The CEO’S Unplanned Heir novel (Aurelia and Leopold) novel Chapter 1180

"It's probably just the end-of-year rush at the office," Leopold said casually, covering for Fredric.

In truth, Jelena had gone abroad for a trip, and he'd tagged along.

Nina sighed to herself. She and Mira felt like they'd been left behind like kids during summer camp.

But at least they had Kane and Skyler to keep them company, so they weren't too downhearted.

"People always sing about how great moms are, but you never hear the same about dads. There's a reason for that," she said.

"My dad is awesome," Kane chimed in.

"My dad is the best in the world," William added.

Skyler took a sip of his soup, saying, "My dad is not too bad either, just always swamped with work at the office."

Nina pulled a face. "Well, moms are still better. Ninety percent of moms are great, but only fifty percent of dads make the cut."

Skyler shrugged. "Maybe it's something to do with mammalian biology. Most male animals don't stick around to raise the kids."

Nina puffed her cheeks. "Bird dads are super responsible, looking after the mom and the chicks. Mammals could learn a thing or two. What a letdown!"

Mira nodded her head to the beat. "Mammals aren't necessarily smarter than birds. Birds can mimic human speech, can't they? Mammals sure can't."

"Right," Nina agreed. "Bird dads are faithful. They don't cheat or betray their families. Humans are pitiful in comparison, not even up to bird standards."

Leopold choked on his drink as the conversation took a wild turn.

"What you're talking about only applies to some humans. Most are decent. There are bad eggs in every species, including mammals, birds, humans alike."

"My bird is super smart and says all kinds of stuff. I'll bring him over tomorrow to play," William said, trying to lighten the mood.

After dinner, William sneaked into Kane's room to ask, "Do you and Uncle Leopold still visit that place often?"

Kane nodded solemnly, "Every year on Liam's day, we clean his grave and make offerings. Dad and grandma really care about Liam."

A pang hit William. Maybe there was a point in reclaiming his identity.

Otherwise, Leopold would keep visiting a stranger's grave each year.

"If I come back, will they... remove the grave?"

Kane understood. "Of course, they'll take down the grave and move the kid to a public cemetery. Only Stirling family members get buried in the family plot."

William scratched his head.

"I don't want to go tomorrow. It's creepy to pay respects to myself when I'm alive and kicking."