Chapter 1302

"Granduncle, it's my fault! I shouldn't have asked so many questions. Please don't be mad. I'll stop," Austin pleaded.

"Get out of here! Don't you understand?" Dominic roared.

Dominic, finding nothing else handy, grabbed his woven fan and flung it toward Austin. "You brat! Why do you constantly annoy me? Do you think you can dictate my life after all these years? Get out, and don't ever come back!"

Austin dodged the fan, though it posed little real threat. He was deeply concerned by Dominic's ban.

"Granduncle, please don't be angry! I won't ask any more questions, I'm leaving now! Please calm down. It's not good for your health. I'll visit again soon!"

Austin turned and fled, fearing the loss of his granduncle's company. He knew he had to apologize to appease him.

"Get out, you brat!" Dominic bellowed, chasing Austin to the door, fan still in hand, and throwing it at his back.

Once Austin was gone, Dominic leaned against the door, catching his breath. His anger wasn't genuine; he'd only wanted Austin to leave to avoid revealing something. He worried, If Lily's identity leaks, she'll be furious and abandon me forever. I'll be so alone.

Austin sped away, only finding respite in his car. He grabbed a water bottle and drank deeply, regaining his composure. This visit was fruitless. I didn't solve the medication stability problem. Granduncle didn't answer, but his reaction suggests he can solve it. It shouldn't be difficult for him.

He was frustrated, but lacked the courage—and perhaps the opportunity—to return. He stared at the closed gate. Dominic's harshness wasn't new, but today's expulsion was unprecedented. Previously, Dominic would scold him and send him away. Today, however, he was like a cornered lion, berating, striking, and chasing him from the house. It was Lily, Austin concluded, who had provoked his granduncle.

Why was Granduncle so furious when I asked about Lily? Are they enemies instead of friends? He couldn't understand Dominic's outburst, but he was certain Lily was at the root of his misery. It's all her fault! The memory of his recent dismissal from Lily's office flooded back. Ugh, she's so annoying!

His phone rang. An unknown number. He answered curtly.

"Hello?"

His harsh tone startled the caller. After a pause, a cautious voice asked, "Is this Mr. Austin Fike?"