Sophie and Bill returned to the manor.
Max greeted Sophie in person, speaking respectfully, "Dr. Sterling, are you here to see Mr. Hawke?"
Sophie nodded and asked, "Where is Mr. Hawke now?"
Max fell silent for a moment before sighing. "Mr. Hawke doesn't wish to be disturbed right now, Dr. Sterling. It would be best if you came back another day."
Noticing the sadness in Max's eyes, Sophie felt a surge of unease. With a tense tone, she pressed, "What happened? Julian's condition couldn't have worsened, could it? That's impossible—he was clearly improving when I left yesterday."
Max pressed his lips together briefly before finally responding, "We just received word that Mr. Hawke's father has passed away. We were unable to rescue him in time, and Mr. Hawke is deeply grieved."
Sophie's p
