Chapter 734

Derrick sighed heavily and looked out the window over his shoulder. "He's a grown man now, and there's no way I can keep him by my side. He has his own way of thinking. Just let him be."

"No matter what, he should stay by your side now that you're sick," Joseph countered.

Before Joseph could continue, Derrick interrupted. "Forget it. If he doesn't return, then so be it. I'll just pretend I never had a son. I'm getting tired, so you should leave."

Joseph tried to speak, but Derrick had already closed his eyes, looking exhausted. His younger brother rose to say goodbye to Derrick and his wife.

"I'll visit another day. Don't worry about the company; I'll manage it well." He paused, noticing Derrick's eyes remained closed.

Stephanie wiped away her tears. "I'll see you out," she said, following Joseph to the elevator. "I won't go downstairs with you; your brother still needs me. I don't know much about the business, so I'm counting on you both to put in extra effort, okay?"

As she turned to leave, Joseph stopped her. "What did the doctor say about his condition?"

"He's been overworked and needs to recuperate. It shouldn't be too serious," Stephanie replied, sighing and looking down. Although she tried to sound casual, her tears were evident.

"That's good. Then… where did Benedict go? Why don't I call him? I'm still his uncle, after all. Perhaps he'll listen to me."

"No, there's no need!" Stephanie said flusteredly, shaking her head. "He's delayed by something and will be back soon. Don't rush him. Go. Don't worry. I'll be here to take care of your brother."

She turned and headed back to the ward, wiping her tears. Joseph stared at her, lost in thought. It seems it's not that Benedict refuses to return, but that no one can contact him. I sent my men to investigate, but they found nothing. Has he had an accident? If so, it would be a godsend! Joseph was in high spirits as he left the hospital. He felt everything was working in his favor. The ownership of Tanner Corporation seemed within his grasp.

Damian waited for him in his office.

"Dad."

Joseph saw the files in his hands and nodded. "Is the perfume launch ready?"

"Yes, I've completed the plan. I've arranged everything—packaging, marketing, endorsements, and ads. The ad shoot finishes in two days, and I've booked prime-time slots on all major networks. Everything is ready, and we'll sell out!" Damian declared confidently.

"Wonderful!" Joseph happily reviewed the file, impressed by the comprehensive plan. "You did well, Damian! Make sure production can keep up. Tell them to prepare for the perfume launch."

"I already did, Dad," Damian replied with a smile, before his expression faltered. "It's just that…"

"What is it?"

"The budget is a bit…" Damian rubbed his fingers together, indicating a tight budget.