Chapter 458

Edward’s Cough

Before entering the finance world, he might not have known–but once he stepped into it, who hadn’t heard of Marla? Arabella offered an awkward smile. “Right, she’s… a friend of mine.”

“She’s traveling overseas at the moment. I’ll introduce you when she’s back,” she added, improvising an excuse.

“Sure, anytime. I’ll wait as long as it takes.” What he really wanted to say was thank you.

Arabella’s lips twitched. Did he have to be so… persistent?

“Cough, cough-” Edward cleared his throat several times.

Arabella glanced over, concerned. “Everything alright?”

“It’s nothing. Just a slight cold. Been coughing on and off these past few days,” he explained.

“Did you take anything for it?”

Edward shook his head. “It’s fine. Should clear up in a day or two.”

“That’s not ‘fine‘. Even though you’re healthier now, you shouldn’t ignore it.” Arabella paused, thinking. “Take some medicine tonight when you get home. I’ll prepare a herbal remedy for cough and cold symptoms and bring it over tomorrow morning.”

“You really don’t have to go through the trouble. I’ll take over–the–counter meds,” Edward replied, not wanting to inconvenience

her.

“My remedy works faster,” she insisted.

Edward finally gave in. “Alright then. Sorry for the trouble.”

“And make sure you take cough syrup tonight–don’t brush it off,” Arabella reminded him.

“I will.” Even if only to keep her from worrying, he’d take the medicine properly and recover soon.

Satisfied, Arabella urged Edward to finish his meal.

After dinner, the two walked out of the restaurant.

“Will you be okay getting back alone?” Edward asked, still somewhat worried.

“I’ll be fine. You go home and rest,” Arabella assured him.

He watched as she got into her car and drove off, his gaze lingering long after her taillights disappeared down the street,

Only once she was completely out of sight did Edward finally get into his own vehicle.

Arabella drove back to Cloudrise Manor,

As soon as she entered the living room, she found Florence waiting up for her–just as she’d expected.

“Mom.” Arabella walked over to the sofa.

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Chapter 458 Edward’s Cough

Florence smiled warmly. “You’re back, sweetheart.”

“Where are Dad and Ethan? Already turned in for the night?” Arabella asked casually.

“Your father’s in the study. Ethan said he had plans and isn’t home yet,” Florence explained.

“Oh.” Arabella settled beside her mother, leaning her head gently on Florence’s shoulder.

Florence reached up and stroked Arabella’s hair. “What’s wrong, honey? Long day at work?”

“Not really. I just felt like leaning on you like this for a moment.” Arabella’s voice softened, almost whimsical.

“Well then, lean as long as you like.” Florence’s eyes filled with tenderness.

Holding her mother’s arm, Arabella felt deeply content, wrapped in a quiet sense of happiness.

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It was a comforting feeling–knowing that no matter what, someone was there waiting, leaving a warm light on just for you.

Over at Stewart Manor, Matthew was in his study reviewing documents when his phone rang.

He glanced at the screen and answered. “Go ahead.”

“Mr. Stewart, no new leads on Marla. Same results as the previous investigation.” Andy’s voice came through.

After searching for so long without turning up anything fresh, he was starting to doubt there was more to find.

“Any trace of her current whereabouts?” Matthew pressed.

“No one seems to know where she is–she hasn’t surfaced anywhere. If it weren’t for her investment in Edward’s company, we wouldn’t have caught wind of her at all,” Andy replied.

Matthew fell silent for a moment. “Go to Macdonald Capital tomorrow.”

“Understood. I’ll check it out first thing,” Andy confirmed.

“Pick me up on the way,” Matthew said, his tone low.

“You’re going yourself, sir?” Andy couldn’t hide his surprise.

“I’ll take a look,” Matthew stated calmly.

Andy collected himself. “Yes, sir.”

“Good.” Matthew ended the call, his eyes deep and unreadable.

No one knew anything about Marla, yet Edward had managed to secure an investment from her. Something didn’t add up. Did Edward have some kind of connection to her?

But if he did, how had the Macdonald family ended up in such rough shape before?

“Either way, maybe tomorrow will bring some answers,” Matthew murmured to himself.

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Chapter 458 Edward’s Cough

His attention returned to the documents, and he continued working into the night.

The next morning dawned bright and clear.

Matthew arrived at Macdonald Capital early.

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When Edward saw him, his expression shifted to one of complete surprise. “Mr. Stewart–this is an honor. What can I do for you?”

He never imagined Matthew would personally visit his modest offices.

I need a favor,” Matthew said plainly.

Edward felt both flattered and nervous. “Please, just name it.”

Do you know Marla?” Matthew got straight to the point.

‘No, I don’t,” Edward answered, shaking his head.

Matthew’s brow furrowed. “She invested in your company, and you’ve never met her?”

‘Oh, that.” Edward smiled slightly. “She’s a friend of Arabella’s. I only benefited because of Arabella’s connection. Why else would someone like her take an interest in a firm like mine?”

‘Arabella Hamilton…” Matthew’s eyes

darkened.

‘Arabella’s last name is Hamilton now, isn’t it?” Edward thought aloud. “Arabella Hamilton… it’s a lovely name.”

Matthew studied him closely, his gaze sharpening. “You don’t know much about your own sister, it seems.”

‘True enough. But if Arabella hasn’t shared something with me, I don’t feel the need to pry,” Edward replied, unbothered.