But finding such evidence would be diffieult given how well-prepared Jeremy had been With this realization, a chill ran through Brandons eyes, and his expression took on a malevolent cast.
Seeing that Brandon had remained silent for some time, Sean grew slightly flustered. He cautiously suggested, Mr. Larson,perhaps you should stay away from the spotlight for a while? Avoid returning home for the time being, or the domestic media will surely seize this sensational story if they hear that youre back. Once the police notice the news,even if theres no conclusive evidence,with that picture of you stabbing Jeremy, they could still initiate an investigation.
Even if Brandon hadnt killed anyone,he might be charged with intentional assault.
With a sigh, Sean acknowledged that the situation was very complex.After we delete all the news involving you, we will use some showbiz stories to distract attention. The focus of online users will shift, and without constant scrutiny and interest, things will naturally die down.
Hearing Seans words, Frank, who had been frowning,nodded in agreement.I think Sean is right. It would be prudent for us to seek a secluded location,away from the prying eyes of the media. By that time we resurface, the rumors will have likely lost their momentum, and things will be much easier to handle.
Brandons face was cold,and he sneered,Do you think we can resolve this by hiding? Do you believe its that simple?
Both Frank and Sean were taken aback.
Brandon explained,Since Jeremy managed to spread the news so quickly, he must have planned this well. He wont allow me to simply hide. If I choose to ignore the news and do nothing, he will exploit the situation, trying to prove that Ive killed him. And
Looking out the window, Brandons deep eyes narrowed as he spoke in a determined tone.The medical team I arranged for Natalie has arrived in Barnes. Additionally,all the essential equipment for her treatment is in your lab. If we want Natalie to receive the best care, we must stay in Barnes. I have no other choice.
Neither Frank nor Sean had anticipated that, at such a critical juncture, Brandon would insist on flying back to the precarious situation in Barnes for the sake of Natalie.
Frank, rubbing his forehead in frustration, proposed a compromise,Ill go back with Natalie for her treatment. She wont be in danger. You can find a secluded spot and let Sean handle this matter at the headquarters of the Larson Group on your behalf. You can return once youve cleared your name.
Brandon knew that Franks intentions were good and that his plan was the most logical, but he shook his head without hesitation, saying,No.
Franks anxiety grew. Why not? Why do you insist on returning?.
Brandons face remained cold, but his tone was resolute, driven by his concern for Natalie.It took me great effort to find Natalie. I dont want to be separated from her, even if its only for a. few days. Besides, you know how destructive public opinion can be. If people believe Im a murderer, what will happen to Natalie when she returns to Barnes alone as my wife? Im afraid that it will place additional psychological pressure on her, especially since shes already lost her memory.
Franks expression was torn,caught between admiration for Brandons deep affection and frustration at his perceived stubbornness.
After a moment of contemplation, Frank sighed.Okay, the decision is yours.
Hours later, their private plane touched down on the rooftop of Brandons mansion in Barnes. Through the window of the plane, Brandon could clearly see that many reporters were gathered outside the mansion. It seemed the media had already caught wind of his return home. They were all on the lookout, eager to gather firsthand information regarding the allegations that Brandon had killed someone. Brandon sneered coldly at the sight.
The area where he lived was among the wealthiest and most luxurious in Barnes, boasting extremely strict security measures. Even if a hundred more reporters were present, they would find it difficult to get close to him, let alone pry into his affairs.
At the same time,Natalie was just waking up. Wanting to shield her from the sight of the reporters with their cameras poised, Brandon deliberately turned to block her view and led her into the mansion.
Is this our bedroom? Natalie inquired, looking around the opulent and inviting room that spanned more than 100 square yards.
Brandon nodded and guided Natalie toward the bathroom,saying gentlyFreshen up first. Ill ask the servant to prepare some food for you. Natalie obeyed and stepped into the lavish yet unfamiliar bathroom.
The moment the bathroom door closed, Brandons face turned grim. He spun around and headed to the living room. Upon entering, he looked up and was met with the stern faces of Johanna and Beal, who were seated there. Beside them sat a woman he had never met before, her presence adding a new layer of tension to the already charged atmosphere.
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Brandon, already heavily burdened by the turmoil in public opinion,was further agitated by the sudden appearance of an unknown woman in his home. His face darkened, and he squinted at the butler, demanding, Whats going on here?
Observing Brandons displeasure,the butler explained hastily,This lady appeared at the gate of the mansion today, claiming to be your aunts daughter. She said she had something important to discuss with you.
Frowning, Brandon looked at the unfamiliar woman, his tone sharp and unwelcoming. You allowed her in just on her say-so? Do you think anyone can waltz into my mansion?
Brandons intimidating manner sent a chill through the room, and a bead of sweat rolled down the butlers forehead. He lowered his eyes, replying fearfully,I didnt believe her at first, sir, but she bears a resemblance to your mother. And with reporters outside, I feared they might exploit her appearance for their stories,creating further problems. So,I took the liberty of inviting her in.
The butlers explanation seemed reasonable, and Brandon chose not to pursue the matter further. His frown deepening, he asked,Did you notice anything unusual about her?
The butler considered the womans behavior since she had entered the mansion. Shaking his head, he said, Ive kept a close eye on her, sir. The lady has been well-behaved,not wandering about or prying into matters she shouldnt. Shes been quietly sitting on the sofa, behaving appropriately.
Brandon nodded but continued to frown His aunts daughter?
Why did he have no recollection of her?
As far as he could remember, his mother had few ties with her maternal relatives. He was unaware if his mother even had any siblings, let alone an aunt with a daughter. Even if the girl were indeed his cousin, she was a stranger to him.
Moreover, with his current trouble, he could ill afford to lower his guard. This girl might even be a spy sent to entrap him.
Once satisfied that neither he nor his family knew this person, Brandons expression grew colder. He fixed his eyes on the girl, who wore a white dress and bore a refined, elegant countenance. His gaze was filled with suspicion and impatience.
The young woman onthesofasensed Brandons scrutiny. She rose gracefullyher eyes calm. Far from appearing intimidated, she smiled warmly.Are you Cousin Brandon?
At her words, Brandons impatience intensified. He responded curtly,I dont recall having a cousin. Id advise you not to make such claims lightly.
The girls gentle and beautiful smile gave way to a look of hurt. Brandon, you havent even asked me who my parents are. How can you be so sure that Im not your cousin?
Her pretty face wore an expression of pitiful innocence that might have inspired a protective instinct in others.
But she was dealing with Brandon, a man known for his cold heart. No one could elicit warmth from him except for Natalie.
Without even looking at the girl, Brandons voice was icy as he ordered, Maam, if you have no further business here, please leave. Butler, see the guest out.
The girl had not anticipated such an indifferent dismissal.
As she saw herself about to be escorted out by the butler,panic replaced her earlier poise,and she cried out, I have evidence.
Evidence?Brandon stopped the butler with a Wave of his hand. His eyes glinted with a subtle menace. If youre attempting to deceive me youll find Barnes a difficult place to reside. The threat was unmistakable,causing the girl to flinch. She swallowed hard but nodded her head with determination.I truly have evidence. Brandon looked at her without expression, silently instructing her to reveal her proof.
I My name is Audrey Larson,she stammered,and my mothers name is Alina Larson. Shes your mothers sister.
As she spoke, Audrey extracted an old photograph, handling it with care as she presented it to Brandon.
Brandon took the photograph, his expression unchanging. But as he studied the image, a flicker of astonishment crossed his eyes.
It was an old black-and-white photograph. In it, two young girls smiled radiantly at the camera, and the girl on the left was unmistakably his mother.
Staring at the young image of his mother in the photo, Brandons deep-set eyesnarrowed thoughtfully.
After a moment, he raised his hand, his voice lighter than before.Butler,please escort Miss Larson to the guest room for some rest.
Audreys eyes brightened. Brandon, do you believe me now?