Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 872

Zoltan’s expression darkened as he listened, finally understanding the full scope of their scheme. “Those two boys are audacious,” he said, his voice cold. “Daring to use me as a pawn in such a high-stakes game. Are they not afraid of the consequences when this all comes to light?”

Haskell’s voice remained calm. “That’s why they can’t afford to fail. Even if Sire’s attempt is unsuccessful, they’ll surely have other people ready to strike, determined to see you dead.”

Zoltan studied his grandson, testing him again. “And you? Did you never once suspect that I was responsible for your mother’s death?”

Haskell fell silent for a moment before answering. “The thought crossed my mind, but I had no evidence. I only trust what can be proven.”

“Hmph. Too trusting,” Zoltan snorted. “As you said, there’s no evidence to prove I killed your mother. But there’s also no evidence to prove that I didn’t.”

With that, Zoltan rose from his chair and walked to the window, gazing out at the scenery. “You never met your grandmother, so you wouldn’t know what kind of person she was.”

This sudden change of topic caught Haskell by surprise. He remained silent, sensing that his grandfather had much more to say.

Zoltan’s eyes grew distant as he drifted into his memories. “Your grandmother, though born into wealth, had no interest in business. She was fascinated by mysticism, always dabbling in astrology and fortune-telling. She was the one who pursued me, proposing a marriage alliance because she claimed to have foreseen our destiny—a match made in heaven.”

“So, when your younger brother was born, and a fortune-teller said he would threaten the family’s future prosperity, I ignored your mother’s protests and was determined to send him away. I never imagined your mother would die in an accident because of it.”

He sighed, finally turning back to face Haskell, his gaze deep and heavy. “So, you see, I’ve carried this guilt for years. It’s why I’ve always paid more attention to you, invested more in you than in any of my other grandchildren.”

“And now, discovering that Draven was an imposter, your father’s illegitimate son… my guilt has reached a level I never thought possible. It solidified my decision that no matter what, the position of heir to the Palmer family can only be yours.”