Chapter 1656

Michelle’s face paled at Dominic’s words, though relief at the possibility of her son’s survival warred with the unsettling mention of a corpse.

“I’ve already sent someone to search for him. I’ll inform you immediately,” Dominic said, taking a sip of tea. He paused, noticing everyone’s intense gaze. “What?!” he exclaimed. “I already said I’d tell you if I hear anything!”

“Dom, thank you so much!” Daniel cried, his voice thick with emotion. “I knew you wouldn’t let him die!” Elijah echoed his gratitude.

Dominic waved them off impatiently. “Enough! Stop it! Don’t show up at my door again! I can’t stand all this crying and wailing. And you, Daniel! What are you doing, running around like this at your age? If something happens to you, whose fault will it be?!”

“I know my limits!” Daniel replied cheerfully.

“You do, but I don’t! Next time, I won’t let you in. How annoying!” Dominic took a large gulp of tea.

Daniel nodded. “Okay, we won’t bother you. Please tell us immediately if you hear anything.”

“Yes, yes, I know! Why are you so long-winded?” Dominic grumbled.

The family left, delighted despite the lack of concrete news about Austin. Dominic’s willingness to help, and the assurance of Austin’s survival, was enough for now.

But a dark cloud settled over Dominic once they were gone. The situation was far more complex than it appeared. Austin’s predicament was perilous; the organization involved was vast and powerful, far more intricate than a simple terrorist group. Dominic couldn’t determine the extent of foreign involvement. And then there was Lily—he’d heard nothing, and had no idea of her situation. Finally, there was the virus.

Silence descended before Galen’s soft voice broke through. “Grandpa…” Only the child’s presence could soothe Dominic’s turmoil. He lifted Galen onto his lap. Looking at the little boy’s face, he asked, “Hey, kid, do you miss Mommy?”

Galen nodded. “Mhm. When will Mommy come back?”

“I don’t know. I think she’ll be back soon,” Dominic sighed. “Until your mother returns, we have each other. I’ll take good care of you, as long as you’re good, okay?” The uncertainty weighed heavily on him. If anything happened to Galen, Dominic wouldn't know how to face himself. They were safe in the manor, but he couldn’t guarantee Galen’s safety outside its walls.

“Okay!” Galen nodded obediently.

Dominic breathed a sigh of relief. “Come, let’s go see the pigeons!”

Galen’s face lit up. He grabbed Dominic’s hand, giggling. The old man and the young boy walked out into the backyard, leaving their worries behind for a moment.