The Heiress Nobody Saw Coming (Natalie and Marcus) novel Chapter 543

Sheldon let out a terrified scream. His legs gave out, and he collapsed to his knees.

William rushed inside. The moment he saw the scene before him, he froze in shock.

"Someone help! Hurry! Hector, Nat, come quickly!" William shouted.

At that moment, Natalie and Marcus were on the fifth floor. She thought she heard someone calling her name, but the sound was fleeting and quickly faded.

Hector hadn't gone far. The moment he heard William's urgent cry, he sprinted toward the study.

"Hector, save Mr. Holden Senior. Quickly, Sheldon, call Marcus right now," William commanded without hesitation. His voice was swift and steady.

"Yes, yes," Sheldon stammered. He was too shaken to think. All he could do was follow orders.

His hands trembled as he fumbled with his phone. It took him several attempts to press the right buttons. When he finally got through, the moment he heard Marcus' voice, he broke down in sobs.

"Mr. Marcus, come to the study right away. Mr. Holden Senior, he…"

He couldn't finish the sentence.

The call abruptly ended.

On the fifth floor, Marcus grabbed Natalie's hand and bolted from the room.

He couldn't wait for the elevator and instead took the stairs, racing down with Natalie following closely behind. She didn't ask any questions, keeping pace with him the entire way.

When they arrived at the study, Hector had already finished performing emergency treatment. But it was too late.

Natalie immediately recognized it as the moment of lucidity before death. His final burst of life.

Marcus rushed to Charles' side. His eyes were bloodshot, and tears streamed silently down his cheeks.

"Marcus, make the most of this moment," Hector said softly, unsure of what to say, but he had to say something.

He stepped back to make room. Marcus moved forward and carefully cradled Charles in his arms. His voice was hoarse as he spoke.

"Grandpa, you just promised us that you would help plan out the engagement ceremony."

His tears fell without sound, one after another.

"You promised Nat and me. You can't go back on your word."

Charles raised a trembling hand. Marcus immediately lowered his head so that his grandfather's fingers could brush against his face.

"Marcus, I'm sorry," Charles whispered as tears slipped from his own eyes. "This is my fault. I broke my promise."

He continued, "Marcus, when I'm gone, you must live well. You and Nat must be happy. You must never hurt the one you love. Never betray them.

"My life has been a failure. A complete failure. But at least I have you. You're my best and most outstanding grandson. Having you is enough."

Charles' tears streamed down his wrinkled face, but there was a gentle smile on his lips as Marcus held him.

"Marcus, forgive me. I'm going ahead. I won't get to see you marry or have children. I broke my promise. That's my fault. Please don't blame me."

Marcus sobbed uncontrollably. He shook his head vigorously, unable to make a sound.

"Marcus, raising you has been the greatest joy and achievement of my life," Charles said, his gaze filled with love and pride. You're exceptional, and I'm proud of you.