Chapter 1004: Visiting the Rooms
Besse and Susan chatted for a while after lunch before returning to their rooms. Even someone as active as Susan slept heavily during her pregnancy; she’d fallen asleep immediately after eating.
Besse was about to nap when Doyle called. He’d seen the news, as had she, and the heated comments didn't bother her anymore.
"I'll come to Northfield tomorrow," Doyle said firmly. "I'll accompany you to court."
"First, handle Karami's internal affairs," Besse cautioned. "I suspect someone is manipulating this plagiarism incident with Phantom."
"You mean someone is deliberately trying to smear Karami?" Doyle exclaimed.
"They're likely using this to suppress Karami's brand," Besse explained calmly. "Karami's recent success has threatened established luxury brands, attracting jealousy and possibly prompting this behind-the-scenes sabotage. Even if Phantom craves fame, she wouldn't be so arrogant without support."
Doyle nodded. "Now that you mention it, it seems likely."
"Don't rush back," Besse advised. "Investigate who's backing Phantom. We can still turn things around after the lawsuit."
"I want to come and keep you company," Doyle said softly.
"I'm fine. I'm with Susan."
"Susan?" Doyle was surprised.
"Yes, she's keeping me company, so I'm safe."
"How did that happen?" Doyle asked curiously.
"Fate, perhaps," Besse replied. "We're friends."
"When I reach Northfield, I'll thank her properly."
"Later. Your priority is stabilizing Karami and uncovering the source of this problem. I can handle my situation."
"Your independence is baffling," Doyle admitted, feeling inexplicably lonely. "Most women would be distraught, but you're calmly strategizing."
"I just don't want malicious people to succeed," Besse said. "I'm not extraordinary; I only fight back when provoked."
Doyle understood Besse's nature: unbothered by most things, but resolute when she cared.
"So, I'm not that independent, and I don't want you to stay away," Besse clarified. "I need your help to avoid suffering."
Doyle promised, "Okay. If you ever need me, don't hesitate. I'll be there, even if it means defying my mother."
"I know," Besse smiled, appreciating his devotion. "I won't be polite."
They chatted further before Besse finally put down her phone. But lying in bed, sleep evaded her. She pondered the mystery of Phantom's backing, suspecting a powerful Karami competitor.
Taking a deep breath, Besse decided to leave it to Doyle; identifying the culprit amongst numerous competitors seemed too daunting.
Unable to sleep, she explored the house. The corridor held four bedrooms; two were empty, overlooked during her initial room selection.
One door revealed a master suite, spacious and inviting. Unlike typical modern designs, warm orange and yellow hues created a cozy elegance. It felt lived-in, dust-free.
A bedside photo was clearly of Hannah; Besse recognized her from online images. Another showed Hannah and Oscar's wedding. Their beauty and talent made them a striking couple.
An inexplicable sense of oppression washed over Besse. She stepped onto the balcony for air.
An ashtray held a cigarette butt, likely overlooked by the maid. It was recent, but predated Hannah's death, suggesting Oscar's occasional visits. Susan's words about Oscar's forced political marriage now seemed plausible.
Feeling like an intruder, Besse didn't linger.
Another door led to a boy's room, decorated in navy blue and white stripes—clearly designed for a young boy. Was it for Salem?
The thought of Salem brought a bittersweet warmth to Besse's heart, remembering his unintentional vulnerability.