Chapter 44: Going to the Todd Mansion
The Todd family mansion was a medieval-style building, a blend of grandeur and vanity. In an era where land prices in Zadsh were exorbitant, all the houses belonged to the Todd family. In the center of the courtyard, a large fountain featured a bronze female statue. As the fountain began playing, a circular water curtain sprayed outward.
The entrance path, paved with cobblestones, was lined with flowers and trees, creating a lush green canopy.
In the car, Layne wore black clothing and handmade cloth shoes with worn soles. His silver hair gave him a scholarly air. Cheyenne frowned. “Grandpa, didn’t I ask you to wear the suit I prepared? Why are you wearing these old clothes and shoes?”
Those shoes were made by his late wife over twenty years ago. The white edges were yellowed, but the black uppers weren't too noticeable.
Layne smiled nonchalantly. “The more low-key we are, the more comfortable the Todd family will be.”
“But Granduncle is here,” Cheyenne pointed out. “Being low-key seems pointless.”
Layne nodded, regarding his granddaughter’s poise and grace. “I’m here to treat his illness; I should be low-key. You, Cheyenne, follow your instincts.”
“Okay.”
The car stopped. Cheyenne helped her grandfather out, facing curious and disdainful stares as they approached the mansion.
At the entrance, Adrian, in a black suit, followed a well-maintained man in his fifties who appeared much younger. Tall and lean, with handsome features and short stubble, he wore a silver-gray handmade suit, an expensive Armani shirt, and a tie with a ruby fishtail clip. His gaze was scrutinizing. He asked skeptically, “Are you sure you didn’t invite the wrong people?”
Adrian replied respectfully, “Please be assured, Master Kai. I’m certain they can do it. If Layne cannot cure Master Iker, no one else can.”
Kai had sought numerous doctors internationally, but none could cure Iker. With renewed hope, he was willing to give Layne and Cheyenne a chance.
“Hello, Mr. Edwards! I’m Kai Todd,” the man said, extending his hand.
Layne shook his hand politely. “Mr. Todd, I’m here to assess the situation. We'll wait until I see your son.”
“Of course.” Kai personally led them into the luxurious hall, showcasing the Todd family's wealth. At the entrance stood a pair of double-eared, half-height, antique blue-and-white porcelain vases.
Inside, a white marble floor gleamed under a Swarovski crystal chandelier. Golden walls and gold-carved murals created an elegant atmosphere. A maid quickly served tea.
“Mr. Edwards, I’m grateful you agreed to see Iker. Let me offer tea instead of wine.” Kai raised his cup in a light toast.
“Mr. Todd, let’s skip the formalities,” Layne replied, taking a sip of tea.
Kai’s gaze shifted to Cheyenne. He was amazed by her beauty.
“Is this Miss Lawrence, your granddaughter?”
Cheyenne sat upright, her long skirt revealing her elegantly crossed legs. “Hello, Mr. Kai, I’m Cheyenne Lawrence.”
“Good.” Kai had attended her wedding to Kelvin Foley years ago. “Miss Lawrence, you’ve become even more beautiful.”
Their conversation was interrupted by the clicking of high heels. Three women entered. The leading woman, in a long red dress, had her curly hair pinned up and wore a string of black pearls. She appeared to be in her forties, with delicate, unremarkable features except for a mole on her chin.
To her left was a woman two years older, plainly dressed in a light purple floral dress and carrying a vintage handbag. To her right was a much younger woman in a white tank top and denim shorts, with long legs and golden blonde hair.
To Cheyenne’s surprise, the young woman ran to Kai, calling him “Darling,” and sitting on his lap. They were a couple! Cheyenne almost choked on her tea, remembering Omari’s information about Kai having four wives. This must be Erica Fields, his youngest wife.
Chapter 45: The Ted! (This appears to be an error or a title needing correction.)