Lost in these reflections, Nathan eventually dozed off.
He was jolted awake at five in the morning by Colbyâs cries.
Years of military discipline had honed his instinctsâColbyâs soft sobs instantly roused him.
He scooped up his son, soothing him with whispered comforts.
Glancing back at Lucinda, he was relieved to find her still sleeping peacefully.
Cradling Colby, Nathan tiptoed out of the ward to the adjoining nursery.
There, he efficiently prepared a bottle of milk.
As the new day dawned, two hours after Nathan had drifted off, Sonny arrived.
With Lucinda still asleep, Nathan gestured for silence, signaling Sonny to tread softly.
Sonny, about to speak, paused at Nathanâs stern look, nodding silently and waiting by the door.
Once outside the room, Sonny spoke more freely.
âNathan, Iâve discreetly collected a can of baby formula from each of several affluent families, avoiding any direct explanation to prevent unnecessary alarm.
I made up an excuse and sent the samples to the National Security Bureau for testing.
We should have results soon.
â
âOkay,â Nathan responded, clapping him on the shoulder.
âYou did well last night.
Go get some rest and send Lonnie to replace you.
â
Sonny grinned, the picture of loyalty.
âNo worries.
Helping out with my little nephew is the least I can do.
We need to uncover whoâs behind this quickly.
â
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Nathan playfully pinched Sonnyâs cheek.
âGo home and have Luisa put a facial mask on you.
Your skin hasnât recovered from your last business trip.
Youâre getting engaged soon, remember? You need to look after yourselfâand donât forget about Luisa.
â
Sonnyâs smile faded slightly at the mention of his suntan.
âI know, Iâm on it.
Luisa and I are solid,â he reassured Nathan.
With a nod, Nathan watched Sonny leave the hospital.
Before departing, Sonny called Lonnie to take over his shift.
Feeling the need to refresh, Nathan washed up in a nearby restroom, shaking off the fatigue.
Lonnie arrived in haste just as Nathan was finishing up.
âCome, drive me to the National Security Bureau,â Nathan directed.
âYes, sir,â Lonnie replied, following him into the elevator.
Standing at attention, Lonnie noticed Nathanâs distant expression, a mix of determination and concern etched across his face as the elevator doors closed.
After pondering for a moment, Nathan instructed, âThe hospital is crowded, so letâs discreetly increase the security around Colbyâs ward, just to be safe.
â
Lonnie nodded.
âUnderstood, sir.
â
âHave you reviewed the case file regarding the tainted milk powder?â
âIâve looked over the details before coming here.
Iâm up to date with the progress of Sonnyâs investigation last night,â Lonnie replied.