Steve quickly stated, “Father, I’m here to discuss the family’s concerns, and I assure you it won’t be difficult at all.”


    “Excellent!” Howard replied, clearly pleased with his son’s demeanor. “You don’t need to remain in Aurous Hill any longer. Today, the Hogwitz family received word from the kidnappers that both the father and son are not in Aurous Hill but rather at sea. You can start preparing to return as soon as possible.”


    Steve was already aware of Charlie Wade’s n, so he wasn’t taken aback by this news. However, he feigned frustration and eximed, “Those damn kidnappers! I assumed they were hiding the victims in Aurous Hill. I nearly tore the ce apart, only to discover they had relocated them. How devious!”<fn3f9b> Checktest chapters at FindN()vel</fn3f9b>


    “It’s alright,” Howard reassured him with a smile. “Letting you leave is primarily a gesture for the coteral families, showing them that we care. As the designated heir and the second most crucial member of our family, your personal involvement in helping them find the missing individuals is a significant honor. This situation has shown that your inability was not the issue; it was simply a matter of incorrect intelligence, so you can return without any concerns.”


    “Understood, Father,” Steve replied. “Since everything is fine in Aurous Hill now, I will prepare to return and see you as soon as I can.”<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    “Good,” Howard responded, satisfied. “When you return, we will host a banquet to entertain the coteral families and further reinforce their gratitude and reliance on us. This will also establish a solid foundation for your future inheritance of the family.”


    Steve quickly expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Dad! I appreciate all your efforts!”


    Internally, however, Steve was cursing himself, thinking, “You speak so piously, but are you merely trying to trick me into epting the role of the so-called designated heir? If you can manage to live another 50 years, you’ll ensure I don’t be the patriarch for the next 49. I’d be better off relying on Charlie Wade than on my biological father.”


    After exchanging a few courteous remarks with his father over the phone, Steve ended the call and quickly reached out to Charlie Wade.


    At that moment, Charlie Wade was driving to Zijin Vi. Just ten minutes prior, Lin Wan’er had sent him a message, sharing that there were some new leads and inviting him to Zijin Vi for a discussion. Thoughtful as ever, Lin Wan’er had even prepared snacks and dinner, inviting Charlie to sit by the fire and enjoy some tea. Charlie eagerly epted the invitation.


    As soon as the call connected, Steve hurriedly said, “Mr. Wade, my father just called and asked me to return home. It seems I won’t be able to stay and assist you any longer.”


    Charlie Wade smiled and replied, “I don’t have any problems for you to help me with. Since your father has requested your return, you should go back promptly.”


    Steve quickly asked, “Mr. Wade, could I treat you to a meal before I leave?”


    Charlie responded, “No need for a meal, just settle things in cash.”


    Steve was momentarily taken aback, then chuckled and said, “Mr. Wade, you really are a joker. I genuinely want to treat you to a meal, and I hope you’ll ept my invitation.”


    Charlie inquired, “When will you be heading back?”