259

Shane quickly learned about Bradley and Esther taking Liliane to the hospital. He never expected that the two incompetent individuals he had hired for the task would throw Felix into the sea right in front of Bradley.

The situation had escalated beyond Shane’s anticipation. As the head of the Warner Group and a prominent taxpayer in the city, if Bradley decided to take serious action, Shane would undoubtedly lose his job. However, the most critical concern was protecting his child.

Shane and his wife, Jessica Gundy, had a son named Ben Hoyer, who was currently preparing for his university entrance examination at the crucial age of 18. If Shane’s actions were exposed, his son would likely face discrimination and isolation from his classmates. Although Shane treated Liliane fairly well, he still held deep–seated traditional beliefs favoring sons over daughters.

Furthermore, while Liliane had a congenital heart condition, Ben was a healthy and exceptional child.

He consistently received scholarships for his outstanding academic performance and had received multiple awards for his essays. He even earned a gold medal in mathematics competitions.

For all these reasons, Shane couldn’t bear the thought of revealing his immoral deeds to his son. In fact, his son held him in high regard.

Shane immediately went to the school to pick him up after arranging for Liliane’s release on medical parole to prevent the exposure of his actions and protect Ben.

“Dad?”

Shane was extremely anxious, but he managed to hide it behind a calm facade. He looked at his potential young man and spoke calmly. “Ben, your grandmother is seriously ill overseas and wishes to see you. I’ve already informed your teachers and taken leave. We’ll be going abroad to visit her.”

“Will Mom be coming too?”

Shane replied solemnly, “Your mom went home to get her passport. We’ll meet her at the airport.”

As Ben sat in the car, he observed his father’s profile and spoke reassuringly. “Dad, don’t worry.

Grandma will be fine. Good things happen to good people.”

Shane’s voice trembled slightly, “Son, your grandmother has always loved you. Perhaps seeing you will improve her condition.”

“Oh, Dad, by the way, I have good news to share.” Ben’s voice carried a hint of excitement.

Shane teased him, “Don’t tell me you’re going to say you’ve been accepted into Capitellum.

University?”

“Dad, how did you know? Did my teacher tell you?” Ben pouted unhappily. “She promised to keep it a secret and let me tell you personally.”

While Shane focused on driving, he explained, “I just guessed. It’s completely reasonable for my exceptional son to be admitted to Capitellum University. If your father doesn’t have confidence in you, then who will?”

“Then let’s not tell Mom yet. She’ll definitely be overjoyed when she finds out.”

Shane reached out and ruffled Ben’s hair, feeling regretful. If only he hadn’t gotten involved in all this and had stayed abroad back then… Would he be fleeing in such a panicked state today?

His marriage had been calculated and arranged by others. However, his son was the greatest gift that resulted from this union. Shane had witnessed his son’s birth, watched him grow, and witnessed his numerous accomplishments that made countless parents envious.

Shane was immensely proud and happy. However… Unstoppable waves of turmoil surged within his heart.