Chapter 484
Gracie’s brow remained deeply furrowed, her suspicious stare fixed on his retreating figure.
The accompanying guards scoured the vicinity and located only an abandoned physician’s coat. “It seems the doctor has already departed.”
“Pull up all the hospital’s security footage immediately. We have to identify and track down this individual,” Gracie commanded icily.
The sudden disappearance of Kevin from his secured room, Erik’s convenient absence from the expert consultation citing illness, and his timely presence in the garden—all of it stirred a profound unease within her. She was determined to uncover the truth.
Back in the ward, Gracie observed Kevin contentedly savoring a lollipop that Neal had provided.
She gently inquired, “Kevin, what exactly did Erik discuss with you outside?”
Kevin cocked his head to the side, his thoughts simplified like those of a young child. “He promised to get me sweets if I was good, and he mentioned…”
Gracie leaned in closer, her pulse quickening in anticipation of a vital clue.
But Kevin abruptly shook his head. “I can’t recall the rest—just something about candy. He tricked me! He didn’t bring any at all!”
He bowed his head again, fully absorbed in his treat.
Rising to her feet, Gracie regarded Neal with stern gravity. “Going forward, send the security team for any errands. Ensure Kevin remains under constant watch—no exceptions.”
“I’m sorry; it’s my fault this time,” Neal murmured, bowing his head in shame.
Gracie’s expression hardened. “Regrets don’t undo risks. This must never happen again.”
A series of knocks sounded at the door, and a guard stepped in. “The so-called doctor was a fake. Camera footage captured him leaving the facility. Our investigators are on it and should apprehend him shortly.”
“Expedite the process,” Gracie directed firmly. “Maintain tight security here—I’m returning to the conference area.”
By the time Gracie re-entered the auditorium, the session had concluded. The distinguished panel of Alzheimer’s authorities, both local and international, clad in their lab coats, streamed out one by one.
She lingered by the doorway until Brayden finally appeared. “It’s over already? That wrapped up quicker than expected,” Gracie noted, her brow creasing.
Brayden’s demeanor was grave. “These consultants only flew in today and have merely examined Grandpa’s charts so far. Additional diagnostics are required before they can approve any advanced therapies.”
He hesitated briefly before asking, “What did you find out?”
Gracie cast a pointed glance toward Erik, who was exiting just then. “When I arrived, Erik was alone with Kevin, conversing privately. The details escape me.”
Advancing purposefully, she confronted him directly. “The individual who removed Kevin from his ward was a fraud. Erik, care to offer any clarification?”
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