Chapter 653

Last month, Derrick said he would be traveling on business. He was gone for several days and had just returned. Was he gone again already? He had been traveling so frequently lately that Joseph had lost track.

His current focus was on Damian, and he felt obligated to support him. While Joseph still hoped his mistress would join them, he hadn't made concrete plans.

"Yes!"

Arianna was surprised. "Didn't you know?"

"How would I know? I haven't seen him recently," Joseph snorted, then asked, "By the way, do you know what Derrick has been busy with lately? Does the company have any major projects? Why is he always traveling?"

The truth was, Joseph was entirely unsuited for business. Despite his ambition, he was no match for Derrick's capabilities. However, Benedict, Derrick's only son, was uninterested in business. Seeing an opportunity, Joseph wanted to gain control of the Tanner property for Damian's inheritance.

"I'm not sure. There's nothing major requiring Uncle Derrick to make so many trips in person. I asked his secretary, but she didn't know either. In fact, I heard"

Her voice softened, and her mysterious demeanor piqued Joseph's curiosity. "What did you hear?"

She looked around, gestured for a servant to leave, and whispered in her father's ear, "Actually, I heard Uncle Derrick was in a rush because of Benedict's problems. His health isn't good; he was actually hospitalized when he said he was on business. It's a secret, so nobody talks about it."

"Really?" Joseph was stunned, though skeptical. As siblings, how could he not know if Derrick was hospitalized?

"I don't know if it's true, but it seems plausible. The company doesn't have any major projects requiring Uncle Derrick's personal attention, yet he's been traveling frequently. He didn't look well a while ago, and everyone noticed."

Arianna continued, "There's no update on Benedict. Maybe Uncle Derrick got angry and sick because of it."

Though initially doubtful, Joseph found her explanation increasingly reasonable.

"If it's true, we must act," he nodded thoughtfully. "I'll ask your mother to visit Aunt Stephanie tomorrow to find out what's happening. If this is true, it's our chance!"

Arianna laughed. Joseph continued, "You must also take care of your brother's affairs and help him get established in the company as soon as possible. Helping him now is helping yourselves. Soon, he'll control the entire family. When you marry, you won't be bullied in your husband's family because you'll have us to support you!"

Arianna laughed and teased, "Dad, can't I be my own support?"

Joseph frowned and shook his head. "You're a woman; you'll still depend on your family. Take good care of your brother, because he'll be part of our family in the future."

"Okay, I see," Arianna replied with a soft smile.