Chapter 999
Tarquin Bradford had a hunch and decided to test the waters. The storm brewing around the Hawkins family was, without a shadow of a doubt, linked to a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows.
“This trip to Oceanopolis might just be our chance to unmask them,” he thought.
With a stoic expression, Tarquin ordered, “Grab Verity Bradford’s illegitimate child first. Pretend I’ll interrogate him personally. Arrange a private jet in secret; we’re heading to Oceanopolis tonight p>
The child, having been raised within the mysterious figure’s stronghold, surely knew much that could aid them.
After returning from Oceanopolis, a thorough interrogation was in order.
Hanging up the phone, Tarquin immediately sought out Elysia Thorne to inform her of their imminent departure to Oceanopolis.
Oceanopolis, Dock No. 1.
As nightfall approached, a well-dressed, affluent woman lingered by the dock, refusing to leave. Clutching a rag doll, she hummed softly, her demeanor hinting at a troubled mind.
Her maids called out to her, “Madam, it’s getting dark. It’s time to head back for dinner p>
The woman, lost in her own world, paid them no heed.
The maids, frustration evident on their faces, muttered among themselves, “Day after day, it’s the same. Her daughter disappeared over twenty years ago. What’s the point in waiting p>
“Exactly. If she’s gone, she’s gone. Why not just have another child and move on? She’s asking for unnecessary suffering, bringing this upon herself.” Their conversation was cut short by a phone call. Recognizing the caller ID, one maid’s demeanor changed instantly to one of obsequiousness. “Hello, Helen p>
Whatever was said on the other end prompted a quick response, “Of course, of course, I’ll bring Pamela back right away. Just give us a moment.” Hanging up, the other maid inquired, “Something up with Helen p>
“Yeah, she’s looking for Pamela. Seems she’s had a rough time; sounded quite upset p>
“Poor Pamela’s in for it then. Helen always comes down hard on her p>
“Why bother with a madwoman? It’s Pamela who suffers, not us. It’d be better if Helen kept her indoors. I’m tired of coming to the docks every day.” Agreed. Let’s convince her to head back p>
Approaching the distressed woman, they coaxed, “Madam, it’s time for dinner at home p>
“I’m not going, waiting for Irene p>
“No need to wait. Your daughter’s already home p>
Her eyes lighting up, the woman hurriedly got up, “Home, we must go home. Irene needs her mother. She’s missing me. Let’s hurry p>
In her haste, the woman tripped, scraping her knees. Wincing in pain, she bit her lip and continued limping forward.
The maids, devoid of sympathy, rolled their eyes, secretly wishing she’d injured herself more severely to avoid future trips to the dock.
Noticing the woman heading in the wrong direction, they caught up with her, “Madam, the car’s this way p>
She ignored their disdain, repeating, “Home to Irene. She’s missing her mother. She needs me p>