Chapter 262

The physician placed a comforting hand on Richard's shoulder. "Your mother's condition is temporarily stable, but her prognosis remains uncertain. If there are any final words you wish to share, this would be the appropriate time. The vehicular collision caused catastrophic injuries, and she could expire at any moment."

Before the doctor finished speaking, a woman's choked sob pierced the tense silence.

Catherine Winslow stood weeping uncontrollably, her shoulders shaking with each ragged breath.

Richard's face mirrored his wife's apparent grief, every muscle taut with visible distress.

The weight of impending loss hung heavy in the sterile hospital corridor - except for one person.

Noticing the disapproving glances directed at Liam, Sebastian leaned closer and murmured, "Sir, perhaps some visible concern would be prudent?"

Liam's lips twisted into a sardonic smile as he whispered back, "Why perform grief when we all know the truth? They've scheduled Mother's demise for today regardless of her actual condition. Surely you don't doubt this?"

Sebastian bowed his head in silent acknowledgment.

Liam's icy gaze swept across the assembled relatives before issuing quiet orders. "Execute the contingency. Clean and thorough."

"Understood." Sebastian melted into the background as the family continued their theatrical mourning.

Richard wiped his eyes dramatically. "I'll handle this. As firstborn, any final wishes belong to me alone."

Liam intercepted his brother's movement toward Margaret's private room. "Don't be absurd, Richard. We share the same blood. Mother would want us both present."

Richard's jaw clenched. "You've barely visited during her entire hospitalization! Now at this critical hour, you suddenly appear? What's your true agenda?"

Liam countered smoothly, "My absence maintained Blackwood Enterprises. Shall we trade places? You manage the corporation while I play devoted son?"

Richard's expression brightened momentarily at the suggestion.

Before he could respond, an elderly Winslow cousin interjected, "Richard, you should enter together."

Richard's smile froze. Rage flickered behind his eyes, but he restrained himself - this distant relative still commanded respect.

His carefully orchestrated audience of relatives now worked against him. Though they disapproved of Liam's apparent indifference, none wished to see the incompetent Richard helm the family empire.

Standing apart, Victor Blackwood observed this dynamic with new understanding. He stroked his chin, reassessing his strategy.

After prolonged stalemate, Liam took decisive action. With one final dismissive glance at Richard, he strode into Margaret's room.

Richard moved to follow but found his path blocked by security. "What is the meaning of this?" he demanded.

The lead guard offered a polite but firm smile. "Mr. Blackwood requests privacy with his mother. Please wait your turn."

Richard's face darkened with fury. "What secrets is my brother hiding now?"