Chapter 13
Bastian leaned forward, lowering his voice conspiratorially. “I overheard my dad mention something. The new owner of Westwide Pharmaceutical is most likely from the Norwood family.”
At the mention of the Norwood family, Charles’s expression changed slightly.
Uniteon Group’s assets could rank in the top ten in Alsewood, while the Norwood family was a presence so formidable that even the combined wealth of the top ten in Alsewood couldn’t compare.
Charles furrowed his brow, puzzled. “Isn’t the Norwood family known for never touching the pharmaceutical industry? Why would they suddenly acquire Westwide Pharmaceutical?”
Bastian threw up his hands and shrugged. “Who knows? Maybe they just couldn’t resist the lure of the pharmaceutical industry’s profits. After all, money is the biggest motivator.”
After making his point, Bastian glanced at the time, got up to leave, and as he reached the door, he turned back to remind Charles, “Oh, and don’t forget that Cassius is flying back tonight. It’s his birthday, and we’re having a welcome–home party for him at Wambalow House at seven.
Cassius Lockwood was one of Charles’s college roommates and a longtime friend. Charles couldn’t afford to stand him up.
Charles pondered for a few seconds, then picked up his phone and called the villa.
“Hello, Mr. Hawthorne,” answered Mia.
10:3000
1
13
Where’s Mrs. Hawthorne?” he asked.
Irs. Hawthorne is in her room,” Mia replied.
ut her on the phone,” he said.
e living room landline was connected to the phone in the room, so Mia aply transferred the call. Charles waited for a good half–minute, his tience wearing thin, before Camilla finally picked up.
the past, Camilla would always answer his calls instantly. “Charles, hat’s up?” she said.
arles’s tone was a bit displeased. “What are you doing? Why did it take u so long to answer the phone?”
rmilla glanced at the silver needles stuck into the acupuncture points on
r legs and said, “I’m having acupuncture on my legs, trying to get back walking normally as soon as possible.”
t he was still pretending to be blind, but her legs needed to recover
Lickly; otherwise, it would delay her plans.
orn into a family of medical professionals, Camilla had learned to use eedles as soon as she could hold a fork. Even without sight, finding the ght acupuncture points was second nature to her.
harles didn’t question her.
Tonight, I-” Charles paused briefly, then casually lied, “I might have to ork late and won’t be back until late. Don’t wait up for me. You should et some rest.”
harles had no intention of telling Camilla about his evening plans to ang out with Cassius and the others. The reason was simple. He didn’t
ant the hassle.
1631
Chapter 13
Over the years, Camilla had tried hard to fit into his social circle, making an effort to get along with his friends and even memorizing the birthdays of his childhood friends, preparing gifts a month in advance.
But the gifts Camilla gave were herbal remedies she had personally prepared–health and wellness products. His friends, however, were all wealthy or well–off, and the gifts they exchanged were always expensive luxury items.
When Camilla handed over her herbal gift in front of everyone, Charles could see the mockery and disdain in their expressions. He knew they looked down on Camilla and her presents.
If Camilla knew he was going to Cassius’s birthday party tonight, she would probably insist on coming along. But given her current condition, it would only be more embarrassing for everyone involved.
Camilla, however, wasn’t concerned about Charles working late; she was worried about the children. “What about Lucius and Cecilia? I’ll go pick them up.”
Charles glanced at the photos of the two kids on his desk and said. without changing expression, “I just remembered that they have two piano lessons with an international master after school today. I’ve arranged for the driver to pick them up and drop them off. You just stay home and rest.“
