CHAPTER 351: EXPLANATIONS? II

Well, Herbert wasn’t the only one sharing that thought; the president looked too cheerful, too goody-two-shoes. Athena thought, crossing her legs lazily as she observed him. But it’s as Aiden believed—she didn’t think that the powerful man was behind the Grey disease.

Still, it was best not to jump to conclusions without concrete evidence. Until she was certain that all this chaos was over, the president remained on her list of suspects. Him, his cabinet members, and his secret security team.

"Uncle, I understand your frustrations and misgivings when it comes to breaking the legals, considering you’re an astute businessman yourself," Ewan picked up the conversation, voice steady. "But can’t you see we are in a dire situation here? If the twins stay at the hospital, Athena’s research will face constant opposition. They’d have countless opportunities to thwart our recovery efforts."

Herbert sighed tiredly, rubbing his temples. Athena felt a pang of sympathy for him, yet she knew how crucial it was to keep the twins away from the hospital—and if possible, the entire city.

"I understand all that, Ewan. I really do, and I wish I could turn back time," Herbert replied, voice heavy with weariness. "If I do this, I don’t doubt the overzealous twins will take it to court. And since I have no evidence to justify breaking our contract, it looks bad for me. My company might even collapse, especially since we don’t know who’s supporting them."

Ewan opened his mouth to continue pleading, but Herbert raised a hand, signaling him to stop.

"But I will see what I can do," Herbert said after a moment. "I’ll work with my lawyer to find a clause we can use against them. Also..." He paused, a flicker of hope lighting his eyes, stirring something within Athena. Maybe they could find a way around this mountain of trouble.

"I think there’s no explicit clause preventing them from being demoted to a lesser rank," Herbert added, contemplating deeply. His gaze fixed on the table, lost in thought for a brief moment. Then, after only two seconds, he met Athena’s gaze directly.

"Don’t worry, my dear. I think I can fix this. But it might be temporary. You just need to find evidence of their insubordination and cruelty to the nation at large."

Athena smiled, grateful. "Thanks, Herbert. You won’t regret helping us. Now, by the way..."

"Wait, you haven’t told me why Kent operated on you," Herbert interrupted, curiosity piqued. "The bugs, yeah, but what was the purpose? How did you discover the truth?"

Athena raised an innocent brow, but Herbert, persistent, wouldn’t be swayed.

"Come on, Athena. You don’t think you’re going to escape those questions?"

"No," she admitted with a resigned sigh. "As you know, the surgery was to remove the bugs. We found out during a sweep, when Morgan’s men discovered one of our hideouts. Don’t ask for the location—there’s a reason for that." She hurriedly added that last part, eager to dodge further questions.

But did Herbert know Ewan’s second identity as Wolfsbane? Or that of his own son? She narrowed her eyes, contemplating the possibility.

If Herbert was aware, then maybe there was no need to hide all this matter from him. His resources were vast, including some she wasn’t even aware of, and it would be invaluable if he lent them to their cause.

"I see," Herbert muttered, cutting her off before she could press further, before she could make good her choice. "That’s okay. I’m glad you’re okay."

He shifted his gaze to Ewan, who wasn’t sure what to make of it. Was the man planning to grill him soon? He hoped not. And even if he did, Ewan knew he could hold his own ground.

The case might be different, however, if Zane were on the other end of Herbert’s scrutiny. His friend loved his father too much, always fighting to please him. Though the latter wouldn’t agree...

In contrast, Ewan wondered—would Herbert sell them out?

He frowned, keeping his gaze fixed on Herbert. What was there to gain? Nothing, really. He didn’t think Herbert would stoop that low; the male already had everything he desired—power, wealth, influence—except for a grandchild, which he kept reminding Zane about constantly.

"So, is everything regarding Morgan now sorted? Do you think the Grey disease is contained?" Herbert asked, turning his attention back to Athena.

She shrugged. "I’m not sure. Time will tell. But it’s clear someone is backing him up—and until we find and deal with that person, we can’t declare the Grey matter closed. As for the president, he’s not entirely off our trust list, but he’s been helpful so far, I think..."

She inhaled softly, her tone cautious. "As I said earlier, time will tell. We’re just holding our cards close to our chest."

Herbert nodded. "And that’s a good move. On behalf of Whitman Hospitals—and of course, the nation—thank you for doing your part to capture this dangerous criminal."

He chuckled when she made a mock bow, shaking his head when her smile became mischievous.

"You’re welcome, Sir,"

Herbert laughed, the warmth in his voice genuine. "It’s been a while since I saw you like this."

Ewan watched, curiosity flickering within him. The history between Athena and Herbert was a mystery. Zane didn’t even know the full story. He wondered if Aiden was aware. He should be.

The man knew almost everything about Athena—something that probably should have been his own privilege. But, setting aside jealousy, Ewan didn’t think Aiden would share that knowledge. Instead, he suspected Aiden would suggest he meet Athena himself for the truth.

"So, I hear congratulations are in order..." Herbert’s voice broke through Ewan’s thoughts, smooth and jolly.

What was with these men suddenly becoming charming whenever Athena was involved?

"You’re now Miss Thorne... the one they didn’t even know existed. Fate sure is funny. And to think you were so scary before... how terrifying will you be now?"

Athena flashed her teeth, a playful smirk curling her lips. "Scarier. The bogey woman."

This time, Aiden joined in the laughter.