Chapter 583

Alexander wasn't sure what was happening. "I've lived here for many years," Harry reflected, "but in the past few years, I've regretted building such a large estate."

He wasn't using a wheelchair today; he carried a walking stick. Though he wasn't walking quickly, he began panting after a short while. He looked ten years older than Alexander, despite being younger.

Alexander's heart ached. Harry had been a handsome, impulsive young man—it seemed like only yesterday. During their video calls, Alexander hadn't felt the same sadness that washed over him now, face-to-face. They had all aged.

"It's alright," Harry said. "The only problem is the emptiness. It makes the place seem bigger than it is. The scenery is excellent."

Skylar subtly surveyed her surroundings. When they'd first met Harry, Alexander had only introduced her as an employee, so she'd been largely ignored, allowing her to discreetly observe the mansion's interior and its many antiques.

Despite his limited staff, Harry had a sophisticated security system and guards on duty. The people of Liberty County were honest; no one dared to trespass. Skylar recognized Harry as a serious collector.

Her gaze settled on a small, phoenix-shaped porcelain figurine. It was clearly antique, not modern, and easily overlooked among the mansion's vast collection.

"It's just a small figurine," Harry said kindly, noticing her attention. "If you like it, you can have it."

It wasn't valuable—cheap, even, as a gift. But if Skylar liked it, its worth would far exceed its monetary value.

Alexander immediately looked at the figurine, then at Skylar questioningly. She smiled at Harry, thanking him before politely refusing. "It's an antique," she explained. "It's expensive; I can't accept it." She nodded to Alexander. This little figurine was the key. It was too easily dismissed.

"Where did you get this?" Alexander asked Harry.

Harry, about to speak, replied with a smile upon hearing Alexander's question. "Two years ago, I won a painting at auction. A friend gifted it to me; it was lovely, and I didn't want to refuse his kindness."

"A friend? Do I know him?" Alexander asked.

Harry didn't give it much thought. "Probably not. I hadn't known him long when he gave it to me. We got along well, won several things at auction, and lost contact after I returned home."

"So that's it," Alexander said, his expression darkening. "He must have done it deliberately. He approached you specifically to give you the figurine."

Harry was stunned. "What? Deliberately? This figurine isn't worth much. Why would he get into trouble for this?"

As he spoke, an idea struck him, and his expression changed instantly. "Alexander," he said, "are you saying something's wrong with this figurine? Did it cause all the misfortune we've suffered these past two years?"

"Right It seems everything started after I returned from overseas. Accidents happened one after another. I've sought help from many people, but no one could explain it. How did you figure it out?"

Alexander shook his head gravely. "I didn't. Skye did. She's been Viola's apprentice since she was young."

Harry's eyes widened at the mention of Viola.