Chapter 337
It wasn't long before the news about Liam topped the trending searches.
The internet was abuzz, with media outlets driving the conversation.
#LiamMissing ["Heard Liam was pushed to go to country F by his brother. With the frequent wars there, you can only imagine his fate now."]
#LiamMissing ["The conflict in country F this morning involved bombs and smoke grenades. There were many casualties. Liam's chances don't look good."]
#LiamMissing ["Joseph is too ruthless. Now that he practically owns Hernandez Corp., he doesn't even spare his brother."]
"Liam is such a good guy, always helping the struggling families in impoverished areas and funding school construction. Joseph is despicable."
"The guy above is bold, openly criticizing Joseph. Aren't you afraid of trouble?"
"Lol, Madison isn't controlled by Joseph. But it won’t be a surprise if we get silenced or something happens. After all, Joseph's reach is vast."
The topic and trending searches had exploded beyond three billion views in no time.
Cassie's face grew paler as she read the news.
Was Liam in trouble?
If it weren't for helping her, Joseph wouldn't have sent Liam to such a place. She felt it was her fault.
---
As Joseph stepped onto the top floor, Mabel confronted him with a slap across the face.
He lifted his hand and caught hers. Mabel's hair was disheveled, her eyes red and burning with anger. "Joseph, if anything happens to Liam, I swear you'll pay with your life."
Her hand was trembling slightly under his sleeve.
Marcus quickly wrapped his arms around Mabel's shoulders. "Mabel, calm down. Our priority is to find Liam. I've had my secretary book the flights already. We'll be heading there soon."
"You?" Mabel's face was etched with worry. "But it's chaotic over there right now; they might go to war. If something happens to you too..."
"Even if Liam is dead, I'll find his body and bring him home," Marcus said, his eyes carrying a touch of deep sorrow.
"No need. I'll go," Joseph said flatly, turning to leave.
"Stop. How do I know you won't harm Liam yourself? You're going with Marcus," Mabel commanded. "You must bring both father and son back safe and sound."
Joseph's mouth curved into a cold smirk as he walked away.
Walter, overhearing, was furious. "Madam, it is too much. No matter what, you came from her womb, Joseph. Just don't go. Let them sort it out themselves."
"Did you see how I've been vilified online? My reputation has taken a nosedive. This trip is to salvage my public image and... I don't believe Liam's dead. The internet frenzy blew up too fast. I don't buy it without someone fanning the flames."
Joseph's face showed a mockingly sarcastic grin.
Before boarding the plane, he called Cassie. "Sweetheart, I'll be on a business trip for a few days. You take care, and make sure to eat well and take your medicine."
A brief silence was on the line before Cassie said softly, "Could you... spare Liam's life?"
It felt as if something inside him was splintering. Everyone he held dear, including her, didn't trust him. Everyone warned him of the dangers in Country F, yet not one showed concern for his wellbeing.
"...Alright."
He forced a smile, no longer interested in explanations. It didn't matter anymore.
After hanging up, he turned to Walter. "Did you remember to bring the medication I took before?"
Walter was caught off guard, recalling Lucas's warning about a possible relapse, but still handed over the medication.