Chapter 92

Marissa watched Dominick call the Beaumont family from the car. Taisley’s name echoed in her mind. What kind of hold do you have on him? she wondered. He’s risking the Beaumonts to get rid of Nathaniel?

Her phone buzzed. "Mr. Hamen," she answered, her voice professional. After the call, she told Dominick, "Mr. Hansen's at Harrowfell."

Paul was already in the examination room. The hallway outside overflowed with Vanderbilts—a sea of high society, tiptoeing past the hushed medical staff.

"Dad, how's Grandpa?" Dominick asked Reginald.

Reginald sighed. "It's not good."

"How fast did this happen?" Marissa asked, anxiety etched on her face.

Lauren’s voice was gentle. "Paul's health declined for years. He was in and out of the hospital, but didn't want to worry you."

Kayla’s eyes welled. "Why didn't he tell us?"

Marissa, holding Hayla and Lauren, reassured them. "Mr. Hansen's here. He'll be fine."

Lauren squeezed Marissa’s hand. "Thank you."

Reginald added, "You must have pulled strings to get him here."

Marissa smiled. "Grandpa Paul practically raised me. It's the least I could do."

Lauren frowned at Marissa’s dark circles. "You're exhausted. Sit down. You haven't been sleeping."

Marissa’s composure faltered. "I'm fine," she said, turning to the crowd. "Let me see if anyone needs anything."

Marissa effortlessly charmed the Vanderbilts, her closeness to them leading many to assume she was Dominick’s future wife. Their manners suddenly became impeccable.

The treatment room doors opened. Paul, pale and still, was wheeled out, followed by medical staff, Jonathan Walsh, and Charles Hansen, the specialist Marissa had secured.

Reginald rushed forward. "How's my father?"

The crowd pressed closer.

Jonathan said gravely, "Let's talk in the room." He looked surreal; days ago, Paul had been in his office, sharing coffee.

In the room, Jonathan didn't mince words. "It's not good."

"Mr. Hansen, isn't there anything you can do?" Marissa asked, her voice filled with respect.

Charles shook his head. "Even with the best treatment, a few months at most."

The news hit them hard. Dominick’s face tightened, his eyes glistening. Paul had been his hero.

Kayla sobbed in Marissa’s arms. "Grandpa…"

Charles’ voice cut through the silence. "If my mentor were still here, he might give Mr. Vanderbilt a few more years."