Chapter 40

Hubert reprimanded Rooney, his face flushed and voice raised. Rooney trembled, quickly closing her mouth, realizing she'd almost spoken out of turn. Helena glared disapprovingly at her mother; everything else about her mother was admirable, except her lack of a filter. They had successfully concealed her grandfather's critical condition, only to have it raised again. If Grandpa regained his memory, would their family remain safe?

Hubert cautiously observed Herman, sighing in relief when he saw his father pinching his nose in distress. Lauren smiled faintly. "Dad," she said, "you heard everything, right? You were critically ill, admitted to Jonford Hospital. Mr. Dean even called in Doctor Tanner, but they couldn't cure you. Nash did."

Hubert angrily interjected, "Lauren, stop spreading nonsense!"

Harrison retorted coldly, "Who's spreading nonsense about the truth?"

"Enough!" Herman roared, silencing both families instantly. He looked coldly at his sons. "Now is not the time to discuss my illness." His imposing presence silenced everyone.

Turning to Jupiter, Herman said, "Chief Holt, I need you to thoroughly investigate the culprit tonight. Tomorrow, I'll upgrade the Lewis estate's security."

Jupiter nodded. "Rest assured, Mr. Lewis. We'll investigate overnight."

Herman stood, addressing both families. "You all have work tomorrow. Get some rest."

Nash returned to the ground floor, avoiding cameras, and entered his apartment unit, moving like a gecko along the wall. After freshening up, he slipped into Hera's bed. The soft blanket felt comfortable. He retrieved his smartphone, finding a message from Hera:

[There was a shooting! It was terrifying. I wish you were here!] [Did you give Mr. Lewis the medicine?]

Nash replied quickly; three seconds later, Hera responded:

[I bought it, and Mom's contacting Maria. Why are you up so late?] [I had a nightmare!] [Scared? Come here, I'll hug you!]

Her earlier panic forgotten, Hera smiled.

[What's a grown man afraid of? Go to sleep!] [Heh, typical. Goodnight!]

Hera sleepily put down her phone.

Herman sat on his bed, searching his contacts unsuccessfully for Mr. Dean's number. Harrison had mentioned Mr. Dean was an old comrade; surely he'd have his number? He found Mr. Zoel's number instead. After some thought, he called.

"Mr. Lewis!"

"Mr. Zoel, was I terminally ill with cancer?"

"No..." Adam replied immediately.

Herman's eyes flickered. "Please get Mr. Dean's number from Jonford Hospital."

In his apartment, Adam sat up. "Okay, Mr. Lewis. Please wait..." He picked up his tablet, then paused, noticing Helena's WhatsApp profile.

[Ms. Lewis, Mr. Herman needs Mr. Dean's number...] [Let him know. We've already contacted the hospital.]