Kayden’s father had been John’s benefactor, a man who had once changed John’s life. Even though John’s heyday had long passed, leaving him in a state of obscurity and hardship, his respect for Ambrose Scott remained unwavering. That era of greatness had left a permanent mark on his life.
Whenever John thought about Ambrose Scott’s tragic death, it would inevitably stir up memories he tried to bury deep within himself-memories laced with sorrow and regret.
These were things Kayden had never known. He had been too young at the time, unaware of the storm that had unfolded around his family.
“So, you’re saying it was those strange actions by the businesses that indirectly led to my father’s death?” Kayden asked, his voice steady but sharp.
John nodded slightly. “Yes. Those people used to fawn over the Scott family, treating any partnership with them as a blessing, something they couldn’t dream of achieving in a hundred lifetimes. But their sudden decision to sever ties with your family was abrupt and inexplicable. It’s something I’ve never been able to understand, even to this day.”
Kayden’s expression turned cautious. “So, my father’s death is closely tied to their strange behavior.”
John nodded again. “Indeed, I believe so. I’ve spent years investigating what happened back then. Mr. Scott was incredibly kind to me, and I can’t rest until I uncover the truth behind his death. Fortunately, persistence pays off-I finally found traces of one of the people who abandoned Mr. Scott in his time of need.”
As he spoke, John stepped away and retrieved a file folder, placing it gently on the table in front of Kayden.
He sighed and said, “When I first met you, I thought you were a castaway abandoned by your family, someone drifting aimlessly without purpose. That’s why I didn’t tell you any of this-because I thought it would make no difference. But now, I see you’re not that kind of person. You have the same spirit, the same courage as your father. That’s why I’ve decided to tell you everything.”
John’s eyes were resolute as he continued, “I may not have the ability to investigate much further, but you do. I only ask one thing-find out the truth and share it with me. That way, I can live out the rest of my days in peace.”
Kayden was moved as he looked at John’s serious expression. This was the same loyal man who had once stood by his father’s side, unwavering even in the face of tragedy. Despite his years of hardship, John had never stopped searching for answers.
The file in front of Kayden was worn, clearly kept safe for a long time. It was something even May and Emma likely didn’t know about.
John’s determination, despite his struggles, deeply touched Kayden.
“Why?” Kayden asked, his voice low. “Why go to such lengths after all these years? What good does this do you?”
John let out a cold laugh. “Good? Young master, you misunderstand me. I’m not doing this for any personal gain. I’m doing it for the man I respected most in this world. It may seem insignificant, but I’ll do whatever I can.”
This reverence wasn’t something John could put into words. Kayden understood it, though. He had seen it before-the way his father had inspired loyalty and admiration in those around him.
It was the same loyalty the Zodiac Generals had shown when they tirelessly searched for him after his disappearance.
Looking at John, Kayden felt a surge of gratitude. Perhaps his father, watching from above, would feel comforted by this scene.
Kayden accepted the file with a slight nod. “Thank you, Uncle Baker.”
“No, this is what I should do. I believe you’ll uncover the truth, young master,” John replied, his eyes brimming with emotion.
“I will,” Kayden promised, his voice firm as he placed a hand on John’s shoulder.
After leaving John, Kayden opened the file. Inside was a brief profile of a man.
The man’s name was Maddox Hale, though he had previously been known as Kieran Ashford. He currently resided in Zlando and had reappeared there after a five-year disappearance. Those five years were a complete blank-no one knew where he had been or what he had done.
Now, Maddox Hale was the CEO of Cedarwood Enterprises, a publicly traded company.
Kayden closed the file, committing the name to memory. He would find this man and uncover the truth.
As he arrived at the hotel entrance, he saw a woman waiting for him from a distance. It was Mrs. Rocco.
She was seated on a chair in front of the hotel, wearing a plush fur coat that drew the attention of everyone around her. Whether they were passersby or hotel guests, she became the center of their gaze.
The hotel owner had been fussing over her all afternoon, bringing tea and water as he wondered who she was waiting for.
She had been waiting since three in the afternoon, and now it was evening. Whoever she was waiting for must be incredibly important. The hotel owner had even checked all the hotel guests, but none seemed to fit the bill.
When Kayden finally appeared, Mrs. Rocco’s face lit up. She stood gracefully and greeted him with a sweet smile, “Mr. Scott, you’re finally back!”
Kayden looked her over and asked, “Savannah, were you waiting for me?”
Mrs. Rocco nodded. “Yes, I’ve been waiting for you since three this afternoon.”
The hotel owner was stunned as he watched the two converse. He had been envious of Kayden already-this out-of-towner had been walking around with a stunning woman, drawing attention wherever he went.
The owner couldn’t understand it. Sure, Kayden was good-looking, but what was his secret? How had he managed to win over such a beauty? And now, Mrs. Rocco had waited five hours for him.
Could it be that Kayden had some secret charm?
Mrs. Rocco broke the silence. “What are you standing there for? Aren’t you going to invite me into your room? Or are you hiding someone in there?”
Her voice carried a teasing tone as she added, “Are you keeping a beauty hidden away?”