Chapter 977 At Death’s Door
In less than half a day, news that Branden collapsed at a press conference and was fighting for his life had spread like wildfire, causing the company’s stock to plummet and sending waves of panic throughout the organization.
At this moment, the VIP treatment area at Casier Hospital was crowded with high-profile figures, rendering it nearly inaccessible.
Upon seeing Will Brown, the hospital director, emerge from the consultation room, Karl immediately asked, “How’s the situation?”
Will, usually assertive, became cautious under Karl’s imposing inquiry. He carefully replied, “Mr. Duncan, the situation is dire. We still can’t pinpoint the cause of Branden’s coma, and we’re only able to slow the decline of his bodily functions with machines. As for Miss Swann…”
Seeing Will hesitate, Karl impatiently snapped, “Spit it out! You’re not holding up the sky. What’s there to be afraid of?”
Will, who had once treated a younger Karl and held a deep respect for him, replied, “Mr. Duncan, Miss Swann isn’t in life-threatening danger. However, the amount of toxic gas she inhaled, combined with the physical struggle, means we’re likely unable to save the baby.”
Karl had anticipated this. In light of the events, it seemed nearly impossible to save the unborn child. He thought the blame lay with Branden for not informing him earlier and lamented the absence of protection from God.
“Ensure Catherine’s well-being above all.” Karl Duncan sighed. “If the child can’t be saved, so be it. Her health is what matters.”
Will was somewhat shocked by Karl’s emphasis on Catherine’s health over lineage, a rarity among elite families that often viewed women merely as bearers of heirs.
Will assured, “Rest assured, Mr. Duncan. We’ll do everything we can. As for Branden…”
Before Will could discuss Branden’s condition further, a weak yet determined voice intervened. “Just make sure Cassie is taken care of. Leave the Duncan boy to me.”
Turning around, Will looked at the newcomer with awe. It was Thomas, the renowned miracle doctor who had once mentored him.
Aware of Thomas’s poor health, Will expressed concern. “Mr. Theo, you’re not in good shape. Maybe you should rest.”
Thomas glanced at Will and gently dismissed his concerns, “I’m aware of my limits. Today, I’m willing to risk it all, even if it means fighting the Grim Reaper for him.”
The hospital was in an uproar, and Zobber was far from safe herself.
After being relentlessly pursued and enduring countless hardships, she finally arrived at the address Black Robe had given her, battered and bruised.
Despite her efforts to disguise herself, Zobber’s entrance caught the immediate attention of the casino’s enforcers.
A few of them approached her quietly. Realizing they were onto her, Zobber didn’t try to hide. She was too tired and ready to face whatever came next.
Seeing her not making a move to escape, one of the enforcers coldly said, “This isn’t a place for ladies. Better leave before things get ugly, and don’t expect us to clean up the mess.”
Zobber looked up, thinking to herself, ‘ This roach dares to talk to me?’
Her piercing gaze made the guy pause.
Seizing the moment, Zobber demanded, “Bring me your boss.”
Her commanding presence left no room for objection, and the guy nodded almost reflexively. He only realized later that he’d been played by her.
Soon after, the person in charge appeared. Sensing something extraordinary about Zobber, he invited her upstairs.
Once in the office on the second floor, Zobber revealed her identity with arrogance. “I’m Zobber. Look it up if you don’t know.”
The head, already knowing who she was, smiled faintly and said, “The boss has instructed us to take good care of you. Please, follow me.”
Zobber was then escorted to a secluded villa on the outskirts, an ideal hideout easily defended against any intrusion.
Deciding it was the perfect spot to lay low, she settled in. The person who brought her also arranged for an underground doctor to treat her wounds.
Once everything was in place, Zobber prepared to sleep, seemingly without any concern for her safety.
Finn reported the situation to Black Robe. “Sir, it seems Zobber has truly sided with us.”
Black Robe responded indifferently, She has got nowhere else to turn. With Branden’s fate uncertain, who else could she rely on?”
The fact was such. Zobber’s allegiance
was not by choice. She was left with no
alternative. That’s why Black Robe
wanted her to take action herself.
Black Robe then inquired, “How are things at the hospital?”
Thinking he was asking about Branden, Finn quickly briefed him on Duncan’s condition.
But Black Robe was more interested in Catherine. “And Catherine?”
Without delay, Finn relayed the news. ” Word is, Catherine’s life isn’t in danger, but the baby… the baby is at death’s door.”
Black Robe’s demeanor chilled. “That’s for the best. And keep an eye on Selene too. Find someone to take her out.”
Black Robe hadn’t expected Selene to be bold enough to make a move on her own. With so many losses this time, the higher-ups wouldn’t protect her any longer.
‘Since she is so determined to find trouble, I’ll personally see to her end,’ Black Robe thought darkly.
