âHow can I help?â
Graham reached for a glass of water on the bedside table, and Cyrus promptly stood up and handed him the glass.
âWe need information about Noelleâs fiancé, Quintin Hudson.
He owns some of the most renowned restaurants and hotels in Stastle.
Do you have any insights on him?â
âYou want him to call off the engagement?â Graham understood his intention.
Cyrus nodded.
With a thoughtful expression, Graham replied, âRegarding the Hudson Group, I donât hold any shares, but I am the largest shareholder of its rival company.
Unfortunately, the two companies are quite evenly matched in strength, making it challenging to deal a severe blow to the Hudson familyâs business.
â
He had spoken so many words and his throat got so dry that he coughed again.
After a sip of water, he went on, âHowever, Iâve had experience running the State Affairs Bureau, so I have access to information on domestic matters.
Iâll instruct my team to investigate the Hudson Groupâs records for any signs of illegal activities.
If we find anything, we can use it as leverage to force Quintin into negotiations.
â
Cyrus was visibly relieved to hear this.
He stood up and bent his head to express his gratitude.
âThank you, Graham,â
âWeâre family.
Itâs the least I can do for you,â Graham reassured him.
Graham was not one to waste time.
He immediately contacted a former colleague at the State Affairs Bureau to initiate the investigation into the Hudson Group.
Seated next to him, Cyrus patiently waited, hoping for positive results.
Violeta brewed tea for the two brothers and gave them some privacy.
Glancing at Grahamâs legs which were covered by the quilt, Cyrus asked, âGraham, do you still read the Bible?â
Graham followed his gaze, and then replied, âYes, but only when my legs arenât hurting.
â
âWhy are you doing this to yourself? Youâve inadvertently made mistakes, but youâve already made amends for your past actions.
When will you release yourself from this self-imposed torment? Itâs time for you to stop.
â Cyrus sighed.
Graham smiled lightly.
âI have nothing else to occupy my time at home.
Since leaving my job, Iâve been adrift without purpose or hope, like a living ghost.
Reading the Bible reminds me that Iâm still alive.
Perhaps one day, Iâll find forgiveness from her.
â
Cyrus understood he was referring to Lucinda.
After a deep sigh, he realized he couldnât convince Graham otherwise.
The room fell silent, both men lost in their thoughts.
There was a palpable loneliness in the air, yet no awkwardness.
The melancholy atmosphere only dissipated when Violeta returned with tea.