Chapter 288

Debra saw Charlie’s shock. “She’s not married yet,” she repeated, knowing he still clung to Claire.

His eyes widened. He choked, “W-why?”

Debra sighed, ushering him inside. She handed him a file. He scanned it, then stared blankly. “The sole heir of Jones Group? Claire? It’s impossible!”

Debra understood. “Her identity is complicated. What if her family is unreachable? They’re desperate for her to marry, but she refuses. Maybe… maybe there’s still a place for you in her heart.” She patted his head. “Chuck, there might be a chance. Marrying her might be a long shot, but marrying into her family…”

“If that fails,” Debra continued, “the Carters offer a ten-year warranty. No returns, but we’re not to be trifled with.”

Charlie’s mind reeled. Is she really my mother? Debra’s teasing lightened his despair.

Alone, Charlie reviewed the file, then searched for Jones Group online. No pictures of Claire. The information was accurate. Is she really the heir? He paced, a frantic energy seizing him. She’s not married. Could there still be a chance?

Years of acting couldn’t mask his emotions. He collapsed onto his bed, laughing hysterically, then dissolving into tears. Finally, calm returned. I’ll ask her, no matter what.

He booked a flight—departure in two hours. He packed a few clothes, told his family, and left. They understood. But Claire, Kelly now, wasn't easily accessible.

Stacey alerted Hayden. Hayden sent Charlie a message. Upon landing, Charlie checked the file. Claire’s photo—mature, serious, a far cry from the sweet girl he remembered. A silly smile touched his lips. He ignored other notifications. He was going to Jones Group.

Yowhayton’s capital city was enormous. Forty minutes later, he stood before Jones Group’s imposing gates. The security guard stopped him. Charlie struggled with the local dialect, panic rising. What do I do?

Back at Hoggard Villa, Hayden fretted. Charlie hadn’t responded. After an hour, he called.

At the Jones Group gates, Charlie’s phone rang. Irritated, he answered. It was Hayden. He understood—the Hoggard family’s help had been crucial in uncovering Claire’s identity. His impatience vanished.