Ch. 1461..1470

Chapter 1461 The Night Before The Wedding

To their dismay, Francesco seemed to have vanished into thin air as there were no signs of her at all. Charlotte did not obtain any feedback from the global search notice that she assigned Ben to issue. In other words, everyone had run out of solutions.

As for Zachary, he had given up all hope long ago. The only thing on his mind at the moment was the preparations for the wedding ceremony. He even arranged to retake the wedding photos with the kids during the weekend.

The wedding ceremony was quite different from the previous one, and it would be held at Southridge.

Other than those from the Nacht family and the upper management of the corporation, Zachary did not invite any other influential figures.

That was because he wished that his family members would be the only ones there to witness their love.

Charlotte, too, quite liked the simple and low-profile wedding.

Even their wedding photos were taken near Southridge. The whole family, including Danrique’s triplets, Fifi, and Little Fifi, formed quite a lineup in the forest.

Needless to say, the unique theme suited both Zachary's and Charlotte's vibes perfectly.

On the day before the wedding, Charlotte assigned Lucy to post their latest family portrait of their big family of ten on social media as the official announcement of their marriage.

In no time, it caused a global uproar.

The netizens were all discussing the perfect, unique, and grand wedding and the grudges between the two families.

Of course, some also enthusiastically discussed the six children and the two pets.

Zachary and Charlotte paid no mind to the various comments, doubts, and speculations around their announcement. They only wished for the ceremony to go on smoothly, thus resolving their regret for their incomplete wedding two years ago.

On that day, they had their marriage registered. Everything was good to go.

Hayley and Sam came all the way from Mount Phoenix to attend the wedding ceremony. As they could not cure Zachary, they could only do their best to help out.

Jeffrey, Peter, and the others reached in time to attend the wedding ceremony.

At night, Zachary instructed Hanna to prepare a banquet to serve all their relatives and friends. He also seized the opportunity to express his sincerest gratitude to both Spencer and Johann, telling them that he might need to entrust Nacht Group to them in the future and solemnly requesting them to assist Charlotte and the children in protecting the Nacht family.

Touched by his speech, Spencer and Johann broke into tears and pledged to dedicate their lives to the Nacht family.

At the same time, Bruce also rushed back from Erihal to attend the wedding ceremony. Since Francesco was not in Erihal, Charlotte felt it would be a waste of time if he stayed there. Therefore, she instructed him to return as they might need his help.

The atmosphere at Southridge and Northridge were lively as everyone celebrated the upcoming joyous event.

Charlotte had arranged for the guests to stay over at Northridge and would head over there with Danrique’s triplets later at night. Zachary would then pick her up with his convoy the following morning.

After the banquet, the maids cleaned up while Lupine and Morgan looked after the children. Bruce and Ben were making arrangements for the security measures and the wedding ceremony, respectively.

In the meantime, Zachary and Charlotte were strolling in the garden. As they laid their eyes on their beautifully decorated home, a blissful smile appeared on their faces.

Holding Charlotte's hands, Zachary said, “I'm finally going to marry you. This time around, Ill make sure our wedding is a perfect and memorable one for you!”

Charlotte wrapped her arms around his waist and rested her face on his chest. His steady heartbeat made her feel secure and blissful. “Hubby! I strongly believe that we'll spend the rest of our lives happily together. Trust me!”

Zachary pulled her into his arms, caressing her hair gently. While gazing at the glittering stars in the sky, he whispered a prayer inwardly. God, please protect my wife, and bless her with happiness and peace for the rest of her life.

At the same time, Charlotte also looked intently at the moon high up in the sky, making a wish in her heart. Dear God, please bless my husband with health. I'm willing to sacrifice the rest of my life for his recovery!

Both of them were making a wish simultaneously, ready to sacrifice themselves for the other's health and happiness.

Nonetheless, no one knew if heaven could hear them and grant their wishes.

Chapter 1462 Zachary Is Worried

At late night, peace and quiet returned to Southridge.

The venue was well-decorated for the long-awaited moment, and there was an unmissable hint of blissfulness in the air.

The maids were already in bed as they had to wake up early for the wedding ceremony the following morning.

As for the bodyguards, they were taking their posts as scheduled.

Lupine and Morgan brought the soundly asleep triplets back to Northridge. Reluctantly, Charlotte bid Zachary goodbye. “Hubby, I'm going back now.”

Zachary gazed at her lovingly. “Go ahead then. We'll get to see each other again tomorrow morning. It's just a few hours.”

“But I don't feel like parting with you now.” She tightened her arms around his waist.

Somehow, an inexplicable sense of fear surged within her, as if she had a premonition that a tragedy would occur.

“Then don't go over there. Just stay the night here.” He stroked her long, ruffled hair as he coaxed. Charlotte blushed as she rejected his suggestion. “No way! We still have to follow the custom. You'll need to pick me up from Northridge tomorrow morning!”

Zachary burst into laughter and teased her, “We've been living together as a family anyway. There's no need to go through so much trouble!”

"Hey!" Charlotte punched him lightly on the chest.

Pinching her cheek affectionately, he pointed at the triplets in Lupine’s and Morgan's arms and said, "You'd better go back now. The three of them are already asleep. It's getting colder at night, so they might catch a cold if you stay here any longer.”

“All right. I'll go now.” Charlotte hugged him again before pulling herself away from him reluctantly. When she turned to look for Robbie, Jamie, and Ellie, Hanna told her they had gone to bed. Thus, Charlotte had no choice but to leave without them. After all, Zachary would go over to Northridge the following morning, and they would be reunited again.

When Zachary sent them off, he reminded Marino and Cain to keep their guard up in Northridge. After the convoy from Northridge left, he turned to walk back to the house and get some sleep. All of a sudden, he was overcome by a wave of dizziness. Within seconds, his whole body went limp, and he was going to fall onto the ground. In the nick of time, he stretched out his arms to hold onto the wall, preventing himself from collapsing.

Ben dashed toward him to help him up. “Mr. Nacht! Are you all right?”

"Help me in..." Zachary did not wish to bump into anyone else when he was in such a frail state. "Yes, Mr. Nacht!” Ben was about to support him, but he lost his balance and fell onto the ground. “Mr. Nacht!” Bruce darted toward them and helped Zachary back into the room with Ben.

“I'll give Raina a call now!” Ben whipped out his phone and was about to make a call, but Zachary raised his hand to stop him.

Ben exclaimed anxiously, “Mr. Nacht, but you—"

“It's useless,” Zachary murmured weakly.

Overwhelmed by sorrow, Ben was stumped for words.

Bruce clenched his fists, despising himself for not being able to help with anything.

“Bruce,” Zachary called out to him feebly.

“Mr. Nacht, I'm here.” He moved forward at once and kneeled on one knee at Zachary's bedside, awaiting his instruction.

“Bring your men to... stand guard... at Northridge... We mustn't let an accident happen again...” Zachary was apparently becoming weaker, but he was still mustering up his strength to give Bruce a command.

"Yes, Mr. Nacht. I'll bring them over now.” Bruce nodded respectfully.

He knew too well that Charlotte was devastated when the wedding ceremony was ruined two years ago and understood that Zachary was extra vigilant because he did not wish for her to experience the pain again.

Zachary yearned to present Charlotte with a perfect wedding before he breathed his last. Hence, he instructed Bruce to bring along most of the subordinates to protect her in Northridge.

“Go ahead. I'll be here.” Ben moved closer and crouched down next to Zachary's bed, ready to listen to his instruction. “Mr. Nacht, do you have any other orders?”

Zachary was weak as a kitten, but he was still filled with worry. “Send your men to protect Johann and Spencer... They're the guardians of Nacht Group. If anything happens to them... Charlotte and the kids would be defenseless...”

Ben reassured him, “Mr. Nacht, I get it. Don't worry. I've arranged for Cain, Kyle, and the others to go over. Everything is already taken care of."

Chapter 1463 A Mysterious Figure

"Good..." Zachary's voice trailed off as he nodded weakly. Gradually, he drifted into a deep sleep. Ben pulled the covers around him and stood at the side silently.

His heart ached at the sight of Zachary's wretched condition. Sharing the same sentiments as Bruce, he resented himself for being useless. If he could, he wished to endure the excruciating pain and sorrow on behalf of Zachary.

Ring! Ring! His phone rang abruptly, snapping him out of his thoughts.

It was a call from Charlotte, and he answered it hastily. “Ms. Lindberg.”

"What's the matter? Why did Bruce come over with a large group of men to guard my place? Did Zachary instruct him to do so?” Charlotte questioned.

Ben replied softly, “It was an instruction from Mr. Nacht a while ago. He's already asleep.”

“I'm fine here, so he doesn't have to instruct Bruce to do so. In fact, I'm worried about him over there...” Somehow, she started to feel a prickle of restlessness.

Sensing her anxiety, he tried to reassure her by explaining, “Ms. Lindberg, don't worry. There are still quite a few of us here. Since this is an instruction from Mr. Nacht, we dare not go against him. After the incident two years ago, he’s traumatized and is worried that something will happen to you.” “Nothing will happen to me.” Charlotte sounded sorrowful.

"He'll only feel at ease if your safety is assured. Please just go along with him.” Ben's voice was a bit deep.

With that, she had no choice but to give in. “All right. Make sure you keep an eye on him. Just leave the matters to Marino and the others.”

"Yes, Ms. Lindberg. Please rest well.”

Before hanging up, Charlotte reminded him again. “You have to stay by his side at all times. Don't let anything happen to him.”

“Ms. Lindberg, I know what to do.”

After ending the call, Ben lay on the sofa while keeping an eye on Zachary.

Exhausted from being occupied the past few days, he gradually dozed off.

That night, Marino was in charge of security in Southridge.

Because most of them were transferred to Northridge, only sixteen bodyguards were left in Southridge. However, some were relieved from duty, so only eight men were stationed to stand guard.

Under normal circumstances, it would have been enough since Northridge and Southridge had been peaceful throughout the years.

Even so, Marino reminded everyone not to let their guards down while standing guard. Nothing untoward was allowed to occur before the wedding ceremony.

Therefore, all the bodyguards were on alert.

Soon, it was three after midnight. The entire place was as silent as the grave.

Connor, one of the bodyguards, was on patrol in the garden. When he spotted a figure flashing across one side of the swimming pool, he darted forward and yelled, “Stop right there!”

As the figure stopped in its tracks, Connor could make out the silhouette that appeared exceptionally tall under the dim light. Ah! It's Mr. Nacht!

He stammered apologetically, “M-Mr. Nacht? I'm sorry for yelling at you. I couldn't see clearly just now, and I thought that—"

“Leave me alone!” An authoritative voice cut him off.

"Yes, Mr. Nacht.” Connor retreated hastily with his head lowered.

However, the figure did not leave at once but sneaked into the kitchen through the back door.

No sooner had Connor taken a few steps than he started to sense something was awry. Instinctively, he turned to look in the direction where the figure showed up moments ago, then the balcony of the master bedroom. “Mr. Nacht is already asleep, isnt he? How did he show up here?” he mumbled to himself.

Right at that instant, Marino, who was also on patrol, made his way toward him. “Connor, what're you doing?”

Connor moved forward hastily. “Marino, guess what happened just now! I happened to see a figure move agilely from one side of the swimming pool. Thinking that it might be an intruder, I went after him at once. But then it turned out to be Mr. Nacht!”

Marino reprimanded, “Have you gone nuts? Mr. Nacht had gone to bed hours ago. How is it possible for him to appear in the garden?”

“I know it sounds absurd, but I'm certain that I saw him a while ago!” Connor emphasized.

“You must be seeing things!” Marino replied and was about to walk away. Suddenly, he halted in his tracks as a thought occurred to him. “Could it be that someone impersonated Mr. Nacht to sneak into this place? Did you get to see his face?”

Connor shook his head. “No, I only saw his silhouette. But it has to be Mr. Nacht! If that person turns out to be an impostor, I've got to hand it to him. He looked so much like Mr. Nacht!”

Chapter 1464 Waited For A Long Time

"Continue patrolling. I'l head upstairs to take a look.”

Realizing that something was amiss, Marino rushed upstairs to check things out.

The villa was completely silent. Everything seemed normal, but there was an indescribable sense of eeriness looming in the air.

Marino scanned his surroundings warily but did not discover anything, so he rushed upstairs and lightly knocked on Zachary's door.

Ben opened the door and asked, “What's going on?”

“Ben, where's Mr. Nacht?” asked Marino.

"He fell asleep.” Ben asked softly, “What exactly is going on?”

“Has Mr. Nacht been sleeping all this while? He didn't go downstairs?” Marino's eyes widened. “Of course!” Ben frowned.

“That's weird...” Marino became more uneasy. “Connor mentioned that he saw Mr. Nacht in the garden just now. Apparently, Mr. Nacht appeared beside the swimming pool, and he moved agilely...”

"When did that happen?” Ben was utterly confused.

“Just now! Around a few minutes ago.”

Marino peeked into the room. Underneath the dim light, he could vaguely see Zachary lying on the bed and sleeping soundly.

"How is that possible?” questioned Ben softly. “Mr. Nacht returned to the room at eleven tonight and has been asleep all along. How can he possibly appear in the garden?”

“I find it weird too.” Marino asked anxiously, “Do you think that someone has sneaked in here?” “Turn on the lights and search the place,” instructed Ben. “I'll inform Bruce to send our men back here.”

“Okay.” Marino was about to turn on the lights, and Ben was about to make the call when a loud crash sounded downstairs.

An explosion suddenly erupted in the kitchen, sending random objects flying everywhere. Not only was the sound deafening, but it also caused the entire villa to tremble vigorously.

At the same time, a blazing fire spread out from the kitchen, flaring in all directions and engulfing the dining room and living room rapidly.

“Alert everyone! Now!” Ben ordered at once.

"Yes!" Marino immediately dashed downstairs to gather everyone.

When Ben returned to the room, Zachary was already awakened by the explosion outside. “Leave with the kids first,” he quickly instructed.

"What about you, Mr. Nacht?”

“Go now!" urged Zachary.

"Okay." Ben headed out to look for Robbie, Jamie, and Ellie.

Meanwhile, all the maids and bodyguards in the house were jolted awake. Screaming in fear, they fled in all directions.

Thrown into shock, Robbie and Jamie ran out of the room, shouting, “Daddy, Mommy!"

“Robbie, Jamie, follow me quickly.” Ben grabbed the two children anxiously. “Where's Ellie?” “She's in her room.” Jamie pointed at Ellie's room

“Connor!” Ben yelled out to Connor, who was downstairs. “Bring Mr. Robinson and Mr. Jamison down!"

"Yes!" Connor rushed upstairs and took Robbie and Jamie away.

"Where's Daddy?" asked Robbie worriedly.

"Don’t worry. I'll save him after picking Ellie up.”

With that, Ben went to look for Ellie.

Meanwhile, Zachary dragged his frail body out of bed. After putting on a coat, he was about to leave when a figure suddenly strolled the room.

"Who's that?” Alerted by the unexpected guest, he turned his head around and immediately felt a shiver run down his spine. “Who are you?”

“I'm flattered to see that you're shocked.” Shrouded by the darkness, the person approached him gradually. A wicked grin was playing on his lips as he said, “Looks like my plastic surgery is so effective that I almost look like the real deal.”

“It's you?" Zachary's eyes popped in shock.

"You recognize me, huh?” The person smiled eerily. “Did you think that I've died and is no longer a threat to you?”

“You are the one behind the explosion?” Zachary went straight to the point. “What are you trying to do?”

"Of course, I'm here to retrieve everything I've lost!” The person whipped out a gun and pointed it at him. “Since we used to be family, I'll make this quick for you!”

"Have you lost your mind?" Zachary yelled furiously. “Do you know what you are doing?”

"When you destroyed my family and caused me to suffer endless humiliation, did you ask yourself that question?” A look of intense hatred glinted in the person's eyes. “Zachary, I've waited for this day for a long time..."

Chapter 1465 Francesca

Immediately after the person spoke, he pulled the trigger and was prepared to shoot.

At that moment, Ben barged in with Ellie. “Mr. Nacht!”

When he opened the door and saw a silhouette that looked identical to Zachary, he froze. Ellie, too, stared at the person in disbelief.

However, Ben was quickly brought to his senses and rushed forward to snatch the gun away.

Just as he moved, he was shot.

"Ah!" Fear-stricken, Ellie screamed and dropped her plushie onto the ground.

“Shh...” The mysterious man shushed her before aiming his gun at Zachary. “Die, Zachary!”

At that instant, Zachary mustered the last ounce of his strength and grabbed the man’s hand. While he grappled with the man, he yelled, “Run, Ellie!”

Ellie's legs were trembling. Rooted to the ground, she could not move at all.

However, Little Fifi kept squawking beside her ear and repeating what Zachary had said, “Run, Ellie! Run, Ellie!”

Only then did Ellie return to her senses and sprint out hurriedly.

By then, the entire place was already surrounded by flames. As soon as she ran out of the room, she bumped into a few masked men. While she screamed in terror, those men attempted to capture her. At that juncture, Fifi flew in from the window and circled the masked men, driving them away from capturing Ellie.

Under Little Fifi's lead, Ellie ran down the spiral staircase.

However, no sooner had she taken a few steps down the staircase than a masked man dashed forward and grabbed her from behind. Having lost her footing, the little girl tumbled down the stairs.

Meanwhile, in the room, the mysterious man had pinned Zachary against the table. Pressing the gun against the latter's head, he yelled through gritted teeth, “Do you think you can still fight me? Let me tell you this! Everyone here will die tonight! Your wife and assets will all be mine; even your children will have to call me their father. I'll replace you and become the new Mr. Nacht! Go to blazes, Zachary Nacht!”

He pulled the trigger and was about to shoot when a silver needle came flying in. It pricked his neck, causing him to shudder. Before he could react, his body became numb gradually.

A petite figure flipped in through the windows and said in annoyance, “I hate people who only rely on sneak attacks! If you're truly capable, you should confront others openly!”

The newcomer was fully clothed from top to bottom, wrapped in a green cape that revealed only a pair of bright eyes. A green snake wrapped itself around her wrist, glowing eerily in the dark. "You..." The mysterious man wanted to aim the gun at the intruder but could not raise his hand. Clutching his neck, he could feel his body stiffening gradually.

"What about me?” The petite person yelled furiously, “I'm here to look for my babies. Now that you've burned this house, where can I find them?”

Instead of responding, the mysterious man pressed the alarm in his hand.

Soon, a few masked men barged in.

"You sly bastard!”

Infuriated, the petite person immediately whipped out a red smoke bomb and threw it downward. The instant it came into contact with the ground, sparks flew, followed by an anesthetic gas.

The masked men covered their noses, not daring to move forward anymore.

Just when the petite person was about to leave through the window, she spotted Zachary lying on the ground. It seemed like he was on the verge of passing out.

Frowning, she mumbled to herself, “Francesca, don't be nosy. Don't be nosy. Don't be nosy!" Hardening her heart, she was about to leave when she accidentally spotted a photo frame beside Zachary.

In the photo, Zachary and Charlotte were running in the forest hand-in-hand. Charlotte was holding her three children’s hands while Alpha, Beta, and Gamma were sitting on Zachary's shoulders.

The triplets were hugging Zachary's head with wide grins on their faces. When the man gazed at them, his eyes were filled with affection and tenderness.

Francesca's gaze changed immediately. Without missing a beat, she helped Zachary up, flipped out of the window with him, and escaped.

Chapter 1466 Burned To Ashes

Southridge was in utter chaos. When the news arrived at Northridge, Charlotte and her subordinates rushed over to save everyone.

However, the entire villa in Southridge was already engulfed in flames. All that remained of the elaborately decorated wedding venue was nothing but ashes.

"How did this happen?”

Horrified by the scene before her eyes, Charlotte could barely stand straight.

She charged forward like a madwoman, but Bruce and the rest held her back. “Ms. Lindberg, you can't enter now. The fire fighting equipment will arrive soon.”

“Let go of me!” Struggling to break free, Charlotte screamed agitatedly, “Hubby! Robbie! Jamie! Ellie!”

“Mommy, we're here.”

With Hanna escorting them, Robbie and Jamie ran over, both wrapped in a blanket. Trembling, they said through sobs, “Daddy and Ellie are still inside. Mr. Ben, Fifi, and Little Fifi are there too...” “Robbie, Jamie!" Charlotte hugged them tightly. “Don’t be afraid. They'll be fine! I'll save them now.” Having said that, she charged in without hesitation.

“The protective suits are here!” Bruce and the rest immediately put them on.

“Where's Marino? Did anyone see Marino?” asked Morgan anxiously.

“Marino went in to save the rest.”

“Did he wear the suit?”

“No... There was no time."

“I'm going in to save him.”

In the house, Marino was searching everywhere amid the flames. Finally, he spotted Ellie and Fifi on the staircase.

Fifi suffered grievous injuries from shielding Ellie underneath its wings.

Marino immediately carried Ellie and Fifi. While he was dashing out, a railing fell and crashed onto him.

At the most critical moment, he protected Ellie and Fifi in his arms and tried his best to free himself from the railing. Dragging his injured leg behind him, he crawled out.

However, the fire became even more intense. There were no paths ahead of him, and his surroundings were filled with smoke.

Marino could barely catch his breath. His strength, too, was slowly depleting.

Just when he was about to lose all hope, he suddenly heard Morgan's voice. “Marino! Ellie!”

With much difficulty, Marino raised his head and glanced over. Morgan rushed in with a few others and saved Marino, Fifi, and Ellie.

Meanwhile, Charlotte, Bruce, and Lupine dashed upstairs with fireproof blankets over them.

They found Ben lying unconsciously on the floor after being shot but did not spot Zachary anywhere.

Bruce instructed Lupine and Charlotte to leave with Ben first, but Charlotte refused to give up. She frantically looked for Zachary amidst the raging flames.

I can't lose Zachary like this. I can't! We're supposed to get married today. I was about to become his wife! My bridal gown has already been prepared. How could this happen...

"Hubby! Hubby! Zachary, come out! Come out!”

While searching everywhere, she cried out agitatedly.

Yet, not a single response could be heard.

After taking in too much of the toxic smoke, her voice soon became so hoarse that she could not utter a single sound.

The flames burned her hair and hands, but she ignored her injuries and continued to search for Zachary.

Unfortunately, she still could not find him.

Morning arrived three hours later.

The sky rained over Southridge as if heaven was weeping for them.

By the time the police and the firefighters arrived, the fire had already been doused by the rain. When they went into the house to search, they found Little Fifi's corpse underneath the railing of the first floor.

As for Zachary, he remained nowhere to be found.

The investigations revealed that fire was also set off in the main bedroom on the second floor, which was Zachary's room. The fire contained a potent toxin that could burn a human into ashes. Hence, the police deduced that Zachary might have already died, and his corpse had been burned to ashes.

When everyone heard the news, they were stunned for a while before breaking out into tears. Charlotte's legs turned weak. Falling to her knees, she wailed miserably, “No!”

Chapter 1467 The Suspect

Charlotte's cries sounded desolate as if she was protesting against the injustice of fate.

Everyone in the Nacht family were in tears.

Spencer, who had rushed over, fainted as soon as he learned about the news.

Johann fell ill upon hearing the tragedy.

When the guests at Northridge heard about it, they were stupefied.

The happy wedding had turned into a disaster.

Within a night, Southridge was ruined.

Charlotte refused to believe that Zachary was dead. He must still be alive. He must be...

Still clinging onto some hope, she ordered her subordinates to investigate it.

Given the Nacht family’s current situation, someone had to keep the household in order.

No matter how devastated or heartbroken Charlotte was, she had to pull herself together and support the family.

The Nacht family had suffered significant losses from the disaster. Connor perished in the fire, while Little Fifi was burned to death from protecting Ellie.

As for Ben, he had fallen into a deep coma due to inhaling a lot of the toxic smoke after being shot. The doctor said that he did not know when Ben would regain consciousness.

Although Ellie did not get burned under Fifi's protection, she had tumbled down the stairs and injured her head. Combined with the inhalation of the smoke, she was also in a coma.

Everyone in the Nacht family was imbued with sadness, their hearts aching for the tragic disaster. Charlotte had no more strength to weep. Despite her agony, she had to stay strong.

Firstly, she made arrangements for the guests and ordered her subordinate to seal off Southridge. Then, she requested the police to continue searching for Zachary's whereabouts.

At the same time, she instructed Raina to treat Ellie, Ben, and the rest of the wounded to the best of her abilities.

Charlotte firmly believed that since Ben had been in Zachary's bedroom before fainting, he should know where Zachary was and what happened that night.

According to what the surviving bodyguards described, some mysterious masked men intruded Southridge that night. First, they placed an explosive in the kitchen. Once it was ignited, they made use of the chaos and launched a surprise attack.

The only clue Marino provided after he regained consciousness was that Connor spotted someone who looked similar to Zachary before the explosion. That person might be related to the incident. However, the police thought the clue was too vague to be useful.

When Charlotte heard Marino's recount, a figure flashed across her mind. Chris!

Chris was Zara's son and Zachary's cousin.

He had inherited the Nacht family’s genes. His height, physique, and demeanor resembled that of Zachary a lot. In terms of looks, he also bore some resemblance to Zachary.

Ever since what happened to Zara, Chris’ shares and position in Nacht Group had been withdrawn. To restrain Chris, Zachary kept him under some form of control. However, he was merciful to his cousin, allowing the latter to live.

Afterward, Chris left the house and broke off contact with the Nacht family.

Evidently, he was a strong suspect.

Charlotte immediately instructed Bruce to investigate Chris

Bruce passed the orders to his subordinates. At the same time, he also voiced his doubts. “Mr. Broid has been incompetent from a young age. Other than squandering money, he only knows how to toy with women. He's nothing but a frivolous playboy, so I doubt he’s capable or smart enough to do all these.”

"We can't be too sure.” Charlotte frowned. “Since his life was turned upside down, his personality might change drastically. In the past, he was incompetent because he had a high social status and wealth without needing to do anything. After Zara died, he had nothing left. Humiliated and mocked by others, he might grow to resent Zachary.”

“You aren't wrong.” Bruce analyzed, “However, Mr. Nacht merely took Chris’ shares in Nacht Group and stripped him of his position. His inheritance from his mother is probably sufficient for him to spend for the rest of his lifetime. It's not true that he has nothing.”

Chapter 1468 Take Charge 1

“You say that because you think that what he has left is enough for him. However, his drop in status is like a fall from heaven to hell. That makes things completely different. Not everyone can handle that sudden change. Furthermore, his mother had committed so many evil deeds. I'm afraid that others from the Nacht family might not be kind to him. Some might even make things difficult for him, humiliate and scorn him. His life used to be smooth-sailing in the past, with people rushing to curry favor with him. When his life took such a drastic turn, he might not be able to handle it. It's possible that his personality would change...”

Charlotte gave a detailed analysis.

“You're right.” Bruce nodded. “However, I still think that he’s not capable enough—"

“Don’t underestimate your opponent,” she exhorted with a frown. “Chris might seem like a frivolous playboy, but he still carries the Nacht family’s genes. This means that he's probably quite smart too. He used to be unmotivated and incompetent because he felt no pressure. However, when one is pushed to the wall, one’s intelligence will return. Isn't that the same case for me too?”

“Um...” Stunned, Bruce quickly said, “Okay, I'll investigate it now.”

Charlotte sighed and got ready to head to the hospital. When she turned around, she discovered Danrique’s triplets standing behind the door. With their heads popped out carefully, they stared at her with restless expressions on their faces.

"What's wrong, Alpha, Beta, and Gamma?” Charlotte took a deep breath. Forcing out a smile, she walked over. “I've been busy lately, so I didn't have time to accompany you. I'm sorry. After I'm done with—"

“Don't be afraid, Aunt Charlotte.” Alpha stretched out her hand and touched Charlotte's face gently. With a cute voice, she consoled Charlotte, “Uncle Zachary and Ellie will definitely get better!”

When Charlotte heard her comforting words, she could no longer hold her tears back.

She had been trying her best to stop herself from crying and remembering all those things, but Alpha’s words made her break down.

“Don't cry, Aunt Charlotte!” Beta wiped the tears away from her cheeks and consoled her anxiously, “We'll look for Daddy and tell him to punish the evil man!”

“No one is allowed to bully you!” Gamma clenched her fists and declared furiously, “We'll protect you, Aunt Charlotte!”

Moved, Charlotte pulled the three kids into her arms.

She thought that they were too young to know anything, but to her surprise, they understood everything that was going on.

They knew that someone had burned Zachary's house down, causing him to go missing, Ellie and Ben to be in a coma, and the handsome Connor to die in the fire.

Hence, they had come to console Charlotte.

Charlotte's tears kept flowing down her cheeks. However, she tried her best to keep her emotions under control. Forcing out a smile again, she said to the kids, “All of you have grown up! You speak so clearly now.”

“Hehe!” As if embarrassed, the triplets scratched their heads and blushed.

“Okay, I'm going to the hospital to visit Mr. Ben and Ellie. Stay at home, and do not wander around, okay?"

Charlotte stroked their faces.

"Okay, Aunt Charlotte.” The kids nodded.

After hugging them, Charlotte wore her coat and left hastily with Lupine and the rest.

The car drove down the hill. Halfway down, they encountered the Gold family’s car.

“Why is she here?”

Lupine frowned, not wanting anyone to stir up any more trouble at such a juncture.

Nancy hurriedly got out of the car, walked over, and knocked on the car window.

Charlotte lowered the car window and gazed at her calmly. “What's the matter, Ms. Gold?”

"What happened? Mr. Nacht, he...” Nancy was panicking. When she mentioned Zachary's name, her voice trembled. “What happened to him?”

Chapter 1469

After a few seconds of silence, Charlotte said calmly, “This is the Nacht family’s matter. You shouldn't bother yourself over this, Ms. Gold.”

“That's enough, Charlotte!" bellowed Nancy. “Can you tell me what happened? Aren't you two supposed to get married? Why was there a fire at Southridge? Why did Mr. Nacht go missing? Why Instead of replying, Charlotte pressed the window switch silently.

“Charlotte, you—"

Nancy rapped on the car window angrily, trying to stop Charlotte. However, the window was already shut.

Ignoring her, Charlotte waved her hand, and the car drove away directly.

“Charlotte Lindberg!” Behind, Nancy stomped her feet in fury.

However, no one paid any heed to her. Charlotte's car was already long gone.

“Ms. Gold is quite love-struck,” remarked Lupine.

“Yeah.” An unfathomable look crept into Charlotte's eyes while she gazed at Nancy through the rearview mirror. “Lupine, do you think that one will become smarter when in agony?”

“Probably.” Lupine stared at Charlotte worriedly. “What's wrong, Ms. Lindberg?”

“Nothing.” Charlotte cast her eyes downward and saw her phone screen flickering. Lucy was calling her. It looks like something is going on in the company. Have those troublemakers appeared already?

Charlotte answered the call without much thought. “Hello?”

“Ms. Lindberg, those at the headquarter requested to have a board meeting immediately. They insisted on seeing Mr. Nacht.”

“What are they trying to do?” Charlotte frowned.

“Mr. Nacht's schedule has been cleared for the past three days, so Mr. Sterk took his place in the board meetings. As there were no updates regarding the wedding, and Mr. Spencer had fallen ill and is still unconscious, those at the headquarter probably realized that something bad had happened to Mr. Nacht. So...”

“Three in the afternoon.” Charlotte glanced at her watch. “I'll attend the board meeting on time.” “All right, I'll relay the message.” Lucy continued, “Also, some important clients have requested to meet Mr. Nacht. About the Gymnasium Project—"

“Let's talk about it when I arrive at the office.” Charlotte frowned. “From today onward, I'll go to the office at three in the afternoon. Schedule the work then, and I'll handle them all at once.” “Understood.”

After hanging up, Charlotte barely had time to catch her breath before Johann called. “Charlotte, when are you free? We need to meet.”

“Mr. Sterk, I have to attend a board meeting at three. I'll arrive half an hour earlier, so shall we meet in Zachary's office?”

"Okay. Take care of yourself. The Nacht family is counting on you.”

“You too! Nacht Group and Divine Corporation depend on you.”

Her utterance hit a nerve in him, and his firm voice suddenly became hoarse and shaky. After a moment of silence, he forced out, “I-1 will!"

When Charlotte heard his response, tears welled up in her eyes. Having said a reply to him, she hung up.

She did not want to cry anymore. If she did, her eyes would become even more swollen. Those in the company might realize that something was amiss if they saw her in such a state.

Hence, she must and have to stay strong to face everything.

Since Zachary's survival was still unknown, the fate of the family and the corporation were in her hands. She must not let him down.

“Ms. Lindberg..."

Lupine hugged Charlotte, her heart aching for her. She yearned to console her but did not know what to say.

In truth, Lupine was devastated as well. Ben was severely injured and was still in the ICU. Despite being his girlfriend, she could not keep him company. That made her feel guilt-ridden.

She had never been superstitious in the past. However, she had begun to pray every day, hoping that heaven would show mercy so that the disaster would end soon and everything would get better.

“Everything will be fine. It will.” Charlotte took a deep breath and reminded herself to pull herself together. “Everything will get better. It definitely will.”

Chapter 1470 Take Charge 3

When they arrived at the hospital, Charlotte brought Lupine to visit Ben in the ICU first.

After three days of emergency treatment, the doctor announced, “The patient is no longer in critical condition. However, since he inhaled a lot of toxic fumes after being shot, his situation is quite dire. It's possible that...”

"What?" asked Lupine anxiously.

“He might never wake up,” continued the doctor with a frown. “We'll need to observe him for a longer period to be certain of his condition.”

Lupine was appalled to hear that, so much so that she staggered to her feet, swaying a little. Charlotte quickly grabbed her and consoled, “Don’t worry, there must be a solution. I've already asked Raina to invite Dr. Wright over. If there's hope for Olivia, there's hope for Ben too.”

The overwhelming sorrow made it impossible for Lupine to say a single word. Hugging Charlotte, she burst into tears.

She had always been much calmer and stronger than Morgan.

However, she could not control her emotions anymore.

She regretted not being nicer to Ben in the past and not spending more time with him. Instead, she kept bullying and ignoring him. Lupine was truly afraid that he would never wake up. In that case, there would be no way for her to make amends to him.

"He'll definitely get better. Trust me!” Charlotte patted her back and reassured her, “I'm here for you. Don't be scared!”

As of then, Charlotte was everyone's pillar of support.

Unfortunately, there was no one for her to rely on.

After visiting Ben, Charlotte went to check on Ellie.

The doctor said Ellie's injuries were not severe, but she sustained a minor concussion from the head injury. He also explained that she had yet to regain consciousness because she was heavily frightened and inhaled too much smoke.

Gazing at Ellie, who was lying on the bed, Charlotte felt her heart aching terribly. Ellie was the weakest among the three children, so she had always been particularly protective of her.

Yet, over the past few years, accidents always befell Ellie.

Firstly, Cynthia poisoned her, then Sharon kidnapped her and held her captive. That time around, she was injured in a fire.

Remorse ate away at Charlotte. She despised herself for failing to protect her child well

“Don't be too worried, Ms. Lindberg. Ellie will be fine,” consoled Raina softly. “From a medical perspective, she's not in critical danger. The biggest reason why she’s still unconscious is that she was too traumatized. She'll be fine two days later.”

"When will Dr. Wright arrive?”

Charlotte had no time or energy to be sad. All she could think of was to deal with the problem at hand.

"She'll arrive tonight,” said Raina. “I've already reached an agreement with her. She'll be staying in H City for the long-term, at least until Ellie and Ben have fully recovered.”

"Okay." Charlotte nodded. Patting Raina's shoulder, she said, “I'll leave everything in the hospital to you. Thanks in advance.”

“It's what I should do.” When Raina spoke, she sounded like she was on the verge of tears. "Although I can't help you with Mr. Nacht, I can still help you with Ben, Ellie, and the rest...”

“Ben's injuries are quite severe. You and Dr. Wright must treat him carefully,” exhorted Charlotte. "Don’t worry,” Raina promised. “Although Ben's situation is quite grave, I think there's still hope. You can just leave this to me and go ahead and deal with the other matters.”

“And Marino...”

“Marino's injuries are only external. There's no need to worry about him.”

“That's good.”

After settling everything in the hospital, Charlotte went to visit Spencer in Garden Villa instead of heading straight to the office.

Ever since Zachary went missing, Spencer fell ill and had been bedridden for a few days.

Although Johann also fell sick, he had forced himself to head to the office the previous day. In comparison, Spencer seemed to be in a worse situation.

Charlotte had the right to helm Divine Corporation, but those in Nacht Group's headquarters were still unconvinced of her abilities. Hence, she needed Spencer to take charge first.

Those troublemakers in the board of directors were all from the headquarters.

Therefore, Charlotte needed to get Spencer to go with her.