Chapter 0368
Katherine had lived in the shadows for many years. After hearing the news of Peter’s death, she had closed her heart and vowed never to love again. For reasons she never fully understood, Darius Richards had always reached out to offer her unconditional support, but she had always refused it. Today, after many years, she was the one contacting him—and accepting his help. The only thing that had changed was that her son was now expecting a child, which complicated things for a family that had always been seen as humble and of modest means.
The young mother didn’t want her son to abandon his studies. He had inherited his father’s gifts: charisma, intelligence, and a natural talent for business. She knew about his budding career as a stockbroker, and their remote location was perfect for the work he was doing, but that was just the beginning. A new baby would only delay the plans that Alden and Grace had been working toward.
After much thought, Katherine decided to accept the help Darius Richards had once offered. The decision left a bitter taste in her mouth–it was risky–but she couldn’t bear to see her son lose everything he had worked for. Nor did she want to see her grandchild grow up without a father. Finally, she made the call and confirmed a meeting with the lawyer.
“Darius, can we meet in a week?” Katherine asked nervously.
- “Of course! You know it’s my responsibility to look after you. I’m glad you’re finally accepting my help!” Darius replied, holding the legal power of attorney Peter had once given him. “Let’s meet next Friday in Ushuaia. Please, –bring Alden.”
“I’ll talk to him, and if he agrees, I’ll bring him. But please, let’s not pressure him.”
[Meanwhile, elsewhere]
“Theodore, the meeting is set. Darius and Katherine will meet in Ushuaia. ‘Katherine would never have imagined you’d choose such a remote place to live. It seems you finally picked a place similar to your homeland,“” the man on the other end of the line mused.
“What exactly do you want me to do? Just follow her? Give me the details of the trip. What do you want me to find out?” Theodore asked, seeking clarification.
“Everything about her and her son. The young man is so much like… Never mind. Just help me get her address, contact details–I want to know everything about him.”
“Alright, I’ll leave for Argentina on Thursday. Are you sure you’ll be okay?” Theodore asked hesitantly.
“Yes, man! Just be careful. She doesn’t know you, so it’ll be easy to investigate her. As soon as you have any information on her or the boy, send it to me immediately,” the man replied, his tone filled with interest.
“Don’t worry. You’ll have the details firsthand. Take care, and we’ll talk soon!” Theodore said, his concern evident.
[Ushuaia]
“Alden, I need to talk to you. Can you sit down for a coffee with me?” Katherine asked as she watched her son return from school.
Alden knew exactly what she wanted to discuss. It was all about the baby on the way. So far, his mother hadn’t reacted much, but he was sure today she, would scold him and what worried him most was that she might take the news badly and kick him out of the house.
“I’ll be right back, Mom. Just let me put my backpack in my room,” Alden said nervously, his hands sweaty.
Less than five minutes later, Alden joined her in their tiny living room.
2
Chapter 0368
“Alright, Mom. What do you want to talk about?”
+25 BONUS
“Son… You know who your father was. You also know he’s no longer with us. He died when you were just three years old. His lawyer helped us so that you, my son, could carry your father’s last name. But the name wasn’t the only thing he offered us. He says you’re entitled to a lifelong pension to help you succeed in your studies and your business endeavors.
“With a new baby on the way, I don’t feel confident that I can support you as much as I’d like. But I know you and Grace want to be together, and that’s what led me to reach out to him again. I’ll be meeting him on Friday afternoon. He wants to meet you. I know it’s sudden, and I know it’s a surprise, but I had no choice. I don’t want you to set aside your career, Alden Pietrovich Palmer. You’re destined for success, and this is just a bump in the road. Things will work themselves out.”
“Mom! I’m so sorry. I know my irresponsible actions are causing problems for you. I love Grace so much, and I want to marry her!”
“I know, my son. And I also know how hard it is to raise a child. I’m not asking you to leave them to fend for themselves. That’s why I contacted your father’s lawyer. I never wanted to ask for favors from that family, but today, I know we need their help.”
“When do we need to see him?”
“Next Friday. He just wants to meet you. Please, I need you with me that day.”
“Yes, Mom! It’s time to meet the people who were part of my father’s circle.”
