When Laurinda brought up Kevin’s name, Renata’s eyes brightened. She lowered her voice, almost whispering, “You mean the illegitimate son?”
Laurinda shot her a sharp look. “Don’t call him that. Kevin is the real matriarch’s grandson. Taylor only got the inheritance by playing dirty. Things should go back to how they’re supposed to be.”
“Alright, I’ll let Laird’s side of the family know what you want. Kevin’s going to be happy to see you.” Renata hurried out, but as she opened the door, she nearly collided with Egan.
He caught her by the shoulders, steadying her. There was a hint of laughter in his voice. “Where are you rushing off to?”
“Got important stuff to handle. No time to chat,” Renata said quickly, stepping past him and disappearing down the hallway.
Egan watched her go, curious about what had her so energized. He walked into the hospital room and glanced at Adolphus, still unconscious in the bed. He spoke quietly. “How’s he doing?”
“I’m planning to bring him back home to see Balaam,” Laurinda replied. “How are things for you? Are you heading back with us or staying here longer?”
Laurinda had never really asked Egan about what he and his team were up to at Mistfall Atoll. She just knew they’d been making big moves.
Egan looked worried when he realized Laurinda was taking Adolphus away. “Is he not doing well?”
“The doctors say the surgery went fine, his brain waves are normal, but he just won’t wake up. We talked about it and decided to try another doctor. Balaam is amazing. I really think he might have a way to help.”
Egan listened and agreed. Taking Adolphus home sounded like the right call.
“When are you leaving?” he asked.
After lunch, Egan made up his mind to go back with Laurinda. Felix’s birthday was coming up in a week, and with Adolphus like this, there was no way he’d be able to attend. Egan would go home and take care of things in his place.
“Laurinda, I’ll go back with you. Are we landing in Apex, or heading to Cabinda?”
“Cabinda,” Laurinda said. “Once we’re on the plane, I’ll have someone bring Balaam over. I already talked to Sam at the hospital, and he’ll keep everything confidential. I don’t want too many people knowing Adolphus got hurt.”
Egan was impressed by how prepared she was. “Thanks for handling all this, Laurinda.”
Laurinda checked the time, stood up, and said calmly, “It’s about time. Let’s go.”
She walked over to Adolphus’s bed, tucked in the blanket around him, then led Egan out of the room.

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