Lucinda, sensing his emotional turmoil, reached out, offering silentfort with a gentle squeeze of his fist.


    Kern, filled with remorse, spoke softly.


    “Sir, your grandfather has grappled with guilt for years.


    He feels responsible for failing your parents and you.


    That’s why he brought you close, shielded you from family conflicts, and secured your position at the National Security Bureau.


    He only retired when he felt you were ready.


    He held onto thepany to prevent Mylo, Jeff, or any other power-hungry rtive from taking control.


    It was all to ensure you would inherit the legacy.


    ”


    A dark humor flickered in Nathan’s eyes.


    “Don’t paint him as a saint, Kern.


    He merely wanted a controble puppet.


    nting spies in the National Security Bureau, feigning illness to lure me back, and manipting Ronan’s release are not signs of respect for me.


    ”


    “Sir, your grandfather shouldered the burden of leading the entire Payne family.


    He strived for bnce, but he genuinely cared for you.


    You are not his puppet…”


    “Enough,” Nathan interrupted, his voice steely.


    “Kern, you’ve been away too long.


    Return before Grandpa wakes up.


    ”N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    It was a dismissal in and simple.


    Kern had no cause to Linger.


    Despite a wellspring of words remaining to defend Norton, he knew Nathan wouldn’t listen.


    With a defeated sigh, Kern left Nathan’s office.


    As he reached for the office door, he paused, turning back with a parting thought.


    “I hope you’ll find it in your heart to empathize with your grandfather.


    He’s endured much.


    It’s not easy to make the choices he’s had to face.


    ”


    Nathan remained silent, his demeanor icy.


    With a resigned sigh, Kern exited Nathan’s office.


    As the door shut, Lucinda leaned against Nathan, her touch a soothing balm.


    Her fingers untangled his clenched fist and intertwined with his own.


    “I understand your hurt, Nathan.


    Norton’s actions may seem self—serving, and you can’t bring yourself to agree with what he’s done, but you’re not alone.


    You have me, Colby, and Destinee.


    We’re your family.


    ”


    Her voice was soft, calming the storm within him.


    He turned to her, his gaze softening.


    A tender ki*snded on her forehead.


    “Don’t worry, I’m not devastated.


    But Kern’s revtion raises a question: who was truly responsible — Mylo or Jeff?”


    His voice hardened with resolve.


    “The murderer who took my parents has lived afortable life for far too long.


    Regardless of Grandpa’s wishes this time, I’ll ensure the true culprit faces justice.


    ”


    Lucinda tenderly caressed his face, acknowledging his inner turmoil.


    The revtion that a trusted family member had yed a role in his parents’ demise cut deep, a betrayal beyond measure.


    For Nathan, it was a betrayal of the highest order.


    Kern’s confession only fueled Nathan’s resolve.


    At precisely three o’clock, Larry and his men ushered Jeff, back in Stastle, into the National Security Bureau’s interrogation chamber.


    Nathan donned his military uniform, preparing to confront Jeff head-on.


    Lucinda assisted him, her hands deftly fastening the buttons of his uniform.