If he continued his search for Lucinda, even in failure, it could bring closure to his decade-long love for her.
On the other hand, if he turned around and went to the hospital to see Dulcie, he would fulfill his responsibilities in the contractual marriage.
Dulcie was ill, and as her husband, he should be there to care for her.
Under the red sunset, Kysonâs eyes betrayed a swirl of emotions.
As night descended, the moment for a decision had arrived.
His hands gripped and released the steering wheel in turn.
Finally, he took a deep breath, pressed on the accelerator, and set his jaw with a resolute determination.
Meanwhile, in Hilldale, upon the arrival of National Security Bureau soldiers, they conducted yet another extensive search across the entire town.
It entailed a thorough house-to-house inspection and identity registration.
Nathan headed to the riverside where he had met the old fisherman before.
This time, he found the old man had changed.
Though still hunched and limping, there was a subtle change in his demeanor.
Approaching quietly from behind, Nathan gently grasped the old manâs collar and asked in a respectful tone, âSir, how many years have you been fishing here?â
Upon hearing Nathanâs voice, the old man trembled immediately.
Nathan sneered, âWhatâs got you so scared?â
âN-no⦠Iâ¦â
Before he could finish, Nathan seized his collar and forcefully threw him onto the grass.
The man hit the ground hard, crying out in pain from his back.
Nathan swiftly tore off the manâs fake beard, causing him to wince.
âWhat kind of old man wears a fake beard? Do you want me to check for more disguises?â
âNo! Please, Mr.
Payne, I was coerced into this!â
The man, now dropping all pretense of age, begged Nathan for mercy.
Nathanâs expression remained cold as he narrowed his eyes.
âWhere is Cory Powell?â
âCory Powell?â the man responded, bewildered.
âI donât know him.
I really donât know Cory.
â
Nathanâs anger flared.
He stomped on the manâs stomach with his dark green boot, an aura of menace surrounding him.
The man trembled in pain.
âMr.
Payne, I really donât know who youâre talking about.
Our boss has left, and all the operatives in Hilldale have been withdrawn, leaving me behind.
I only know our bossâs code name is Sheep.
I swear, I donât know who Cory is.
â