Chapter 520: The Haunting Past

Some online comments were outrageous. Even after the trending topic was removed, it remained a popular subject of public conversation. Stella, who had previously faded from public view, found herself thrust back into the limelight. Zachary saw the news and wasn't surprised. He wondered, "Didn't Stella die in a psychiatric hospital? Who leaked these photos?" The public was unaware of Stella's hospitalization or the fire. Could someone harboring a grudge against Nathaniel be responsible?

He switched off the news to find Vivian outside, seemingly busy weeding. "What are you doing?" he asked. Vivian paused, looked up at his expression, and her mind drifted to the online news. "It's none of your business," she retorted. She sympathized with Cecilia; who wouldn't care if their partner's picture was leaked? Zachary watched her work. "If you're not too busy, would you like to join me for a visit to Rainsworth Manor?"

Initially, Vivian was grumpy, but upon hearing their destination, she looked up, surprised. "Really?" she asked. The previous day, Zachary's grandfather had asked him to take her to visit relatives, and he'd refused. How had things changed so quickly? "Alright, let's bring Jon along."

Zachary had two goals for the visit: to question Nathaniel and meet his son.

"Forget Jon. Let's go alone," Vivian said immediately, concerned about Jon's exposure.

"Of course we'll bring him," Zachary insisted, already going to find Jonathan before she could react. He reasoned that bringing the clever Jonathan would be advantageous when meeting Nathaniel's son.

Jonathan was playing chess with George, who, facing defeat, pleaded, "No, no, this round doesn't count. Let's start over." Jonathan was remarkably skilled; George hadn't won a single game that morning. "Alright," Jonathan agreed, resetting the board.

"Grandpa, I'm taking Jon and Vivian to Rainsworth Manor," Zachary announced. George seemed puzzled, reluctant to part with Jonathan. "You guys go ahead. Remember to bring gifts; it's the holidays. Jon will keep me company."

Upon hearing of the visit, Jonathan also refused. "I'm not going. I want to stay and play chess."

"You're such a good boy," Zachary said, feeling helpless.

Vivian arrived, sighing in relief at George and Jonathan's responses. "Let's go alone. Imagine how bored Grandpa would be at home," she suggested.

"See? Vivian's the only one who cares," George declared, turning to Zachary. "You brat, you only upset me!"

Zachary was speechless. Left with no choice, he took Vivian to Rainsworth Manor.

Meanwhile, at Rainsworth Manor, Cecilia, seeing the trending topics removed, found the photos easily enough on TikTok. A sense of unease settled over her. After breakfast, she pulled Nathaniel aside.