Chapter 395: They Will Pay the Price

Meanwhile, at Rainsworth Manor, Elena was in high spirits after receiving Jonathan's call. She hadn't expected him to take the initiative, given his aloofness during their previous encounters.

Nathaniel had not yet arrived, and whispers circulated through the manor. "Is Nathaniel not coming? He agreed, didn't he? How could he break his word?" one person murmured. Another replied, "Haven't you heard the rumors? He's lost his sight." A wave of curiosity rippled through the room. If the rumors were true, the unfolding events promised to be far more intriguing than anyone anticipated.

Finally, the butler led Nathaniel into the manor. All eyes turned to the entrance as a man in luxurious attire appeared. His clothes were opulent, but his usually sharp eyes lacked their former luster. He relied on the butler's guidance.

Nathaniel remained silent. Elena stepped forward. "Dad, Nathaniel is here," she said to Niel. "The doctor advised rest after the accident. We should let him rest, shouldn't we?"

Seeing Nathaniel's blindness, Niel was inclined to let him leave. But Adrian intervened. "Aunt Elena, Nathaniel rarely goes out. Why don't we spend some time together? No need to rush him home." Others echoed his sentiment.

Elena shot Niel a displeased glance. He stood, leaning on his cane. "We still have the ceremony after dinner. He can rest then. Elena, come to my study now."

"All right," Elena replied, sensing his disapproval.

As soon as she left, hushed whispers about Nathaniel resumed, even with him nearby. Nicholas sat quietly, sipping coffee, observing with detached indifference.

Adrian approached Nathaniel. "Nathaniel, I didn't expect this."

Nathaniel's expression froze. "And you are?"

Adrian paused, assuming Nathaniel couldn't see him. "I'm Adrian. Can't you recognize my voice?"

Nathaniel searched his memory, recalling his good-for-nothing cousin. "Yes, I remember," he said. "Half a year ago, your real estate business failed. Did you start a new company?"

Adrian choked. His wife, Miranda, stepped forward. "Nathaniel, I understand your blindness and business loss are difficult, but please don't take it out on my husband. He didn't take your position. If you need to vent, direct it toward him instead." Her gaze fell on Nicholas, who remained absorbed in his coffee.

Nathaniel, unwilling to engage further, started to leave. Adrian deliberately tripped him.

"Daddy! You're going to trip Uncle Nathaniel!" Felix's unexpected voice rang out.

Adrian stiffened. Disdain rippled through the room. Nathaniel, sensing the danger, stopped. Miranda quickly pulled Felix away, suggesting he go play outside.

Nathaniel then instructed the butler to guide him to a seat. The surrounding chatter—a mixture of sympathy, mockery, and disdain—cut through the air. Nathaniel clenched his fists. I'll remember this. They will pay.