Jessica's voice was sober, "Let's cut to the chase. I'll lay it all out for you. Leopold had everything planned out long before any of this mess started. As for who would be his right-hand man, he made his choice clear. If anything happens to him, the lawyers will announce his decision immediately, and it's not up for debate. And Skyler, he's taken care of too. He won't miss out on what's rightfully his."
Hanson shuddered visibly at her words, "Do you have any idea what these arrangements are?"
Jessica sighed, the weight of the world seeming to settle on her shoulders, "You should know better than anyone that Leopold's always been a closed book, even to me."
Tanya's lips quivered slightly at that revelation. Leopold was indeed as cunning as a fox.
"Did he tell Aurelia?" she asked, her voice edged with curiosity, "After all, she is Kane's biological mother."
Jessica waved a dismissive hand, "They're divorced. Aurelia's no longer part of the Stirling family. She's out of the loop, so why would he share anything with her?"
The shadows deepened on Hanson's face, and he asked, "Jessica, when can we see Leopold?"
"He's in a sterile room right now, weak and not to be disturbed," Jessica explained with a note of finality, "Once he's stronger and out of isolation, you'll have your chance."
She paused, then added, "Hanson, don't fret too much. Leopold's got Heninger's blood running through him. He's bound to look out for our interests. I trust he'll do what's best."
"Let's hope so," Hanson replied, exhaling a heavy breath.
Outside in the garden.
Kane was teaching Skyler how to play chess, while Aurelia watched them with a mix of interest and concern.
"You're always here, Kane. Don't you get bored not going out with everyone else?" Skyler asked, his brows knit together in worry.
Kane shook his head with a grin, "Not at all. I've got tons to do. Plus, you and William can always swing by Stirling Mansion to hang out."
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