Ever since that day Thaddeus collapsed unexpectedly at the hospital, he’d been running on empty for three days straight. His energy was shot; he looked hollowed out and run-down.
During the company’s morning board meeting, he’d actually zoned out in front of everyone—at one point, he nearly nodded off at the table. As for the evening social events and business dinners, he canceled them all, choosing instead to head straight back to Windermere Estate, always with Gordon trailing close behind.
Gordon’s anxiety was written all over his face. “Mr. Thaddeus, you really don’t look well. Shouldn’t you see a doctor?”
“Who would I even go to?”
Thaddeus felt sluggish, his head pounding and his body chilled, a dull ache radiating through him. “Dr. Bright’s disappeared. Who else could possibly help me?”
Gordon sighed, sounding like a worried old father. “But if you keep ignoring this and things get worse, what then? After today’s meeting, the other executives were whispering behind your back. The rumors are already starting… if word gets out—”
“I’m not sick.”
Thaddeus’s voice was rough, his jaw clenched as he forced down the wave of discomfort. “I know my own body better than anyone.”
Gordon just bowed his head, frustration written in every line of his posture. These days, Mr. Thaddeus wouldn’t listen to reason at all. He was more stubborn—and more withdrawn—than ever.
Inside the living room, Chad and Frederic sat side by side on the couch, father and son sipping tea and sharing a warm, easy laugh. The atmosphere was light and harmonious.
“Thaddeus, you’re home,” Chad greeted him with a nod and a gentle smile.
“Dad. Big brother.” Thaddeus’s expression was cool, but exhaustion flickered in his eyes.
He’d been through military academy, put his body and mind through hell, suffered every kind of injury for Ilana over the years. He’d always toughed it out, never once letting himself slip into this kind of malaise.
Still, Sir had warned her not to rush things.
Especially with someone like Thaddeus—stubborn as stone, impossible to sway. With him, you had to be patient and strategic, guiding him step by step.
“Thaddeus, if you’re not well, you need to see a doctor. Don’t ignore your health—letting it drag on could make things worse,” Frederic said, his concern laced with authority. “You’re the CEO of Abernathy Group. If something were to happen to you, the entire company would be at risk. You must never forget that.”
He paused, his expression softening just a little. “But I am glad you finally came to your senses and broke away from that Ashbourne girl’s influence. My sons are all born leaders—being led around by some little Ashbourne upstart is beneath us. Where’s your pride?”
“Dad, if there’s nothing else, I’m going upstairs,” Thaddeus said, his brows drawn tight with frustration as he turned to leave.
“Mr. Thaddeus,” Alexia called after him, her voice earnest. “Lately, have you been feeling lightheaded? Weak in your arms and legs? And sometimes, maybe even a chill running through your whole body?”

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