Three days afterward.

The hospital’s largest auditorium had been reserved for an assembly of leading Alzheimer’s specialists from across the country and abroad.

Seated in the rows behind them were the Stanley family members who had orchestrated the gathering.

“Brayden, Gracie, we’ve assembled these top professionals exactly as you suggested. As soon as a consensus emerges on the course of treatment, we can proceed without delay,” Theo remarked smoothly.

Aiden affirmed with a nod. “Indeed, we’re ready to begin whenever you are.”

Yet Brayden cast a quick glance toward the entrance. “Where’s Dad? Why hasn’t he shown up today?”

“He has been overwhelmed with anxiety lately and is actually undergoing care here in the hospital himself,” Aiden explained with a heavy sigh. “Ever since Grandpa’s condition worsened, Dad hasn’t managed a proper night’s rest. It finally took a toll on his well-being.”

Brayden narrowed his gaze slightly and shared a subtle, knowing exchange with Gracie, who was seated right next to him.

Gracie discreetly pulled out her phone and fired off a text to Phoebe. Moments later, the sudden chime of an incoming call pierced the hushed atmosphere of the room.

“Apologies, it’s an urgent matter from work,” Gracie announced politely, excusing herself as she rose and stepped outside.

Theo spared her a fleeting look before redirecting his attention elsewhere.

Once out in the hallway, Gracie made a beeline for the elevator and headed up to Kevin’s ward on a higher floor.

To her alarm, the space was completely vacant.

She swiftly collared Neal, the longtime family butler lingering nearby. “Where has Kevin gone? Why is his bed empty?”

Neal appeared genuinely baffled. “He was throwing a bit of a tantrum, insisting on some sweets, so I dashed down to a convenience store. By the time I returned, he had vanished.”

Gracie summoned one of the security personnel stationed at the door. “Where was Kevin taken?”

“A doctor stopped by a little while ago. He mentioned that Mr. Stanley had been cooped up indoors far too long and was looking quite weak, so he wheeled him down to the outdoor garden for some fresh air,” the guard reported.

Gracie’s face darkened instantly, and she bolted toward the elevators. “Everyone, follow me right now. We’re heading to the garden to locate him immediately.”

The entourage rushed through the bustling hospital passageways, drawing curious stares from passersby.

At that very moment, in the tranquil hospital courtyard, Kevin sat in a wheelchair with a warm blanket draped across his lap, gazing vacantly into the distance.

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