Chapter 2018

Nathaniel listened in silence as Mildred scolded him. "The baby has been born for several days, and you haven't even named him yet. The birth certificate isn't processed, and Mae's funeral arrangements are still incomplete. If you truly feel guilty, you should be handling these matters, not hiding here and numbing yourself with alcohol. Do you understand?" As the alcohol wore off, Nathaniel's mind was clearer than it had been in days. Mildred's words struck home, leaving him no room for argument. "Yes, Grandma, you're right. I'm sorry." Mildred sighed, relieved he was acknowledging his faults. "Good. Now get up. You must handle everything I just mentioned personally. No help from bodyguards or assistants. Even for the baby's birth certificate, you need to handle it yourself. Consider it a lesson." "Yes," Nathaniel replied. His face was pale, and his sorrowful blue eyes revealed nothing of his inner thoughts. Nathaniel was also starting to eat, which was a relief for M