Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 500

“Absolutely,” Haskell confirmed.

Rage flashed in Zoltan’s eyes. He slammed the piece down on the table.

“So that fortune teller who said your brother would bring bad luck—that was your father’s doing as well?”

Haskell remained silent, which was an answer in itself.

“Your father can spend the rest of his life rotting in that facility for all I care!” Zoltan wasn’t particularly bothered by his son having illegitimate children. But to scheme against his own family, to manipulate him, to get his way? That was unforgivable. Who knew what Thatch would plot next for the sake of his bastards? His own life? After all, he had already plotted against the life of his own son.

Once his anger subsided, a wave of guilt washed over him. He looked at Haskell. “Have you found any trace of your real brother?”

It was his order, after all, that had sent the infant Draven away, giving Thatch the opportunity to make the switch.

Haskell swept the piece from the board. “No. Thatch denies everything.”

“Of course he does!” Zoltan’s face was grim. “I will have my own people investigate your brother’s whereabouts.”

“Thank you, Grandpa.”

“I’ve lost every game tonight. I’m done,” Zoltan said, rising and leaving the study.

Haskell followed in his wheelchair, watching as the butler escorted his grandfather to his room before heading toward his own quarters in the rear courtyard.

He saw Larissa’s message and replied.

[I was just playing chess with my grandfather.]

Her response was quick:

“I’m sorry, Mom. I’m sorry I failed you and my brother,” Haskell whispered, his fingers tracing the blurred faces in the photograph. His voice was low but firm. “But I promise you, as long as I’m alive, I will find him. And if he’s gone, I will make sure Thatch joins him in death.”

Outside, the leaves rustled in the wind, as if in reply.

Haskell placed the photo back in the drawer and closed it.

…

The next day, after being discharged from the hospital, Finley didn’t move in with Leopold. Instead, he rented his own apartment and immediately contacted a director widely considered to be even more talented than Benedict.

He hadn’t approached this director before because the man had retired from the industry years ago due to health issues after filming five critically acclaimed series.

But now, desperate for his sister’s forgiveness, he knew he had to convince him to return.