His Ex-Wife Is A Billionaire (Evadne and Thaddeus) novel Chapter 805

The uninvited guest, a walking cloud of gloom, had finally left, allowing the Fairhaven funeral to proceed without further disturbance.

Members of the Ashbourne family paid their respects to Barry one by one. With a somber expression, Emeric approached Jareth and spoke with a gentle voice,

"Jareth, my heart goes out to you. Mr. Hamilton called me last night to express his regrets. He's been feeling under the weather and couldn't make it. He plans to pay his respects to Barry at the cemetery when he's feeling better."

Thaddeus listened, his emotions a complex tapestry – concern for his grandfather's health mixed with relief that Hamilton genuinely cared about Jareth.

"Thank you, Mr. Emeric. I understand Mr. Hamilton's intentions," Jareth said, his eyes shimmering with gratitude, his tone respectful.

He knew an excuse when he heard one. After all, the Fairhaven family had been a thorn in Marilla's side, nearly costing her life.

Even if Hamilton bore no grudge, his attendance at the funeral could have stirred unwanted drama for the Fairhavens, attracting unwanted scrutiny.

Cassius and Arnold stepped forward to offer their condolences. Jareth, now without kin, felt an unfamiliar warmth amidst the Ashbournes. He had found a new family, siblings to stand with. No longer would he walk alone, burdened by hatred.

"Let me take you home, Dad," Evadne said, gently supporting her father's arm.

"I'm alright, Evadne. Surrounded by friends here," Emeric reassured her, patting her hand before whispering, "The Fairhavens are alone now; they need someone to help manage things, especially today. Stay with Jareth, you and Thaddeus are his closest friends."

Touched, Evadne nodded, her eyes moist.

"Mr. Emeric, allow me to escort you to your car," Thaddeus offered, ever the attentive son-in-law-to-be.

Emeric agreed, "Yes, let Thaddeus take me."

Emeric's appearance was his first public outing since his retreat from the limelight due to health concerns. To support Jareth, he had returned with a flourish, naturally becoming the focus of the media frenzy.

To divert the attention, the Ashbourne matriarchs, shielded by bodyguards, were the first to leave in their cars. Emeric, however, took his time, facing the press with his sons and son-in-law by his side,

"Thank you all for your concern about my health. I am well now, fully recovered. Today we bid farewell to Barry, and it's comforting to see so many here to honor his journey to the beyond."