Chapter 256

Thea remained unaware of the events unfolding in the Rowland family after her departure. She sat in Nicolas's car, the image of the floating lights flashing before her eyes until she finally understood the situation. "Mr. Hendrix," she said, "thank you for today."

Regardless, Nicolas had undeniably rushed to her defense and saved her from the river. Had he not shielded her in the water, she might have perished. Yet, whenever she encountered Nicolas's cold demeanor, painful memories resurfaced. As long as Stephanie lived, Thea would never forget her miscarriage, and her relationship with Nicolas would remain irreparably damaged.

Nicolas sensed the coldness and distance in her words. He knew she couldn't accept Oliver. "Thea," he began, "I came to see you today not only because I feared the Rowland family would harm you, but also because I wanted"

His words were cut short by an urgent phone call. Darwin, a perceptive man, knew Nicolas was with Thea and wouldn't interrupt unless absolutely necessary. "Mr. Nicolas," he said, "could you return? Mr. Hendrix… the doctor says his condition is critical."

Darwin's words were tactful. Seeing Stefan's twitching, partially paralyzed body, he hadn't dared to act independently. Nicolas's heart lurched. Stefan, his adoptive father and sole remaining family, had raised him, fulfilling both parental roles. If Stefan died, Nicolas vowed to kill Jepson and Jake.

After hanging up, Thea sensed Nicolas's sudden shift in mood. "Nicolas," she asked, "what happened to Stefan?"

"Jepson angered him," Nicolas replied, gripping the steering wheel, a murderous aura radiating from him. "Thea, return to the villa. I'll contact you after I deal with this at Sunnyend Manor." But Thea refused. "Take me with you. Dad has been kind to me. Regardless of our relationship, I can care for him."

Nicolas was moved. He accelerated. On the way to Sunnyend Manor, he considered all possibilities. He couldn't allow anything to happen to Stefan.

Before they exited the car, a hysterical roar pierced the air. "I'm Jepson's wife! Are you blind? How dare you stop me?"

Simone Hendrix, her usual composure shattered, was beside herself with rage. She couldn't comprehend what had happened. Jepson and Jake had left that morning in high spirits, but since arriving at Stefan's, there had been no news. Finally, that night, Simone lost patience and came to investigate. Seeing Nicolas and Thea exiting the car together, she was stunned. "Nicolas," she shrieked, "did you imprison my husband and son? Illegal imprisonment carries jail time! I urge you to release them immediately!"

Her irrational outburst was no match for Nicolas's resolve. While she railed, he summoned someone. "Take her away. Since you miss your family so much, I'll ensure you're reunited with them."

Thea remained unaware of the day's events at the Hendrix family home. However, Nicolas's cold expression and the tense atmosphere spoke volumes.

"Mr. Hendrix!" Darwin exclaimed upon seeing them, seizing upon a lifeline. "You're finally here! Mr. Hendrix is asking for you."

He stepped aside, revealing a scene that froze Nicolas and Thea's blood. Doctors surrounded Stefan, whose hand gestured wildly; he drooled while occasionally calling out Nicolas's name. He always cherished Nicolas above all else.

Nicolas, accustomed to seeing Stefan at his strongest, was unprepared for this sight. He rushed to his side. "Dad, I'm here." It was the first time Thea heard warmth in Nicolas's voice.

"It's good you're both back!" Stefan gasped, too weak to hold Nicolas's hand. "I've lived a full life. I only have two things to say." Thea rushed forward. "Dad, don't talk nonsense. You're just sick; you'll recover. Lose your fighting spirit, and I'll be angry!"

Nicolas remained silent, deeply affected by Stefan's condition. Though his body was contorted, Stefan's eyes seemed to pierce through everything. "I know my own body," he whispered. "Nicolas, let your brother and Jake go…"

In this moment, Nicolas would grant Stefan any request. Stefan sighed. "My greatest regret is never explaining the truth to your mother. I don't want that to happen to you. Your mother and I want to see our grandchild."

Thea couldn't comprehend Stefan's words, believing it was a consequence of his illness. "The doctors are here," she said. "Saying this again will embarrass them… I still want you to help us raise our children."

Stefan's spirits lifted. "Yes," he said, his eyes brightening, "I must get better to watch our grandchildren grow up for Rowena's sake." Nicolas's heart ached. If Father knew he once had a grandchild, who died before birth, would he be even angrier? He wouldn't mention it now.

He watched intently as the doctors worked, nearly losing control as Stefan closed his eyes. Thankfully, the machines showed his heart still beating.

"Mr. Hendrix," the doctor announced, "Mr. Stefan Hendrix's vital signs have stabilized. However, he needs constant care. And Mr. Hendrix must not be angered again; you must indulge his whims." The former was manageable; the latter, far less so.

After dismissing the doctors, Nicolas saw Thea gently wiping Stefan's brow. Her actions were tender and graceful, enhancing her beauty. Nicolas's heart stirred. "Thea," he said, "let's have a child. You've seen Dad's condition. A grandchild is his greatest hope. I don't want him to leave this world without holding his grandchild." He voiced his deepest desire.