Vanessa didn''t want to go. She clung to Frank''s leg, crying and screaming that her brother had told her to push Emma, that she was only doing what he said.


    Frank wanted to send both Vanessa and Eden abroad. But Mrs. Thompson Sr. refused to let go of her grandson, threatening to kill herself right in front of Frank if he dared send the boy away.


    In the end, Frank only sent Vanessa abroad.


    Recently, Carol passed away in the mental institution, and shortly after, Vanessa returned to the country.


    Yesterday, Mrs. Thompson Sr. brought Vanessa to the Thompson estate and caused another scene. That was when Emma learned there was more to the story of her premature birth and near-fatal hemorrhage—a truth Frank had hidden from her for nearly thirty years to protect his illegitimate son.


    Ovee with rage and shock, Emma had fainted.


    "You could havee back anytime, but you wait until Carol dies. What, you think death cancels all debts? That you can finallye back and im your ce as a Thompson heiress?"


    Bet flicked the ash from his cigarette, his sharp gaze seeming to see right through her. "Dredging up a thirty-year-old mess now... the goal is clearly to target my mother, create chaos in the family, and give you and your brother a chance to slip in. The clicking of your abacus is practically ringing in my ears. You two must think you''re incredibly clever, treating everyone else like fools."


    Bet''s eyes were filled with contempt. He stubbed out his cigarette in the crystal ashtray on the table. Then, he stood up coolly and looked at Mr. Thompson Sr. "Shall we eat? I have to be back at the base this afternoon. I don''t have time to watch this melodrama."


    Mr. Thompson Sr. shot a cold re at Mrs. Thompson Sr. and Vanessa before his stern, aged eyes finally settled on Bet.


    "Let''s go. Since you have work, don''t drinkter."


    With that, Mr. Thompson Sr. rose first and headed toward the dining hall.


    It was a rare family gathering after the holidays, and the reunion dinner wasvish, featuring many specialty foods not avable to the public.


    The only alcohol on the table was a 106-proof single malt scotch; there was no wine or anything lighter.


    Mr. Thompson Sr. took the head of the table, with the others seating themselves in order of precedence His sons sat on either side of him followed by his grandsons. The daughters-inw and children sat at the far end.


    Mrs. Thompson Sr. led Vanessa and her family to the empty seats. Andy, likely prompted by his parents, was now sitting quietly next to Noah''s daughter.


    Once everyone was seated, Mr. Thompson Sr. was the first to pick up his utensils, taking a piece of fish. Only then could the others begin to eat.


    The Thompsons didn''t have a strict ''no talking at the table'' rule, but Mr. Thompson Sr., having spent a lifetime in the military, was a stern and imposing figure. None of the younger generation dared to speak out of turn in his presence.


    Mr. Thompson Sr. served himself some food and turned to speak with his eldest


    son, discussing mostly military matters that no one else could contribute to.


    Tobias now held the rank of Major General, but when questioned by his


    father, he was more cautious than


    when being briefed by a superior, choosing his words with extreme care.


    After his questioning, Mr. Thompson Sr. raised his small liquor ss. Tobias


    immediately raised his as well, drinking with him.