Chapter 207: Lousy Father

Nathaniel, known for his unwavering decisions, instructed the legal department to prepare the contract. Mason had no choice but to comply.

“By the way, Mr. Rainsworth,” a voice said, “regarding your account being hacked this morning, the investigation may take some time. The culprit used a false address…”

Nathaniel frowned. “Send me all the data.”

“Yes, sir.”

After reviewing the data in his study, Nathaniel quickly identified a vulnerability, revealing the perpetrator’s actual address: Hillscester.

Meanwhile, Jonathan, sweat beading on his forehead, frantically typed in a kindergarten restroom. He abandoned the money transfer and changed his address instead. Wiping his brow, he muttered, “I didn’t expect my lousy father to have such capable people. This money wasn’t easy to get; I almost got caught.” He’d luckily brought his laptop, a decision he felt uneasy about making that day.

Nathaniel had only pinpointed Hillscester as the approximate location. “He gave up so quickly,” he mused, perplexed. Rival companies wouldn't employ such unusual tactics. He sent the address to Mason. “Investigate thoroughly; we must find this person.” Nathaniel wouldn't tolerate threats.

After giving instructions, breakfast arrived. Nathaniel joined Cecilia downstairs. Unaware of Jonathan's near discovery, Cecilia anxiously awaited the results of this month’s pregnancy test and planned Elliot’s safe escape.

“Can I see Eli?” she asked tentatively. “He’s still young, and I’m worried about him with relatives around.” She hadn’t seen him since her birthday.

Nathaniel’s grip tightened on his spoon, his mind wrestling with his mother’s words, his unborn child, and Calvin. He resumed his usual indifference. “Don’t worry, he’s fine.” Spring Forest Manor provided daily updates; he’d know immediately if anything happened.

Cecilia’s heart chilled; her appetite vanished. Her eyes darkened. “Don’t you think you’re being unreasonable?”

“You were with another man during our marriage, carrying his child. Don’t you think that crossed a line?” he countered. In the past, he wouldn't have even allowed the child to live.

Cecilia remained silent, needing to protect Elliot’s identity. Swallowing her pride, she pleaded, “Please let me see him. I miss him terribly. Didn’t you say we should act like a normal married couple?”

Nathaniel didn’t understand why he agreed.

That afternoon, at Spring Forest Manor, Elliot sat basking in the sun, watching falling leaves. A wave of fear, a fear of death, washed over him. His mother's devastation at his death filled him with dread.

The nanny, noticing his quiet demeanor and deep melancholy, asked, “Eli, are you missing your mommy?”

Elliot quickly masked his worry. “Madam, why hasn’t Mr. Rainsworth visited? Does he not like me? Will he never see me again?” The nanny’s heart ached for him. Despite Nathaniel’s sternness, Elliot still thought of him.

“How could that be?” the nanny exclaimed. “I just overheard the butler saying Mr. Rainsworth and your mother are arriving.”