Chapter 1407

Dominic was speechless, subconsciously touching his chin. "Pull my ass, you punk!" he exclaimed. "Hahaha!"

About an hour later, Dominic felt tired, but Lily hadn't returned from the backyard. He lay in his rattan chair near the pile of toys, watching Galen while drowsiness crept over him. He forced himself to stay awake, however, fearing his precious plants and herbs might vanish while he slept. That would be far worse than a beard-pulling.

Just as his eyelids fluttered shut, a subordinate reported, "Mr. Dominic, the young master is here!"

"Which young master? Isn't he here?" Dominic looked toward the toys, shocked to find Galen gone.

"No, Mr. Austin!" the maid replied.

Dominic, however, cared little. "I don't care who came! Find that punk right now! No, find the kid!" he snapped. He muttered to himself, 'He's still here, and I didn't fall asleep... or did I? I'm getting old and forgetful!' He dispatched his servants to search for Galen, calling out, "Oh, Galen!" and "Oh, baby!"

Everyone forgot Austin was waiting, their attention riveted on the search for Galen. Austin, having waited a considerable time without being admitted, assumed Dominic was still angry about their last meeting. He pondered how to appease him before inquiring about the toxin in Anastasia's body.

Austin found Anastasia's case exceedingly complex. It wasn't the toxicity of the poison itself, but its multifaceted nature that presented such a challenge. A single toxin would allow him to focus on a single antidote, but several—though none lethal—were present. He wondered about the perpetrator. Anastasia came from a prominent, well-connected family. How had she acquired such a complex mixture of toxins? This, coupled with his stalled lab work, prompted him to seek Dominic's advice. Eventually, receiving no response, he found the door unlocked and cautiously entered.

To his surprise, the yard was deserted. Not a single servant was in sight; not even the guard. Maids usually cleaned, gardeners tended the plants. This emptiness was unusual. While sensing something odd, he disregarded it and proceeded to the residence.

Upon reaching the central area, he saw people bent over, apparently searching, and shouting something. He couldn't hear clearly until he drew closer. "Young master! Where are you?"

Austin was confused. 'Young master? Me?' "Hey, I'm here!" he called out.