Leopold was in his study at the grand Stirling Mansion, having a serious conversation with Kevin over the phone.
"We’ve dealt with the people in Suite 1503 at Aberystone Silver Ridge Community," he reported. "They were just the messengers, though. No clue where they're keeping Shawn and his wife."
The black-clad enforcers had given the culprits a dose of their specially concocted Agony Pill, ensuring obedience without causing a stir.
On the weekend, Jessica planned a family getaway to Mossy Rock Retreat. Aurelia picked up Leah first and then went to get Skyler.
When they got to Mossy Rock Retreat, Tanya was already there, Sierra in tow.
Guardian Leopold was present, too, though no one would guess his true identity.
"Angel, why aren't William and Kane here?" asked Skyler, thinking they'd beat him to the retreat.
"They're at Uncle Fredric’s house for Nina's birthday party," Aurelia explained.
"Oh." Skyler's face fell a bit. He wanted someone to play with and had been looking forward to Nina's party. He enjoyed the company of kids his age.
Reading his disappointment, Aurelia offered, "Later, Sierra, Leah, and I will play with you."
"Okay." Skyler brightened up.
Leah rolled her eyes. "Skyler, aren't you a teacher from the prestigious Pinnacle Ivy League School? Why are you still acting like a kid?"
Tanya interrupted, "Exactly! You never grew, always thinking about playing, especially with the little ones."
Skyler pouted. "But I am a kid at heart."
Aurelia patted his shoulder. "We all have a child's heart, no matter our age. Most people hide it, but Skyler, you wear yours on your sleeve."
Internally, Tanya snorted. “If your child is always defying you, you wouldn't be so relaxed.”
She had assumed Skyler had no memory, but he knew far more than she had anticipated.
Sometimes, she even suspected he was faking his amnesia. She was overlooking Skyler's intellect. Despite his immature emotions and adult body housing an eight-year-old's heart, his IQ was off the charts with a photographic memory. How could he forget everything?
Skyler slipped on his gloves and picked up a piece of durian to eat.
Meanwhile, Leah was enjoying some mangos.
Aurelia handed Sierra the fruit platter. "Have some fruit, Sierra. Make yourself at home."
"Thank you," Sierra said, picking up a mango.
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