Chapter 150

Hayden’s sprawling Epean-style mansion loomed, a breathtaking contrast to the company’s modest offices. A vast lawn stretched before it, serene and inviting.

As the Hoggard Technologies team approached, their steps slowed, a respectful hush falling over them. Jeremy, however, bounced on his heels, clutching Becky’s hand.

Butler Joshua Oswald emerged, bowing deeply. “Welcome back, Mr. Hoggard, Jeremy.”

Hayden hummed acknowledgement. “Endorsement video. Oswald, coordinate with the team. Finalized plan by three. We start filming then.”

Joshua nodded, then hesitated, his eyes widening. He quickly recovered, nodding firmly. “Understood, sir.”

Hayden turned to his staff. “Follow Mr. Oswald. Three p.m., sharp.”

Stacey checked her phone. 11:30 a.m. Three and a half hours.

Daniel from planning let out a relieved sigh. “Three hours! We’ve got this.”

Jeremy scribbled on his tablet, then showed it to Daniel: [I want to join. Let’s shoot together.]

Daniel froze, glancing nervously at Hayden. Hayden’s brows furrowed. What’s that brat up to now?

Joshua, having discreetly read the message, informed Hayden, “Mr. Hoggard, Jeremy wishes to participate in the filming.”

Stacey stared, speechless, as Jeremy eagerly awaited Hayden’s response.

“You can’t act,” Hayden said, a disapproving scowl creasing his face.

Jeremy furiously scribbled on his tablet, then held it high: [I can!]

Hayden met Jeremy’s unwavering gaze. A moment stretched, then Hayden conceded. “Let him join.”

A stunned silence descended.

“Right away, Mr. Hoggard,” Daniel agreed quickly.

Stacey found herself captivated by Jeremy’s determination. She waved; his face lit up. He rushed to her, tablet in hand.

Stacey crouched, impulsively kissing his cheek. “How can you be so cute?”

Jeremy stiffened. Aunt Becky kissed me!

Joshua’s curiosity piqued. Hayden watched, a flicker of surprise in his dark eyes. Becky’s quite taken with Jeremy, huh?

Jeremy, entranced, clung to Stacey’s hand, leading her into the mansion. Hayden followed, a casual air about him.

The lavish living room stole Stacey’s breath. Absolutely breathtaking!

The Hoggard Technologies employees gasped, whispering in awe. Mr. Hoggard’s home! Like royalty!

Jeremy led Stacey upstairs, returning moments later with a worn wooden duck. Stacey examined it curiously. Why would Jeremy…?

Hayden approached. “Your favorite childhood toy. Even has your teeth marks.”

Stacey’s eyes widened. “My… toys… in your house?”

“You used to visit when you were little. Remember? Grandpa made it for me, but you always fought over it. You even broke it.”

Stacey’s hand trembled. “I didn’t!”

Hayden shrugged. “Believe what you will.”

“Lunch?” Hayden offered. “Ask Joshua.”

Stacey shook her head, still reeling. Jeremy scribbled on his tablet: [Meat].

Stacey saw it. Jeremy’s spelling was surprisingly clear. What’s this strange unease…?

“Grandma told him stories of your childhood,” Hayden explained.

Hayden remained silent about his ex-wife, Melissa, who’d tricked him into marriage and then left him. Melissa often regretted not staying, believing it might have spared Hayden betrayal and Jeremy a motherless childhood. Jeremy, as a result, always saw Stacey as a potential mother figure – a constant presence in his life.