Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 569

Because Haskell held a crucial piece of leverage over the Lincoln family—enough to ensure Lucius wouldn't dare harm his brother.

Although Zoltan didn't know why his grandson was so composed, he trusted him. Aside from being deceived by Draven and Valeria, Haskell had never made a mistake. He didn't press the issue further, only saying, "You can use any of the Palmer family’s resources to find your brother. Otherwise, I'll never be able to face your mother, even in death."

"I understand," Haskell said.

Zoltan's gaze returned to the chessboard. "Also, next month is the Palmer family's annual meeting."

Haskell's hand, holding a piece, paused.

Every December, the Palmers held a family meeting at the old mansion. All the descendants managing the various subsidiary companies would gather to present their year-end reports. Poor performance could result in dismissal by Zoltan. Consequently, everyone scrambled to boost their numbers in the final months to win his approval. Haskell himself had earned his place at the head office after delivering stellar results at a subsidiary, which had given him the standing to request Draven be brought back to the family.

But while the main company had thrived for the first three quarters, its performance had declined in the last. The month Haskell had been incapacitated and left the company to Draven had taken a significant toll on Palmer Group. Even after his return, many investors remained cautious.

"You have a little over a month to turn things around," Zoltan said. "Don't give the others an excuse to use this, or your legs, against you.

I hope for a trifecta of good fortune for the family: first, the official announcement of your succession; second, the recovery of your legs; and third, your marriage to that fine girl, Larissa."

"That's what my mom said. She wants to make me the most unique person in the world," Larissa said, then sighed happily. "I'm becoming a total mama's girl, always talking about 'my mom.' It’s true what they say—a child with a mother is a treasure."

"You are a treasure," Haskell said suddenly, his eyes full of sincerity.

Seeing him so serious, Larissa burst out laughing. "Why so earnest all of a sudden?"

"I just want to make sure you always know how I feel," he said softly. "You're not one to openly show affection, so I have to keep reminding you how much I like you."