Chapter 834 Visiting
“Of course,” Claudia readily agreed.
However, Zach couldn’t resist adding a sarcastic comment, “I’ve been suspecting that something unsavory has infiltrated the Olsen family recently. Summer is still unconscious, and it’s not wise to have such an ominous presence lingering in the Olsen Residence, is it?”
These words carried a disrespectful tone, and Josie’s calm facade cracked as she felt a surge of disgust. Before she could respond, Dexter fired back, “Are you suggesting, Mr. Zach, that despite Mrs. Olsen’s years of devout prayers and vegetarianism, she still can’t keep negative influences at bay?”
As he spoke, he absentmindedly played with his rosary beads. Zach, growing impatient with the conversation, turned his attention to his meal.
Claudia chose not to pursue the matter further and instead gave Josie a comforting look. On the other hand, Josie discreetly glanced at Arnold, who remained silent and wore an uneasy expression.
Claudia signaled the servant to pour wine for everyone. After the wine was served, she inquired, “Arnold, how is the investigation by the Securities Regulatory Commission progressing?”
Arnold slowly chewed a piece of bread before responding. “If someone is attempting to frame me but can’t produce any evidence, the Securities Regulatory Commission will likely clear my name. I’m already in the clear.”
Claudia nodded. “Summer is facing difficulties, and you mustn’t let your father-in-law worry any further.”,
“After dinner, I’ll go and accept the consequences.”
“Arnold, you appear quite worn out,” remarked Dexter, his gaze fixed on him. “The recent Securities Regulatory Commission investigation must have been exhausting. Managing everything during this time” must have taken a toll.”
Arnold’s emotions remained inscrutable as he replied. “In my position, who hasn’t faced scrutiny a few times? Dexter, if the day comes when the Russell Group faces a similar situation, feel free to seek my advice.”
Dexter continued to manipulate his prayer beads, his smile concealing a sharp edge. “We won’t.”
Josie sat at the dining table, observing the duel of words between the masters, unable to swallow her food.
After dinner, a housekeeper arrived with the news that Summer had awakened. Consequently, everyone went to visit her.
She was conscious, but her demeanor was somber as if she had lost half of her spirit. Her gaze was listless. and disinterested as she glanced at everyone, but it sharpened when it landed on Josie. She furrowed her brows and asked, “What are you doing here?”
Josie responded calmly, “I’ve come to see you. If we consider our ages, you’re a year younger than me, so I treat you like my younger sister. Am I not welcome to visit you?” She stated this with a warm smile, but she noticed that Summer’s expression grew increasingly panicked.
Summer clutched Arnold’s hand tightly, as if trying to suppress something, and said, “I’m not your sister”
“It seems I may have overstepped.” Josie flashed her a smile.
“Sum…” Mark was being assisted by someone as he entered the room, but his voice fell silent upon seeing. Josie.
She nodded respectfully to him, and as he passed by her gracefully, a gust of wind seemed to follow him. Josie maintained her composure.
Mark’s voice echoed, “Why are you acting so recklessly? How could you do this to your family, and more importantly, to yourself?”
Summer, shielded by her husband, refused to lift her head. “I didn’t want to live anymore.”
Mark raised his cane in anger but was restrained by Arnold. “Father, Summer just woke up. Don’t argue with her. The doctor mentioned she might have claustrophobia. Perhaps we shouldn’t have kept her confined in the family estate.”
Arnold patted Mark’s back affectionately as he spoke.
“Claustrophobia?” Mark initially didn’t comprehend. “Why didn’t she have this issue before?”
Summer briefly lifted her gaze, meeting a fiery stare that seemed to scorch her. She quickly averted her eyes. Dexter stood behind her, graceful in the bright light, and his gaze bore a silent warning.
“I’m sorry, Summer. You shouldn’t have been confined to the family estate.” Mark sighed.
