Chapter 410: Swindled Out Of It

Sven continued to share his investigation's findings with Cecilia. The most puzzling aspect was the identity of his anonymous helper.

“If I uncover anything new, I’ll let you know immediately,” Sven promised.

“Thank you,” Cecilia replied, her mood heavy with the revelations. What had been mere suspicions were now confirmed. Her younger brother, Magnus, had been foolish, enriching others at the family's expense.

Nathaniel, observing their conversation, asked, “What’s wrong?”

Cecilia recounted Sven's report, confiding in Nathaniel.

“So, what’s your plan?” Nathaniel inquired, having long suspected something amiss, though he hadn't previously investigated.

“I’m going to reclaim what rightfully belongs to the Smith family,” Cecilia declared resolutely. If Magnus had simply squandered the fortune, it would have been different. But he had been swindled.

No wonder Dad left a will; he must have foreseen Paula's intentions. I was so naive then, devoted to Nathaniel and oblivious to our family's downfall.

“That’s a good plan,” Nathaniel agreed, ready to assist.

Cecilia, however, unexpectedly said, “You should talk to your mother soon. Ask her to repay the money she borrowed.”

Gently disengaging from Nathaniel's embrace, she rose. “I’m going to rest now.”

Nathaniel felt a pang of loss as she left, wishing he had held her longer. After she departed, he received a message from Mason: Paula's past had been uncovered and shared with Sven.

Nathaniel replied: Got it. Keep a discreet eye on Evans Group.

Mason, in bed, read the message, puzzled. Why are we targeting Evans Group again? he wondered. He replied: Understood, then sighed, setting aside his phone. “I wonder when this charade of pretending to be poor will finally end.”

The next morning, Cecilia contacted their former lawyer, Norman, presenting her father's will and explaining the situation.

“To reclaim the Smith family’s assets, we’ll need evidence of Magnus’ asset transfers. But it’s been seven or eight years; much of the evidence may have disappeared,” Norman sighed.

Cecilia nodded. “Then we’ll take our time searching.” Knowing the truth, she wouldn't let others profit from the Smith family's hard work.

“All right,” Norman agreed, and Cecilia rehired him, alongside another investigative team, to discreetly examine Evans Group.

The arrangements completed, it was noon. After lunch, Cecilia felt drowsy and dozed off by the window.

A gentle breeze stirred her face. Then, a tall figure blocked the sunlight. In her sleep, Cecilia was transported back to childhood. Nicholas’ large hand rested gently on her head as he asked, “Ceci, how did you fall asleep here?”

Blinking awake, Cecilia squinted, seeing a silhouette resembling Nicholas. Without thinking, she whispered, “Nicholas…”

Nathaniel’s hand froze. He’d stayed home that day, finding Cecilia asleep.

“What did you call me?” he asked.

Cecilia, vision clearing, realized her mistake. “I’m sorry, I was just a bit dazed.”

Nathaniel's hand rested on her shoulder, his grip tightening. “Say my name again.”

Cecilia hesitated, startled by his intensity.

“N–Nathaniel,” she stammered.