Chapter 248 Everything In Place
Jonathan hadn't attended kindergarten for two days, and Zachary was home, juggling work while caring for him. Outside, Vivian was creating a scene, but Zachary initially ignored her. He only relented and allowed her entry after learning she intended to see Wren, agreeing to a paternity test. Vivian embraced Jonathan, sobbing. "My sweet boy, you must have been frightened," she cried. Jonathan, despite Vivian's flaws, acknowledged her impressive acting. He patted her shoulder. "Mommy, don't cry. Be good now." Zachary observed them, still unconvinced the child wasn't his son. The paternity test would take four to five days, during which Jonathan would remain with him.
"Zachary, keep your word, or I'll get my father involved," Vivian warned, aware of Zachary's fear of George. Fortunately, George was fond of her. Zachary, growing impatient, said, "I get it. You can leave now." After a final hug with Jonathan, Vivian ensured he hadn't been mistreated before departing. She immediately informed Cecilia. Cecilia felt relieved. All that remained was to leave the next day. Unbeknownst to her, Nathaniel was arranging the purchase of the Smith residence from Stella and overseeing renovations at Smith Corporation headquarters. He planned a surprise for her. He even contemplated starting a family with Cecilia, yearning for a peaceful life. One planned for the future; the other planned to leave.
Inside the bedroom, Cecilia packed a small bag, including the dolls Elliot and Jonathan cherished. Nathaniel's untouched gift remained; she had no intention of taking it. She called her overseas assistant. "How much money is in the company account?" "Eight billion." Cecilia was startled. "Transfer all the money to this account." She intended to return it to Nathaniel—first to surprise him, then to repay him for his help. Consider it payment for his sperm. Cecilia entrusted the funds to Norman.
Norman was shocked. "Ceci, where did you get so much money?" "I ran a business and need your help transferring it," Cecilia explained. "This time, draft an agreement returning Nathaniel's betrothal gift to the Smiths. We owe each other nothing afterward." "Would Nathaniel agree to sign?" "Whether he signs or not is his business; I owe him nothing." Norman noted Cecilia's detached tone. "Alright. When should I give it to him?" Cecilia decided, "Two weeks." She intended to take Jonathan with her.
Meanwhile, at Elite Club, Nathaniel sat with Darren. Darren presented a property sale contract. "The Smith residence?" he asked. It was a contract Mason had delivered. "A problem?" Nathaniel asked.
"Have you been busy lately because of Cecilia?" Darren asked intently, noticing Nathaniel's unusual investment in someone. Nathaniel chuckled. "What kind of joke is this?" "Zachary has a son," Darren replied, smiling. Nathaniel was surprised. "A son?" "Yes, four years old, attends kindergarten. You may have even seen him at your family's party," Darren said. Nathaniel showed little curiosity; Zachary's womanizing was well-known. He checked the time, realizing it was almost time. He stood. "I have matters to attend to." Darren suggested, "How about we visit his son in a couple of days?" Nathaniel didn't respond.
He hadn't gone far when his phone rang. An unknown number sent a text: "I'll be back soon. We need to discuss certain matters."