Emerging from the interrogation room, Nathan didnât immediately return to his office.
He lingered in the corridor, his posture rigid as he leaned against the wall, his gaze composed and contemplative, delving into introspection.
Frustration etched across his features, evident in the furrow of his brow and the subtle clench of his jaw.
His hand instinctively sought solace in his pocket, a habitual gesture fueled by a craving for a cigarette.
His quest for relief was met with disappointment as his searching fingers found only emptiness within his pocket.
A sudden realization dawned upon him, tracing the timeline of events back to Lucindaâs discovery of him having the S404 Virus.
Then, she had insisted he abandon smoking, a directive he had dutifully followed.
As he regained his health, Lucindaâs pregnancy became another deterrent, her aversion to the scent of smoke rendering his habit untenable.
Subsequently, his commitment to abstain from smoking solidified with the arrival of their twins.
Reflecting on time, Nathan realized that it had been nearly eighteen months since he last tucked a cigarette pack into his pocket.
Resolving to relinquish smoking, Nathan dismissed the fleeting urge and instead retrieved his phone from his pocket to call Kern.
âMr.
Payne, what can I do for you?â Kern inquired.
Nathanâs tone was devoid of warmth, his words cutting through the air with icy precision.
âInform Norton that I am willing to absolve Ronan of any repercussions, viewing it as a token of gratitude for his mentorship.
However, Myloâs actions from the past cannot go unpunished.
There will be no negotiation on this matter.
Advise Norton to cease any further interference.
â
Nathanâs demeanor exuded unwavering determination, a palpable resolve that reverberated through the phone Line, leaving Kern momentarily speechless.
âMr.
Payne, youâ¦â Kernâs astonishment deepened as he observed Nathanâs departure from his usual familial address, no longer referring to Norton with the affectionate title of âGrandpaâ.
Nathanâs reverence for Norton was unwavering, and he valued his counsel deeply.
However, their relationship was more than just one of mentorship; it carried the warmth of familial affection, with Nathan always addressing Norton as Grandpa.
âMr.
Payneâ¦â
Kernâs voice quivered faintly, betraying his genuine apprehension in the face of Nathanâs aloof demeanor.
Though he felt compelled to intervene on Nortonâs behalf, Kern was at a loss for where to begin amidst Nathanâs steely resolve.
Nathanâs refusal to entertain further discussion was evident in his terse response.
âMy stance is unequivocal.
If Norton prioritizes Myloâs family over my fatherâs, then I.
â
His voice momentarily faltered, a palpable tension hanging in the air as he tightened his grip on the phone, his tone turning frigid.
âIâd prefer to sever ties with Norton.
â
âMr.
Payne!â
Kern attempted to interject, but Nathan had already terminated the call.
With a cold detachment, Nathanâs fingertips navigated the phone screen, swiftly consigning Kernâs number to the blacklist.
He harbored no desire to entertain any potential explanations, preferring silence over cunning justifications.
With his resolve firmly set, Nathan pivoted on his heel and made his way purposefully toward the detention room, his steps echoing with determination down the corridor.
Nathanâs furrowed brows and icy countenance emanated a chilling aura, causing passing officers to tread cautiously in his presence.
Even their greetings were offered with a measure of apprehension.
The heavy door to the cell swung open.
In the corner of the cell, Mylo lounged with an air of nonchalance, the glow of a cigarette illuminating his features.