Chapter 73: Someone Was Here
The celebration of Lariette’s birthday ended around two in the morning. She didn’t let Declan and Rafael’s brief appearance, including her eldest brother’s cryptic note take her attention away from the celebration.
Lariette escorted the sleepy Chairman Delaney to his room while Ruediger and Madelyn packed the unfinished food and cleaned the necessary spots.
"Grandpa, Mr. Brian and your doctor will nag at you if they knew you stayed up so late."
Lariette said jokingly as she covered Chairman Delaney’s body with the blanket. Her teasing earned laughter from the elderly man.
"Don’t tattle on me. Shh!"
Chairman Delaney drew a smile on his lips as his blurred eyes looked at Lariette. Grabbing one of her hands, he gently squeezed it.
"My dear, happy birthday. I hope you enjoy this year’s surprise celebration. Please know that I’ll always be by your side. Don’t hesitate to come to me."
Lariette’s face softened hearing Chairman Delaney’s sincere wish for her. Nodding, she reassured the old man, "I do, Grandpa. It’s the best birthday party for me. I also know I can count on you."
Relief flooded Chairman Delaney’s heart, conflicting with the existing remorse. He blamed himself for not doing much to Lariette all these years.
Thankfully, it was not too late. At the very least, he was still breathing and healthy enough to be by his granddaughter’s side—defending her from her own parents.
"Good night, Grandpa. See you tomorrow."