Chapter 362
Alexander woke up before Rain and quietly slipped out of bed, careful not to disturb her. But as he moved to leave, he found himself pausing, his eyes drawn to her peaceful face. Time seemed to stand still as he stood there, smiling to himself like a man lost in a pleasant dream.
“No wonder I used to sneak photos of you,” he murmured softly, his voice filled with admiration. Just watching her, he felt an overwhelming sense of contentment, as if everything in the world was finally perfect.
Unable to resist, he leaned down to give her a gentle kiss on the lips before urging himself to step away. Alexander had decided to prepare breakfast or more accurately, brunch since it was already past ten in the morning.
Once he was dressed, he headed to the kitchen, where he found Sanya and Chef Philip deep in conversation.
“Good morning, Sir,” Chef Philip greeted him warmly.
“Morning,” Alexander replied. Then, glancing around, he asked, “Where’s Sarah p>
Sanya’s expression shifted to one of surprise. “Oh, right. You’ve lost almost five years of memories, so you probably don’t remember, Sarah doesn’t work here anymore,” she explained.
Alexander frowned, confusion evident on his face. Chef Philip quickly stepped in to provide clarity, summarizing the events that led to Sarah’s dismissal. Alexander’s frown deepened as he learned how Sarah had been secretly spying on him for Carla all those years.
“If you’re unsure about what I said, Sir, you can check the CCTV footage from this area,” Chef Philip offered. “That’s actually how Ma’am Rain proved Sarah was trying to frame her p>
“There’s no need for that,” Alexander said with a sigh, his mind spinning with the revelations.
Sanya chimed in cheerfully, “Anyway, you and Rain missed breakfast, so you’re probably starving by now. Should we bring the food to your room or set up in the dining area? Personally, I think room service is the way to go!” she teased with a mischievous grin.
“It’s fine, Sanya. I’ll prepare our meal,” Alexander replied with a small, bashful smile.
“Well, at least let Chef Philip assist you,” Sanya suggested, winking before excusing herself.
As she walked away, she couldn’t hide her giggles. Heading to the backyard pool where everyone else was gathered, she called out excitedly, “Alexander is finally up and cooking for Rain p>
The poolside erupted in laughter and chatter. William, already in the water with Uncle Ben and Aunt Melanie, grinned widely. Aunt Vernice and Rock were busy tending to the barbecue nearby.
“Really? I knew it! My brother might have lost his memories, but his feelings are still there!” William declared triumphantly. Then, turning to Sanya, he asked, “Did you tell him we’re having a mini pool party out here p>
Sanya pouted dramatically. “Of course not! They deserve some privacy. Let them stay in their room. They’ve got a lot of catching up to do!” she replied with a playful smirk.
With that, she shed her sundress to reveal a sleek one-piece swimsuit and dove into the pool to join the others, laughter echoing in the warm morning air.
While Sanya and the others enjoyed their lively conversation by the pool, William climbed out of the water, water dripping from his toned frame, and made his way over to the grill. He was craving a bite and curious to see if any barbecue sticks were ready.
His father, Rock, was busy tending to the sizzling skewers, the aroma of grilled meat filling the air. As William approached, Rock handed him one of the perfectly cooked skewers.
“Here you go, son,” Rock said with a faint smile. Then, his tone grew more serious as he asked, “Any updates on the investigation about Rain’s real parents p>
William let out a deep sigh. “Nothing concrete yet. It’s tricky trying to move without tipping off Tim Clayton. We need to access files from his hospital archives, but those records aren’t exactly digitized or easy to get. Back then, they didn’t have high-tech systems p>
His gaze shifted toward Uncle Ben and Aunt Melanie, lingering thoughtfully. “We’ve already managed to place a few people inside Clayton Hospital University, it was brother Alexander’s idea. We’re hoping for progress soon, but honestly, I think the truth would be easier to uncover if we had someone inside Clayton’s mansion p>
Rock frowned, his brows knitting together. “The mansion? You’ve tried that before, haven’t you p>
William nodded, frustration flashing in his expression. “Yeah, but Tim Clayton is meticulous when it comes to hiring. His staff is vetted thoroughly, and outsiders don’t last long. He’s paranoid, and for good reason p>
Ben, who suddenly appeared before them with Aunt Melanie, spoke. “So what are you suggesting now, William p>
William hesitated before voicing his thoughts. “I think Aunt Melanie or Rain might be able to help us. If one of them were to move back into the mansion temporarily, it might give us the access we need p>
Melanie’s eyes widened in surprise. “Me? Move back in? Tim won’t trust anyone who’s stepped away from his control p>
William met her gaze steadily. “Exactly, Aunt Melanie. That’s why you’re the best option. You know the layout, you know how he operates, and he wouldn’t see you as a direct threat… not right away p>
Melanie glanced at Ben, uncertainty written all over her face. “And if not me, you’re saying Rain should go back?” she asked cautiously.
“I’m saying either option could work,” William replied. “Rain might be able to sway Tim if she plays the part of the dutiful daughter-in-law. But I know it’s risky, and I’d never push her into something she’s not ready for. It’s just… we’re running out of alternatives p>
Rock interjected, his voice heavy with concern. “Wouldn’t that make Tim even more suspicious? He’s not stupid, William. If either of them suddenly shows up with renewed interest in the mansion, he’s bound to question their motives p>
William crossed his arms and nodded reluctantly. “You’re right, Dad. It’s a gamble either way. But we’re at a dead end. If we don’t take a risk, we might never get to the bottom of this p>
Ben placed a reassuring hand on Melanie’s shoulder. “If it comes to that, we’ll figure out a way to make it work. But only if Melanie or Rain agrees. No pressure p>
Melanie glanced between Ben and William, then sighed deeply. “Let’s hope your people at the hospital find something useful first. Because going back into that house… it won’t be easy p>