate for taking over Nacht Group.”

"Why don't we...” Ben trailed off, losing all courage to say it out loud.

“All right. You can go back to your work.” Zachary wanted some time alone.

"Yes, Sir.” Ben hung his head and left.

"How's Mr. Nacht?” Bruce asked in a quiet voice that could not conceal his anxiety. “I came back right after receiving the message. How is he now?”

Ben then pulled him to the side and conveyed Zachary's order to him.

“Is that how serious Mr. Nacht's condition is now?” Bruce was alarmed to hear that. “He's planning for his posthumous matters?”

“Pah!” Ben spat. “B*stard, can't you say anything nicer with that mouth of yours?”

“Wait, but what you've said are...” Bruce dared not repeat himself, but he could not calm himself down. “No. Even if I turn this world upside down, I have to find where Francesco is.”

Chapter 1332

"Yes, what's most important now is to find Francesco.” There was still a trace of hope that Ben had leaned on. “As long as we find Francesco, Mr. Nacht will be saved.”

“Indeed. Still, we have to be prepared,” Bruce said. “By the way, how is Ms. Lindberg? When is she going to come back?”

"Come back?” Ben was simultaneously furious and anxious when Charlotte was mentioned. “Mr. Nacht had been so careful in making sure that she doesn't find out about his illness. Furthermore, she’s cautious. Their relationship is still tense.”

"Why won't they just be honest with each other? We're already at this point!” Bruce blurted out. “If anything does happen to Mr. Nacht, no one will be leading the Nacht family. When that happens, it'll be nothing but chaos!”

“I know. I'm anxious about it too.” Ben sighed. “If Ms. Lindberg comes back, we'll have someone to lead us, at least. With Mr. Spencer and Mr. Sterk’s support, as well as our protection, no outsiders will try to wreck chaos.”

"What is Ms. Lindberg thinking? Even if she doesn't think for her sake, she has to consider the children, right?” Ben's heart lurched. “The three kids are still young. As great a man as Mr. Spencer, he is but a servant at the end of the day. He can’t become the head of the family like Ms. Lindberg.” "We're just pointlessly fretting now. Let's just work on what Mr. Nacht has instructed us to do first,” Ben finally said.

“I think it's time for you and Marino to do your part,” Bruce said, glancing at his surroundings. “If Mr. Nacht refuses to say anything, the two of you will pretend to accidentally spill some beans. I'm sure that Ms. Lindberg will come back once she finds out about the truth.”

“If Mr. Nacht finds out about it, we'll be in big trouble.” Ben hesitated. “He's very nonaccepting of that idea; he hopes that Ms. Lindberg comes back to the Nacht family out of love and not pity.”

“Is there any difference?” Bruce groaned. “A woman only feels bad for a man if she loves him. Why would she care about him otherwise?”

“Huh. You're right.” Ben was starting to waver with his decision.

“I'm always right,” Bruce huffed. “I just can't stand you all beating around the bush in a relationship. It's so annoying. If I were you, I'd just snatch the person home if I happen to fall in love with her.” At that, Ben cast Bruce a look of admiration. “I never thought you'd be that bold.”

"Stop babbling and get to work.”

“Got it.”

The brothers then split up and began working on the task that Zachary had assigned them.

After Ben arranged a meeting with Spencer, Johann, and Rodney, he returned to his room. He hesitated, wondering if he should call Lupine and leak bits of the secret to her.

Nevertheless, Lupine called at that moment. “Let's meet.”

“Now?” Ben panicked. Like Bruce had said, Ben was the most cowardly one when it came to romantic relationships.

He was nervous to hear Lupine inviting him out in the middle of the night, alone.

"Yes. Right now,” Lupine demanded. “Meet me at the large tree at the back of the mountain in Northridge. I have to see you in ten minutes!”

With that said, Lupine ended the call.

Ben held the phone with shaky hands. After a moment of hesitation, he went downstairs.

“Ben, it's late. Where are you going? I can help you with it,” Marino said when he entered the house and encountered Ben.

“I'm going out for a while. Stay right outside Mr. Nacht's room in case he needs anything,” Ben told him.

“I don't think I'm up for the task,” Marino worriedly said. “What are you going to do? Why don't I go on your behalf? Mr. Nacht is used to having you around. I don't get what he’s trying to say sometimes.”

“I'll be back soon.”

As if someone was running after him, Ben darted out of the house before speeding off in his car. Marino watched him leave, sensing something fishy about him. Despite that, he dared not ask too many questions as he hurried upstairs to guard Zachary's room.

Chapter 1333

Chapter 1333

“I wanted Morgan to go at first, as Marino is easier to deal with. However, I thought about it and felt that Morgan is more careless, so I've decided to send you instead,” Charlotte said in a grim tone. “Ben is Zachary's trusted subordinate. If there's anything wrong with Zachary, Ben will certainly know.”

“I understand.” Lupine nodded. “Don’t worry, Ms. Lindberg.”

"Remember, you have to be sneaky about it,” Charlotte reminded. “Ben is a wary man. Your first step is to attack him through the emotional route. When he’s caught off guard, find out about Zachary's condition from him."

"Got it.” By then, Lupine's face was a little red. “I, too, thought that something was up when they were leaving earlier. Ben was supporting Mr. Nacht carefully as if the latter was going to fall at any time.”

“I know what you mean.” Charlotte was fighting a rising panic, and that was why she was sending Lupine to find out more. “All right. It's almost time now. Hurry along.”

"Okay." Lupine left.

in the meantime, Charlotte paced in her room. She looked at the sofa that Zachary sat on earlier before looking at the spot where the tea had been spilled. The more she ruminated about what happened earlier, the more anxious she became.

Zachary had been avoiding eye contact with her, and he had missed the things he wanted to take a few times. Clearly, there was something wrong with him.

Then, she thought about the time when she brought Robbie and Ellie to Erihal. During those two months, Zachary had not contacted the children. In the end, she had to contact Ben before Zachary called them.

Nevertheless, every call of his only lasted minutes at most.

She had sensed something amiss back then, but Ben told her that he had gone to M Nation to deal with the headquarters’ matters. He had also explained to her that there had been an assassination attempt on him on his way there and that he was injured, so Charlotte did not dwell too long on that matter.

Now that she thought about it, she could not help but wonder, Was his injury severe? Is there some long-lasting effect of it?

Her legs were wobbly with fear. Charlotte truly hoped that Lupine would be able to get some clues from Ben.

Meanwhile, at Southridge.

When Zachary heard the sound of a car starting up outside, he cried out, “Ben!”

“Sir.” Marino tiptoed into the room. “Mr. Nacht, Ben has gone out. Is there anything you'd like me to do?”

"Why is he going out so late at night?” Zachary asked

“I don't know because he didn't tell me anything. He seemed like he was in a rush, however.” Noticing the lack of lights in the room, Marino asked, “Do you want me to turn on the lights?” Zachary knew that Marino was young, and he was not as guarded as the rest of them. Fearing that Morgan would set up a trap for Marino to gain information from him, he had sent Marino out on various tasks recently.

Therefore, Marino still did not know about how he had abruptly lost his vision earlier in the day. “It's fine.” Zachary then asked, “Ben was in a rush when he went out? Did he take anyone with him?” "Yes, he was really in a hurry. I saw him running down the stairs, but he didn't take anyone with him.”

“Call him,” Zachary instructed. “Tell him that I know he went out.”

“Huh?” Marino was confused—he did not know what Zachary meant—but he still did as he was told to.

Ben was already at the back of the mountain. When he stepped out of the car, he spotted Lupine walking down the slope.

She seemed to have dressed up, for she was wearing a dress. The night breeze billowed her skirt, and she looked gorgeous.

Ben's hands were cold and clammy, and he hurriedly combed his hair while looking at the rearview mirror. Right as anticipation filled his chest, the phone in his pocket rang.

He quickly picked it up. “Hey, Marino, what's up?”

“Ben, Mr. Nacht knows that you've gone out,” Marino repeated what Zachary had told him.

Ben froze before squeezing out, “What did he say?”

“Nothing. He just asked me to convey this message to you.”

Right as those words left Marino's mouth, he nervously turned to glance at Zachary, fearing that the latter would be mad at him.

Chapter 1334

Chapter 1334

“All right. I understand.” Ben raised his head to look at Lupine, who was getting closer and closer to him, and he snapped back to reality. “Tell Mr. Nacht that I'll be back soon.”

"Oh, okay.”

After ending the call, Marino cast a tentative glance at Zachary and said, “Ben said he's going to come back soon.”

"Okay." Zachary then made a dismissive gesture.

With a lowered head, Marino left, closing the door behind him quietly.

In the dark, Zachary continued to smoke as he mulled over his emotions. He had instantly realized that Charlotte had asked Lupine to invite Ben out so that she could sound him out.

Ben was a smart man; he should have realized that as well.

Nevertheless, he still went.

Perhaps it was because he could not reject Lupine, or perhaps he wanted to use that way to relieve his guilt in leaking out the secret so that Charlotte could go back to the Nacht family.

Regardless of everything, by meeting Lupine, Ben was prepared to become a traitor.

Therefore, Zachary had told Marino to make the call and tell Ben that he knew he had gone to meet Lupine.

Even now, Marino still had trouble comprehending what they meant. On the other hand, Ben understood them immediately.

If Zachary knew that he had gone out in secret to meet Lupine, that meant he knew about what he and Lupine were about to do. If he were to say the wrong words, then he would no longer be able to return to the Nacht family.

That was why Ben had snapped back to reality and regained his rationality.

Lupine's little trick was bound to fail

In terms of scheming, Charlotte could never win against Zachary.

Nevertheless, he was delighted to find out that she had done all those to figure out what was wrong with him

That meant that she was worried about him.

"Ben!"

“Lupine!”

It was the first time the two had met in private, let alone on a dark night like that.

They could not help but feel nervous and shy.

Although Ben had been to almost everywhere with Zachary and had seen countless scenarios, it was the first date of his life.

“Are you cold?” Lupine murmured.

“I'm not.” Ben then lifted his head to look at Lupine, thinking, She's so pretty today. With a little bit of dressing up, she looks like a beautiful girl.

However, those were the words he did not dare to let pass his teeth.

“I'm cold,” Lupine grumbled.

“Oh,” Ben answered dumbly. It took a second or two before he recollected his senses. “Then let's hurry into the car. It's warm inside.”

Lupine was speechless. She thought he would take off his jacket and put it on her. That way, she would be able to lean into his arms and begin their intimate moment. Then, she would be able to pry the information from him.

Yet, Ben was telling her that the inside of the car was warmer.

In the meantime, without much thought into it, Ben opened the door to the front passenger seat. Left without a choice, Lupine stepped into the car. After Ben turned on the heater and adjusted the temperature, he softly asked, “Are you still cold?”

“Not anymore.” Now, Lupine did not know what she could do to make him talk. The jacket trick had been something Morgan taught her.

"H-Have you had your dinner?” Ben asked.

“Yes.” Lupine rolled her eyes. This guy's just asking a bunch of silly questions.

“Then, can I know why you've asked me to come out?” Ben's heart raced as he gazed at her.

“Must I have a reason to invite you here?” Lupine huffed out.

“No, no,” Ben denied. “I'm just worried if anything has happened to you. I hope I can help you out.” “You're finally talking,” Lupine commented as her mood brightened up. In a shy voice, she muttered, “There's nothing, really. It's just that we're living close by now, and since there's nothing going on for my side, I wanted to meet you.”

Ben's heart skipped a beat when he heard her words. “You're right. We've never gotten a chance to sit down and have a nice chat by ourselves.”

“Now we do.” Lupine then mustered her courage to look into his eyes. “If you're free, you can come and look for me.”

"How could I possibly be free? I'm so busy all the time,” Ben blurted out before he realized what he had said. “Still, Ill come and meet you when I have the time.”

Chapter 1335

Chapter 1335

"What are you busy with?” Lupine complained. “Lindberg Corporation isn't fighting against you nowadays; Nacht Group is monopolizing the corporate world. What could you possibly be busy with?"

“It's true that everything's going fine in the company, but...”

At that point, Ben realized what Lupine was doing. If not for his wary nature, he would have let the secret slip without noticing

“But what?”

“I'm Mr. Nacht's right-hand man. I have to do everything myself. Naturally, I won't have a lot of free time,” Ben said with a smile. “Nevertheless, I can still come out here once in a while.”

"Oh, all right.” Lupine realized that her plan had failed, so she decided to change her strategies. “There's something in your hair.”

"What?" Before Ben could react, Lupine had reached out toward the top of his head, causing him to stiffen up.

Her fingers gently combed his hair, seemingly casual but affectionately. His heart began thumping loudly.

“It's a leaf!” Lupine took out a dried leaf from his head and chuckled. “Were you at a forest? How did the leaf get into your hair?”

"Oh. Maybe it was from earlier, when I was under the tree.”

Ben was so nervous to the point his face was as red as a tomato, and he was almost hyperventilating.

“By the way, did you skip dinner tonight?” Lupine took out a small bag of something from her pocket. “I made these green pea tartlets myself. Have a try.”

You made these?” Ben took them and placed one in his mouth. Its sweetness reached all the way into his heart. “This is delicious!”

“I'm glad you like them. I'll get you more tomorrow.” Lupine giggled. “Robbie, Jamie, Ellie, and the three other little ones like them too. The three little ones, especially. They're always pestering me to make more for them.”

“Haha! The kids are adorable.” Ben beamed.

"You like them too, right?” Lupine asked in a merry tone. “Ms. Lindberg was worried that Mr. Nacht wouldn't like the three little ones, but it seems like they're getting along with each other. I'm sure Ms. Lindberg will be relieved.”

“Indeed. Mr. Nacht looks cold, but he's a kind man inside.” Pride swelled in Ben's heart when he talked about Zachary. “The kids adore him.”

"Yes. After Mr. Nacht left, I went to tuck the three little ones into bed. They even told me that they hoped Mr. Nacht would be able to tell them more stories tomorrow.”

Then, with a smile, Lupine asked, “Will Mr. Nacht come tomorrow?”

“I don't think so,” Ben replied before his mind truly registered the question.

"What's the matter?” They had finally reached the main topic Lupine wanted to know more about. “I noticed something off with him when you were leaving earlier. Is he sick?”

“No, no, he’s fine,” Ben explained. “Maybe his legs went numb when he was reading the kids bedtime stories. Moreover, it seems like he was scalded when he was chatting with Ms. Lindberg in the bedroom.”

“Is that all?” Lupine wondered out loud. “It looks to me that he's feeling some discomfort in his eyes.”

“Maybe something got into his eyes when he came down the stairs earlier,” Ben said dismissively. “All right.” There was nothing Lupine could do when Ben refused to give her any answers.

“It's getting late. Let me send you back.”

The longer they chatted, the likelier he might blurt something he should not, so it was best for him to end the date as quickly as possible.

“You're going back?” Lupine asked, disappointment evident in her voice.

“Bruce went out to work on something, and I'm not home, so I'm a little worried.” Ben did not have the courage to stay out for long with Zachary’s current condition. “Everyone else is careless, so I have to stay home by Zachary's side.”

“Okay.” Lupine then stepped out of the car. “I'll walk myself back. It's just a short path home. You should hurry home too.”

“I'll leave when I see you reach the door.”

Ben then turned on the car lights to illuminate her path.

His gesture warmed her heart, and she waved at him before jogging up the path.

Chapter 1336

Chapter 1336

Lupine got home and reported everything about Ben to Charlotte.

Charlotte knitted her brows and responded in disbelief. “Are you sure? You mean I was wrong?”

“I don't think he lied.” Lupine thought about it. “But before they left, I did feel there was something weird about Mr. Nacht...”

“Continue to monitor and test them,” Charlotte ordered. “Try asking him out again tomorrow.” Lupine nodded and consoled Charlotte. “Don’t worry, Ms. Lindberg. No news is good news. Perhaps there's nothing wrong with Mr. Nacht?”

“I hope so.” Charlotte let out a sigh. “I'm afraid he's keeping things from me.”

"You still care for him.” Lupine could tell. “And I think he cares for you too. Why don't you two get back together?”

“It's easier said than done.” Charlotte sighed. “Besides, there are still many obstacles that get in our way..."

"What obstacles?” Lupine was puzzled. “Since Mr. Henry is not around anymore, no one can stop the two of you from getting back together anymore.”

“Whatever that has happened in the past, I can't just let them be bygones,” Charlotte uttered with a bitter smile. “Our feuds may be in the past, but the pain remains.”

Besides, it's not just a relationship problem but a feud between the Nachts and Linbergs. I'm in no position to say or do anything at this point. What would others think of me if I return to the Nacht family when Danrique is still missing? And what if Danrique returns?

“You're right.” Lupine did not know what else to say anymore.

“It's getting late. Go and get some rest.” Charlotte gently patted her shoulder.

Lupine nodded. “You too. Remember don’t wet your injured hand. Call us if you need any help.” “Got it.”

The room quietened down once again after Lupine had left.

Charlotte lay on the bed and could not sleep.

Everything that had happened today flashed across her mind, and she remembered how agitated Zachary was when she got injured. The way he looked her in the eyes had stirred her emotions. Charlotte could feel the love he had for her, but she did not have the courage to start afresh with him.

Despite not being able to get back together with him, she still wanted the best for him.

Hence, she must get to the bottom of that matter.

Zachary, who also had trouble falling asleep, sat alone in the dark. The room was so quiet that the only sound in it was his breathing.

The hours gradually ticked away yet he was still wide awake.

He was afraid that he might not wake up had he fallen asleep.

It was the first time Zachary's vision was lost entirely ever since he fell ill three months ago. Though he had regained his vision, he felt his time on earth was running out.

He was worried.

Before I die, I must make all the arrangements properly. I must make sure my family, career, children, and Charlotte are all taken care of even when I'm gone!

He believed everything was under his control, but not Charlotte. He did not know what to do with her.

Just when he was deep in thoughts, Ben knocked on the door. “I'm back.”

“Come in," Zachary responded.

Ben apologized and entered the room slowly. He then reported the conversation he had with Lupine to him. “It was clear that she was testing me, but I didn't say anything.”

“You would have told her had I not reminded you, wouldn't you?” Zachary questioned him.

Ben lowered his head and kept mum. He dared not lie as he knew Zachary could read his mind.

 

 

Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1337

“Listen.” Instead of blaming Ben, Zachary warned. “I don’t want someone to love me out of sympathy. A relationship built upon sympathy is meaningless, and I don’t need it!”

Ben kneeled before him on one knee and begged for his forgiveness. “I’m sorry, Mr. Nacht. Please forgive me.”

“All my life as a businessman, I’ve been through hell, but nothing had ever taken me down. Even now I’m on the brink of death, I’m not afraid of dying, because I’ve lived my whole life with dignity. So please don’t take the last shred of dignity away from me. You hear me?” Zachary said in a calm but sorrowful voice.

“Got it.” Ben kept his head down. Tears began to well up in his eyes.

It must have taken this egoistic man a lot of courage to admit how vulnerable he was at this point. Zachary must have trusted Ben wholeheartedly to make that remark.

He hoped Ben could understand him and stop doing anything that would upset him further.

“All right.” Zachary let out a deep sigh. “You may go.”

“I’m so sorry…” Ben apologized in a hoarse voice and left the room.

After a final puff at his last cigarette, Zachary returned to his bed. He was a little worn out, and his back hurt. Suddenly, he recalled how weak Dr. Felch was before he passed away.

Right now, he felt just as weak and sickly.

I can’t sleep. I got to stay awake!

Zachary had to remind himself to stay awake as he was afraid he would pass away in his sleep.

After fighting off sleepiness for some time, he gave in and dozed off.

In his dream, countless demons grabbed him from below as if they were trying to pull him into the abyss.

He struggled to escape but to no avail. His body was so stiff that he did not have any energy to fight back.

All of a sudden, he heard Henry’s voice from afar. “Stay strong, Zachary. You cannot fall. The entire Nacht family depends on you.”

All these years, he had pushed himself beyond his limits, but at this point, he could not take it anymore.

“How are you feeling? Are you tired? Come, take a break.” His father’s gentle voice emerged from the other side.

Zachary knew his father had never cared about power or prestige. All his father ever wanted was for him to be happy.

Yet, in reality, Zachary never had the chance to experience such love and care, as his father passed away at a young age.

Growing up, Zachary had no choice but to live up to Henry’s expectations and fulfill all the responsibilities as a Nacht.

“Honey, come to Mommy. Come here…” His mother’s compassionate voice emerged next.

The love and care his parents showered upon him in his dream had comforted him for a bit. How he wished he could leave everything behind and not have a care in the world.

But soon, all sorts of voices echoed in his ear. “You mustn’t fall, Mr. Nacht! Divine Corporation needs you, and Nacht Group needs you! The Nacht family cannot survive without you!”

“Our livelihood depends on you, Mr. Nacht. Our lives are in your hands!”

Once again, these voices reminded him of all the responsibilities he had to shoulder.

Zachary dared not put his guard down. He had no choice but to persevere.

In his dream, he also saw the innocent smile on his children’s faces. “Daddy! Daddy!”

Zachary felt much better after seeing their adorable faces and hearing their vibrant voices.

A pair of dainty hands gently tapped on his. The person then whispered in his ear, “Don’t worry, I’m here with you. I’ll be with you till the end of time.”

Charlotte…

What Charlotte said in his dream gave him hope.

He grabbed her hands and tried to crawl up from the ground. Yet, all of a sudden, she pulled her hands away and shoved him into the abyss.

Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1338

Zachary was jolted awake from the nightmare. His eyes were wide open as he had not recovered from the shock.

His mind turned blank when the dream ended, but the fear continued to haunt him even after he had woken up.

It took him a while to pull himself together. He placed his palm on his forehead, trying to regain his composure.

He looked out of the window and realized it was already the next morning.

The sky was drizzling, and he could hear car noises from a distance.

Zachary looked at the clock and noticed it was only seven in the morning. He wanted to go back to sleep, but something seemed to have triggered him, causing him to open his eyes.

He could see now.

In fact, his vision was so clear that he could see everything around him.

Unlike how weak and stiff his body was last night, he felt energetic today.

False alarm, I see…

I don’t think I’ll die so soon. At least not now. Thank God!

Zachary took a deep breath and got up from his bed. He must not waste any time as he had to accomplish as many plans as possible while he still could.

“Daddy, Daddy!” Robbie, Jamie, and Ellie barged into his room.

“Hey. Welcome home.” Zachary bent down and extended his arms to embrace them.

While Jamie and Ellie ran up to Zachary and hugged him, Robbie observed him from a distance with knitted brows.

“It’s time to go to school now.” Zachary rubbed Jamie and Ellie’s head. “You’re half a semester behind, so you must work harder to catch up!”

“Okay, Daddy!” Jamie and Ellie responded with a nod.

Robbie remained silent. A glint of confusion continued to flash across his eyes.

“What’s wrong, Robbie?” Zachary turned to him and asked. “Don’t you want to go to school?”

“Don’t you remember, Daddy? I’m learning much faster than what the school taught because I have a private tutor,” Robbie answered softly.

Zachary reached out his hands and embraced him. “Are you not bored? You should go to school with Jamie and Ellie if you’re bored.”

Jamie stepped in and said, “We’ll go together tomorrow. There’ll be a celebration in school tomorrow, and Mommy has given us permission to bring Alpha, Beta, and Gamma with us.”

“I’m so excited! I wonder if they’ll like our school,” Ellie chuckled. “Can they come with us, Daddy?”

“Go ahead, since Mommy has given you the green light.” Zachary gave Ellie a peck on her kiss. He then turned to Robbie, “Will you join them?”

“Yes,” Robbie replied. He then turned to Jamie and Ellie, “You two should better get going.”

“Oh, no. We’re going to be late soon!” Jamie took a glance at his watch. “Mr. Marino, prepare the car! I’ll go and grab my bag now.”

“Wait for me!” Ellie, too, dashed out of the room. Before leaving, she turned around, ran to Zachary, and kissed his cheeks. “Bye, Daddy! Bye Robbie!”

“Bye, Ellie.” Robbie waved at her.

“Have you taken your breakfast?” Zachary asked.

“Yes, at Mommy’s place…” The two little ones put on their bags and scurried to the car.

After sending Jamie and Ellie off, Zachary squatted down and rubbed Robbie’s head gently. “You don’t look happy. Is everything okay?”

“Are you sick, Daddy?” Robbie asked. “You couldn’t see anything last night, right? You made up a story because you couldn’t read the words in the book. Are you sick? Tell me now.” Tears started rolling down his cheeks.

Zachary looked at Robbie and froze right there. So that’s what’s bothering my poor child. He doesn’t deserve to go through this. He’s only six years old…

Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1339

The boy had easily seen through something that none of the adults had noticed.

On top of that, he even kept it to himself and played along so that no one would discover the truth about his father’s condition.

Only after everyone had left did he finally bring up his worries.

My poor boy, he must have suffered a lot.

“You silly boy.” Zachary put on a relaxed front despite the stabbing pain in his chest. With a smile, he said to Robbie, “Look at me. Aren’t I just fine? I can see your charming little face, and I can also see your light blue shirt and navy knitted vest. You look like a gentleman! What made you think there’s something wrong with my eyes?”

“Are you really okay?” Robbie waved a hand in front of his father’s face.

“I’m fine. Really.”

Suppressing his heartache, Zachary took Robbie’s hand and pulled the boy into an embrace.

“You’re only six years old, Robbie. You should be as carefree as Jamie and Ellie are, living your life without any worries. Leave the important matters to the adults.”

Robbie choked up. “I know that, but I just can’t stop myself from overthinking. Sometimes, I also feel that being too smart isn’t a good thing. It’s like I understand everything that’s happening, but there’s nothing I can do.”

Zachary held his son even more tightly. In truth, he used to feel the same way when he was young.

As a child, he saw through everything that happened between the adults around him.

Yet, he did not have the power to protect his loved ones.

It would have been better not knowing anything and simply growing up like every other naïve child.

Unfortunately, just like Robbie, the young Zachary could not stop worrying.

Such conflicting feelings were utterly tormenting.

“I’ll protect you no matter what happens, Robbie,” Zachary said gently while patting the child on the back. “You don’t have to be afraid of anything as long as I’m with you. Don’t worry about anything. Just grow up happily like every other kid, okay?”

Robbie wanted to agree, but he knew he could not do as asked.

“All right, lad, I have some sorting out to do. Mr. Spencer’s coming over in a while. Why don’t you go play in the garden?” Zachary coaxed.

“I have to deal with some matters, so I’ll be in my study.” Robbie gazed at him. “If something comes up, could you let me know? Maybe I can be of help.”

“You’ve already been a great help. Have you forgotten? Divine Corporation’s managed to come up with several new tech products thanks to you.” Zachary stroked the boy’s head.

“I meant—” Before Robbie could say anything more, a knock sounded at the door, followed by Ben’s voice. “Mr. Nacht! Mr. Spencer has arrived.”

“Lead him to the dining room. I’ll be right there to have breakfast with him,” replied Zachary.

“Yes, Sir.” Ben headed downstairs.

“Well, I’ll be going now.” Robbie gave Zachary a hug before turning to leave.

Zachary’s chest tightened as he watched his son walk away, albeit feeling assured about having a successor at the same time.

At least I know that when I’m gone one day, Nacht Group will be safe in his hands. Still, someone’s going to have to call the shots before that day comes.

At that thought, Zachary grew solemn. I have to be extra prepared. If Charlotte doesn’t come back, I need to keep Nacht Group alive for at least twelve more years until Robbie turns eighteen. That’s still a long way to go. I’ll have to lay all the foundations out before that.

Then, he quickly washed up, changed his clothes, and headed downstairs to meet Spencer.

Meanwhile, Robbie sat in front of his computer in the study, searching for Danrique’s whereabouts.

He had inadvertently found out from Marino that Zachary was looking for someone named Francesco, who was Danrique’s close friend. I have to find Uncle Dan first.

Mistaking a Magnate for a Male Escort Chapter 1340

Spencer had been recuperating at Garden Villa ever since Henry’s passing and would seldom leave the place unless Zachary summoned him.

When Zachary underwent treatment for those two months, he occasionally took charge.

Although he had no idea what happened to Zachary, he figured the latter had run into some problems.

Since Zachary’s return, he had been waiting for the young man to contact him.

After receiving Ben’s phone call the night before, Spencer could not sleep a wink, for he could tell that something big was about to happen. That was why he rushed over first thing the next morning.

Coincidentally, he bumped into the three children who had just come back from Northridge and chatted with them for a while. The sight of them zooming upstairs to look for their father made him smile.

Mr. Henry used to love the kids most when he was still around. It was like he saw a glimpse of hope in his life along with the Nacht family’s future whenever he met them.

Soon after, he quickly comforted himself. No, stop thinking such thoughts. Mr. Zachary’s just fine, and so are the Nachts. Everything’s perfectly fine.

“Mr. Spencer,” greeted Zachary as he walked downstairs in a set of comfortable loungewear.

“Mr. Zachary,” Spencer responded, rising to his feet. However, when he noticed how thin the man had become, he furrowed his brows. “It’s only been about two months since we last met; what happened to you?”

“My diet plan was a success,” Zachary joked.

Spencer could not bring himself to laugh, raising the corner of his lips ever so slightly. “I just met the children. They’ve grown up so much. Such adorable little ones.”

“Indeed. They grow up so fast.”

As soon as Zachary took his seat, Hanna summoned the housemaids to serve breakfast.

Spencer stared at him intently. “I met Johann a few days ago. He told me you’d been back at work for the past two weeks. How are you? Are you feeling well?”

“I should be asking you that instead.” Zachary smiled faintly. “You’re not young anymore, so you should take extra care of your health.”

“I’m doing pretty swell since I’ve been recuperating for a long time. My leg’s gotten much better now.” Spencer chuckled. “You, on the other hand, have lost quite a lot of weight.”

Zachary did not respond and drank his coffee in silence.

Just then, Hanna and the maids returned with breakfast. “Let’s eat, Mr. Spencer. We’ll have a talk in the study later,” he proposed.

“All right.” Spencer’s expression turned grim, and he had lost all his appetite.

The two shared a simple breakfast before heading to the study. By then, Hanna had already prepared them some tea and fruits. At the sight of their arrival, she excused herself and left.

Ben wheeled Spencer into the room and stood next to him.

A stack of papers was placed on the coffee table. Passing them to Spencer, Zachary said, “Have a look at these.”

“What are these?” Spencer took the documents. Then, his eyes widened in shock as he glanced at them. “What is the meaning of this, Mr. Zachary?”

“I’ve spoken to your doctor. You’re in great health, and you’ll live to see another decade as long as nothing major happens to you.”

Zachary took a sip of his coffee before continuing, “That’s why I’ve gotten Mr. Williams to draw up a will for me. In the event that something happens to me, you will have the guardianship of my three children. I want you to look after them well.”

“Mr. Zachary…” Spencer panicked, his hands beginning to tremble. “What on earth is happening? Don’t scare me like this.”

“Nothing,” Zachary answered with a faint smile, feigning nonchalance. “This is just a backup plan.”

“A backup plan? What for?” Spencer demanded agitatedly. “You’re still so young, and Nacht Group’s fate rests on your shoulders! You can’t go yet…”

While speaking, the older man’s breathing grew erratic, and Ben quickly served him his medication.

“What the hell is going on here?” Not daring to lose his temper at Zachary, Spencer proceeded to slap Ben on the back of his head. “You’d better explain everything to me loud and clear.”