Alexander said calmly, "These are not my traps. The first one—I thought I did it flawlessly. I never thought that someone would recognize that the woman in the video call with me was fake. At that time, I admired your judgment. I really hoped that you would give in and not pursue this matter."
"I don’t believe it," Richard said excitedly. "If this wasn’t your trap, why didn’t you just let your sister appear on screen? Why did you use a fake one to deceive us?"
Alexander said calmly, "Of course, it’s because my sister can’t appear in front of others."
Richard’s eyes widened, and his pupils constricted. His face was filled with shock. "Do you mean Lucy was really... seriously ill and couldn’t show up?"
Alexander said calmly, "Yes. But I bet that she will wake up within a week. So I played along, stalled for time, and made a bet with you."
Richard looked straight at him and was speechless for a long time. A moment later, he revealed a sad and bitter smile. He kept shaking his head to express his disappointment. "So close," he thought. He had a chance to oust Alexander. However, because he was not decisive and efficient enough, Alexander turned the tables. Richard believed it was fate.
"Secondly," Alexander said calmly, "I didn’t anticipate anything, including the fact that you sent someone to kidnap the imposter and that the imposter would betray me. But I’ve never trusted human nature." He looked Richard straight in the eye. "And in any matter of importance, I prepare for the worst. The worst that can happen to me is that my sister doesn’t show up on time, or the imposter rats me out. So I secretly arranged for the imposter to come to Valemont City, just in case. After the imposter left, I immediately sent people to clean up the house and remove any traces of anyone living there."
Richard was silent for a while before saying, "What about passersby, neighbors, and surveillance cameras?"
Alexander said calmly, "In order to ensure that nothing goes wrong, I got someone to clear the surveillance cameras in advance. As for the passersby and neighbors... I have bought the entire town." He smiled coldly.
When Richard heard this, he was extremely shocked. "That’s insane."
Richard was 82, and Alexander was 22. He thought that he knew Alexander very well. But now, he realized he was wrong. Underestimating a powerful opponent ultimately gave him a fatal blow.
"Is it?" Alexander said calmly. "Compared to the mastermind from five years ago, it’s nothing."
He’d been investigating for five years, but the person behind the scenes was still not found.
"I guess I am old..." Richard revealed a bleak smile. His originally well-maintained face seemed to have returned to his true age in an instant. "There’s no place for me in this world anymore. I am out of the game."
After saying that, he put on a slightly crazy and sinister smile. "In the current Moran family, other than my brother, probably only the mastermind can compete with you. Between you and the mastermind, I’d rather support you. I’d be happy if you could win."
Alexander was unmoved. "I’ve said what you wanted to know. Now can I have what I want?"
Richard took out a USB flash drive from his pocket and threw it to Alexander. "Five years ago, someone sent me a video. You don’t have to waste your time checking out the sender. I’ve checked and nothing was found. I’ve tried my best to find clues from the video, but still, nothing. The rest is on you."
He propped himself up with his crutches and stood up awkwardly. He turned around and left with a slight bow, as heavy as a mountain. After taking a few steps, he suddenly stopped and turned around. "I have been so straightforward. Can I ask you for mercy? Don’t hurt my children, especially... forgive James."
Alexander said calmly, "Okay. But he must leave the headquarters."
Richard nodded. "Thank you."
Then he retracted his gaze and walked towards the door. After walking for a distance, he suddenly staggered and almost fell. His subordinates, who were waiting nearby, quickly rushed over and supported him. Then, with the help of his subordinates, he left shakily.
Alexander stood on the spot and watched Richard disappear before turning around and walking in the opposite direction. Richard could be removed from his blacklist. However, the blacklist was still overcrowded.
After walking for a while, he came to the small building where Lucy was temporarily staying. There were two bodyguards guarding the entrance of the building, who greeted Alexander respectfully upon seeing him.
Alexander said, "How’s my sister?"
The bodyguard said, "Ms. Moran is asleep. Louis, the doctors, and nurses are guarding her."
Alexander nodded slightly and did not go upstairs. Instead, he stopped in front of a cluster of roses not far away and made a call.
The call was picked up immediately. Avery’s gentle and pure voice flowed into Alexander’s heart like a stream.
"Mr. Moran, are you alright?"
Alexander closed his eyes slightly and said in a low voice, "Miss Carter, I miss you a little. I wonder if you’ve missed me."
Avery’s face instantly burned. Her heart raced. She covered her burning face and thought seriously for a bit before saying, "I only returned home in the evening. You don’t know, but my mother’s cooking is delicious. I had a good meal.
"Also, I watched your family’s press conference just now. You’re too conspicuous, so I don’t miss you." Then, she thought for a moment and added, "I may only miss you tomorrow."
Alexander chuckled softly, "Thanks. When I’m done here, I’ll treat you. Hopefully, you’ll agree."
Avery replied, "Alright."
Speaking of which, Alexander had already said he would treat her to several meals. Avery wondered how long it would take to finish them. Then, she thought of something. "Is your sister alright?"
Alexander replied, "Lucy is asleep. There shouldn’t be any major problems for now."
Avery asked, "Will you let her stay in Valemont City?"