Together, the two of them forced the reporters back. They led me toward the hotel entrance, fending off the cameras and flashing lights.
Only when we were almost outside did the security team finally show up, jogging toward us in a frenzy. Elroy trailed behind them, his face plastered with guilt and panic.
“Dean, I’m so sorry—this is all my fault. I didn’t monitor things thoroughly. Someone must’ve switched the VCR when I turned.”
He rubbed the back of his neck, “I ran off to get security as soon as I noticed, but I was too late. Are you okay? I can't believe they actually laid hands on you…”
He reached toward me, trying to touch my scar and the moment he touched me, I let out a terrified scream.
Sharon, worried I might hurt Elroy, immediately called over the medics to inject a sedative.
The drug kicked in quickly. I passed out in her arms.
When I opened my eyes again, I was already in a hospital room.
Outside the door, I could faintly hear voices.
“Mom, you planned it so well today. After that mess, Dad’s reputation is completely destroyed. There’s no way he can ever fight Uncle Elroy for the company again!”
“But do we still have to pay those reporters to spread the footage?” she added.
Sharon paused for a second, but her voice was firm.
“Yes. His reputation’s already in ruins. Might as well land the final blow. Worst case, we just treat him a little nicer later as ‘compensation.’”
Their conversation hit me like lightning.
I finally understood why Sharon had called me over to bring her medication—it was all part of her plan. She made sure I came here under the pretense of delivering medication. But her real goal was painfully clear now: to ruin my reputation as the rightful heir and clear the path for her lover.
Tears streamed down my face and that’s when Sharon walked in and caught me.
With a face full of sympathy, she gently wiped my tears. “Don’t worry, Dean. It’s over now. I’ve already told them to delete the video. It won’t spread.”
Willow threw her arms around me, crying. “Daddy, I promise I’ll drink milk every day from now on so I can grow up strong. I’m gonna protect you. I won’t let anyone hurt you ever again!”
I gave a bitter smile at how convincing they looked—so full of concern and care.