Chapter 1687

Standing at the living room's main door, Dominic watched the sunset. The peaceful moment was shattered by hurried footsteps. Elijah, supporting his father with one hand, rushed in, his face etched with anxiety. Michelle, in high heels, also hurried in, greeting Dominic curtly without looking up.

"Stop!" Dominic commanded, his voice deep.

Michelle stopped abruptly, embarrassment evident. "Uncle Dom, I'm anxious to see Austin. I apologize for my lack of manners!"

"You can't see him now," Dominic replied. Pausing, he looked at the father and son. "Neither of you can go in."

"Why not?!" Elijah exclaimed. "Uncle Dom, you called us to pick him up. Why can't we see him now?"

"There's a change in the situation," Dominic said slowly. He clapped his hands, and a servant appeared with masks and gloves.

Michelle, holding a mask, looked quizzical. "This...?"

"I'm sure you know about the widespread plague," Dominic replied lightly.

Despite Elijah's objections, he didn't dare contradict Dominic. The trio donned masks and gloves before heading upstairs. Dominic stopped them again.

"What is it now?" Elijah's patience frayed. "Uncle Dom, I'm eager to see my son. Why are you making things so difficult?"

He immediately regretted his words, standing speechless, shame evident on his face.

"Making things difficult?" Dominic glanced at him, a cold snort escaping his lips. "Who do you think you are that I'd deliberately make things difficult for you?!"

Daniel quickly interjected, "He's always been impatient and speaks before thinking. That wasn't his intention. Austin's been missing for days; his anxiety about Austin's sudden return is understandable."

Dominic clasped his hands behind his back, rubbing them gently. "Since you're so impatient, take him. But don't blame me for not warning you. Taking him away is easy; sending him back won't be."

"Huh?" Daniel asked, confused. "Dom, what do you mean?"

"Don't you want to see him?" Dominic gestured upstairs. "Go on, then!"

The couple exchanged glances before looking at their father. Despite Daniel's reservations, his longing for his grandson won out. "Let's go!" he said, and the trio hurried upstairs. Michelle, eager, pushed open the unlocked door.