Chapter 217
Chapter 217 The Plot Thickens
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“Robert, when I arrived today, there were some people who looked like security guards at the gate. They wouldn’t let me in at first. I only got through after calling the butler and having him escort me. Who are those men at the entrance?” Naomi asked, feigning confusion.
Hearing this, Robert immediately frowned and turned to the butler beside him. “What is Naomi–referring to? Were they arranged by you?”
The butler glanced at Naomi before addressing Robert. “They were arranged by Mr. Stewart. He was concerned for your well–being and specifically posted security at the perimeter as a precaution.”
After listening to the butler’s explanation, Robert nodded, a look of satisfaction crossing his face. “That boy still knows how to look out for me. But what has kept him so busy these past few days? Why haven’t I seen him visit?”
“He has been occupied with corporate matters. Otherwise, Mr. Stewart would certainly have been here sooner,” the butler offered in Matthew’s defense.
Robert then looked back at Naomi. “Have you been seeing Matthew lately? Do you know what he’s been so preoccupied with?”
“I haven’t seen Matthew in quite a while either. I’ve heard he’s been very busy. I thought I might stop by his office later to check on him,” Naomi said with a practiced smile.
“Don’t put it off. Go see him in a little while,” Robert suggested.
“Alright, I’ll sit with you a bit longer and then head over,” Naomi replied, feeling her frequent visits these past few days were paying off. Robert seemed to be growing even fonder of her.
“Naomi, I heard your family recently located a long–lost younger sister. What is the story there?” Robert shifted the topic, inquiring about Arabella.
Hearing Robert suddenly bring up Arabella, a flicker of surprise passed through Naomi’s eyes.
Ruby also looked at Naomi, startled. How did Robert know the Hamiltons had found a missing child? The family hadn’t made any public announcement…
Could it be that Robert knew the physician treating him was Arabella?!
“Robert, I’m not entirely clear on the details myself, and it’s a bit… complicated to explain,” Naomi said, pretending to be in a difficult position.
Seeing her troubled expression, Robert smiled gently. “That’s quite alright. It’s understandable if you’re not familiar with it.”
“Well, does this sister of yours resemble you?” Robert asked, moving to something she might know.
“Not particularly,” Naomi replied.
“I see. And what is her temperament like?” Robert continued his gentle probing.
“Her temperament… I’m not very familiar with her either, as she’s only recently returned. She comes across as rather… free- spirited. Her manner of speaking and acting can seem a bit unrefined.
“But I suppose that’s to be expected. She was raised in a much simpler environment, so her upbringing and education are naturally
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Chapter 217 The Plot Thickens
different from my own.” Naomi’s words carried a subtle but distinct note of superiority.
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“Of course, Mom, Dad, my brothers, and I are all very welcoming to our returned sister. Having an additional member in the family has brought everyone a great deal of joy,” Naomi added, a smile in her eyes that didn’t quite match the coolness in her tone.
Robert listened, his eyes narrowing slightly as a gentle, unreadable smile played on his lips.
“Robert, what made you think of my newly returned sister?” Naomi ventured, trying to gauge his interest.
“Oh, I simply heard a mention of it recently. Since you were visiting, I thought I’d ask. Your household must be even livelier now,” Robert said, his smile still gentle.
“Mhmm,” Naomi responded.
“And what has your grandfather been occupying himself with lately?” Robert smoothly changed the subject.
“I believe he’s preparing for the spring planting season on the estate,” Naomi said.
“Spring planting? Is that old fool still insisting on working the land himself?” Robert asked, genuine surprise in his eyes.
“Grandpa has always been dedicated to managing the estate grounds. Robert, it’s been so long since you’ve visited. You have no idea–the estate is completely self–sufficient now. It’s really quite remarkable,” Naomi said with a fond smile.
“Is that so? That old coot certainly knows how to keep himself occupied. I really must make a trip out to see his setup one of these days,” Robert said with a chuckle.
“Alright now, you’ve humored an old man long enough. I can’t have you spending your whole day here. You should go find Matthew,” Robert said, shooing them playfully.
Hearing this, a bright smile immediately appeared on Naomi’s face. “Of course. You must be tired from all our chatting. We won’t disturb your rest any longer.”
With that, Naomi and Ruby said their goodbyes, left Stewart Manor, and drove toward Matthew’s corporate office.
Unbeknownst to them, Matthew had been notified the moment Naomi and Ruby entered the manor grounds.
“I instructed you to have her stopped. How did she still get in?” Matthew’s tone was disapproving and icy.
Andy felt a cold sweat break out. “We did intercept them initially. However, Naomi contacted the butler, who personally came out to escort them inside. Our personnel couldn’t intervene at that point.”
“Naomi certainly is resourceful,” Matthew said, his voice a blend of frustration and cold resignation.
“Now that your grandpa is aware of the security presence, should we recall the team?” Andy asked cautiously.
“Recall them. There’s no point in them remaining now,” Matthew ordered, his tone decisive and cool.
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