Charlie Wade, along with his threepanions, opted for a disguise as technicians, which meant they couldn’t apany Helena directly. With no other ns for the evening, they decided to stay put and observe the unfolding situation.


    Upon his return to the hotel, Howard made a beeline for the room where his son, Steve, was located.


    At that moment, Steve was lounging in the spacious room, puffing on a cigar. He had juste back to the United States two days prior and was promptly whisked away to Northern Europe by his grandfather.


    The most frustrating part was that his grandfather had brought him here only to leave him idle in the hotel, never taking him along for any business outings.


    This situation left Steve feeling quite downcast. He began to understand his father’s intentions for bringing him to Northern Europe; it wasn’t for the sake ofpanionship or assistance, but rather to prevent him from being alone back in the United States.<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    With this realization, Steve understood that his stay in the United States would be limited, as he had be a source of concern for his father. The most prudent course of action was to spend as much time abroad as possible, ensuring that at least half of each year was away from the U.S., thereby easing his father’s worries.


    Steve also recognized an important fact: being the “crown prince” meant that usurping the throne was out of the question. His best strategy was to align with his father’s wishes and even proactively undertake tasks that his father might hesitate to request. By doing this, he could lower his father’s defenses and avoid any feelings of resentment.


    If he could maintain this approach over time, his position as the heir would remain secure. Eventually, his father would have to pass the mantle, and as long as Steve continued to meet his father’s expectations, he would smoothly step into that role when the time came.


    Once he hade to this conclusion, Steve felt a wave of sadness wash over him. However, he soon thought of a n: he could tell his father about his desire to travel and gain experience. This would reassure Howard while also providing an opportunity for Steve to travel to China and connect with Charlie Wade.


    The next step hinged on whether his father would agree to allow him to go to China under the pretext of gaining experience.


    Just then, the doorbell rang. In his bathrobe, Steve approached the door and checked the indoor monitor, discovering that it was his father standing outside. He quickly opened the door, greeting him respectfully, “Dad, when did you get back?”


    Howard replied, “I came to see you right after I returned.”


    He scanned Steve from head to toe and instructed, “Steve, hurry up and take a shower, change into formal attire, and join me for a banquet with the Nordic royal family tonight. The Nordic Queen is hosting us.”


    Steve wasn’t surprised to hear about the queen’s invitation. He understood that the Nordic Queen was closely associated with Charlie Wade, and it was likely his idea to have them over for dinner.


    Feigning curiosity, he asked, “Father, is your visit to Northern Europe aimed at deepening cooperation with the Nordic royal family?”


    “I suppose so,” Howard nodded casually. “The Nordic region has significant development potential. Plus, I hope to strengthen ties with the royal family. Who knows, there may be a chance for a marriage alliance in the future.”


    Steve thought to himself, “Marriage? Surely, you can’t be serious.”<fnc7e6> The rightful source is find·novel</fnc7e6>


    Nevertheless, he kept his thoughts to himself. After a brief nod, he turned to Howard and said, “Father, I have an idea that I hope you can support.”


    Howard, intrigued, replied, “What’s on your mind? Just share it with me.”


    Steve spoke earnestly, “Father, I haven’t traveled much outside the United States in recent years, and I feel Ick a broader understanding of global affairs. I’d like to spend at least half of my time abroad in the future to gain more experience. However, this means I might not be able to manage American matters, so I’d need you and the family to oversee that. Would you agree?”