Hamilton and Murray exchanged a heavy, complicated look. Thaddeus immediately sensed that whatever they were about to reveal was massive. "Thaddeus, this first document is the transfer agreement for all my assets and shares," Hamilton began slowly. "I've already signed it. Everything I own is yours. My will is finalized. The lawyers, Murray, and my private doctor were all present to make it legally binding. No one can contest it." "Grandpa..." Thaddeus felt a sharp pang in his chest. "I can't control the shares your father holds. But my shares, combined with Ilana's, will be enough for you to face off against your brother in a final showdown. However, transferring shares requires the board's approval." Hamilton lowered his eyes and pushed the second file forward. "That's where this comes in." Thaddeus hesitated before picking up the file from the coffee table. He opened it and scanned the pages. Seconds later, his eyes widened in shock, and he bolted up from the sofa. "This is...!" "I should have given this to you a long time ago. If I had, things wouldn't have deteriorated to this point. The Abernathy Group wouldn't have fallen into his hands." Hamilton bowed his head, burdened by guilt. "It's all my fault. I couldn't bring myself to be harsh with Chad. I raised him. He lost his mother so young, survived that kidnapping, and was left with ruined health. I always felt bad for him. I felt like I owed him. I never realized my tolerance was just enabling a monster!" Thaddeus recovered from the initial shock and shook his head. "Grandpa, don't say that. It's not your fault." Chad had chosen the darkness himself. He walked down that point of no return voluntarily. Murray chimed in softly. "He's right, Mr. Abernathy. You were just acting out of love for your grandson. You did nothing wrong." "How can you say I did nothing wrong? I was completely wrong! I knew what kind of person he was. I knew he was cruel and ruthless even as a child. Instead of correcting him and making him face the consequences, I covered up his messes. I spent years doing his dirty work! My sins are just as unforgivable!" Hamilton broke into a painful coughing fit. Thaddeus rushed to his side to soothe him, while Murray quickly handed him a glass of warm water. "Thaddeus... I'm old. Your brother is growing too powerful, and he's completely out of control. I can't help you fight him anymore. You have to walk the rest of this path on your own." Tears welled in Hamilton's eyes as he gripped Thaddeus's hand. "I'm sorry, Thaddeus. I was a foolish old man. I'm so sorry." Thaddeus choked up, his eyes turning red as he simply shook his head. That evening, Murray walked Thaddeus to the door. "Wait a moment, please." Thaddeus stopped. "Is there something else, Murray?" Murray stepped closer and spoke in a hushed tone. "There is one more thing. Your grandfather wasn't ready to tell you this, but I think the time has come." Murray took a deep breath. When he looked up again, all hesitation was gone. His gaze was resolute. "I know about this because I was an accomplice to it." Thaddeus's mind raced, connecting the dots instantly. "Are you talking about the murder case involving Chad? At the signing banquet, a man disguised as a waiter tried to assassinate Chad. He almost hurt Evadne in the process. He screamed that Chad was a murderer. Is that what this is about?"

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