Chapter 617

Lily looked around and asked, "What do you want?"

These people clearly had been instructed. They simply surrounded them, making no further move. Edward stood guard, poised to attack. "You're not Lodge family members. What are you doing on Lodge property?" Lily, noticing they weren't family, reprimanded them.

A man's voice called from within the house. A figure emerged, and the others parted to let him pass. It was a familiar face, though lined with age. A prominent knife scar marred his left cheek; his black hair was thinning, revealing a balding pate. Despite the changes, Lily recognized Henry. "Uncle," she said.

Henry chuckled. "Good. You still remember me. At least the Lodge family's upbringing wasn't wasted."

Lily would have been surprised to see him, expecting a mournful return, had Alexander not informed her en route. His appearance was far from accidental. "Uncle, you've been gone for years. Today's my grandfather's funeral. What are you doing? Do you intend to use force?" She eyed the group; none were weak.

"I don't want force, but Father's death was suspicious, and we need answers. Lily, your grandfather raised and treated you well. He was strict, but that's no excuse for murder," he said, his voice laced with emotion.

His tone was initially casual, but he ended with a sharp, judging glance. No, he wasn't judging; he'd already condemned her.

"Uncle, I don't understand. How can I be accused when I did nothing? Even prisoners have the right to appeal. I agree his death was strange. If we have doubts, we should report it to the police and request an investigation."

He should report it, find the true culprit, and let forensics examine Wilfred's death if it truly was suspicious. Did he think he could convict her with mere words? He could dream on.

"Report it to the police?" Henry sneered. "What a joke! Consider the Lodge family's status. Would police intervention be appropriate? Do you think I don't know your plan? You've likely bribed them. It matters not; I've engaged Dr. Rollins for the examination. Lily… stop making excuses!"

Dr. Rollins, the Lodge family physician, oversaw their physical examinations and healthcare. His exact words remained unknown.

"You suspect foul play, yet you didn't call the police or investigate. Instead, you blame me," Lily countered, her eyes icy. "Uncle, you've been gone for years, and this is your grand welcome-home gift?"

Henry nodded. "Yes, I hadn't expected you to become so ruthless in my absence."