**TITLE: HereSelf 546**
**CONTENT: Chapter 546 The Witch Doctor**
Natalie’s greatest strength lay not in her perfection but in her unwavering resolve to rectify her missteps. This quality was something that defined her, a beacon of hope in times of turmoil.
As she spoke these words, Baron chose not to press the matter further. He recognized that engaging in a debate would only lead to unnecessary tension. Instead, he observed the scene unfolding around them.
Meanwhile, Beth had completed her packing with a swift efficiency that came from necessity. The place they were leaving was merely a rented space, and Baron had specifically instructed Shauna to secure a fully furnished unit to accommodate their needs. With the essentials packed—just a few articles of clothing—there was little left to do.
“I’m all set. Can we leave now?” Beth’s voice rang out, a mixture of eagerness and impatience.
“Just a moment,” Baron replied, his tone calm but firm.
Natalie was determined not to let anything disturb Holt, who was deeply engrossed in his artistic endeavor.
In truth, Holt was entirely captivated by his drawing, oblivious to the conversations swirling around him. He seemed to be in a world entirely of his own making, where colors and shapes danced on the page, creating a sanctuary away from reality.
Natalie crept closer, her curiosity piqued. As she peered at the paper, she was struck by the emerging portrait. The likeness of a person was materializing before her eyes, and an inexplicable sense of recognition washed over her.
Her brow furrowed slightly, a hint of confusion etching itself across her features.
Beth, noticing the change in Natalie’s expression, misinterpreted it as concern over Holt’s skill. “Ms. Stone, don’t worry! Holt is still quite young. His talent will blossom with time, I promise!” she said, trying to reassure.
“Shh—” Natalie urged, her finger pressed to her lips, signaling for silence.
Holt worked with remarkable speed. Though he had never undergone formal training, his innate style was raw and intuitive. Yet, despite his lack of experience, Natalie could see the figure he was capturing.
“He’s drawing the Witch Doctor,” she stated, her voice barely above a whisper.
At those words, Baron’s heart skipped a beat, his pulse quickening. He stepped forward, urgency propelling him, and confirmed that indeed, Holt was sketching him—complete with the mask that concealed his identity.
This little brat actually recognized me?
Baron’s eyes instinctively locked onto Holt, who, sensing an undercurrent of tension, felt a chill run down his spine. The boy dropped his brush, startled, and looked up to meet Baron’s piercing gaze.
His complexion paled, a wave of anxiety washing over him.
Is this really the uncle who treated me? Why does he look so menacing right now?
Yet, deep down, Holt trusted his instincts.
To Holt, this place felt foreign, never truly a home; it reminded him of the basement James had constructed for him—a mere temporary shelter, devoid of warmth.
Watching her son’s demeanor, Beth felt a sharp ache in her heart. Just two years prior, her son had been a bundle of joy, full of laughter and affection, snuggling close and asking for hugs. Now, he radiated a cold indifference that kept everyone at arm’s length, a stark contrast that left her feeling utterly desolate.
Baron and Natalie exited the complex first, leading Beth and her son to the car, which felt like a bridge to somewhere safer.
The vehicle sped back to the villa, the familiar scenery whirling past them.
As they arrived, Westin was quick to approach Baron, his expression a mix of urgency and respect.
“Mr. Baron, I’ve heard there are two operations scheduled for tonight. Which one should I accompany?” he inquired, ready for action.
“You’ll be with my father-in-law and the others. Your responsibility is to ensure their safety. Remember, until the police make their move, neither our team nor the Stone family can act first. Is that clear?” Baron instructed, his voice steady and authoritative.
Westin nodded vigorously, understanding the weight of his task.
Meanwhile, Natalie ushered Beth and Holt inside, intending to locate the butler to arrange accommodations for them. Just then, a soft sound broke the silence—Susie had woken up, her cries echoing through the air.

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