Chapter 561 Father and Son Talk

"Andy, Nate, Mommy will miss you so much. Let me give you a hug," Ashley said, embracing her children with obvious reluctance to let them go.

The children hugged her back just as tightly. Despite their excitement about going with their uncles to Aivalia with its attractions and delicious food, they understood their father needed their mother's undivided attention now.

"Mommy, we can video chat every day," Andy reassured her. "Besides, you'll be coming to Aivalia in six months, right? That time will fly by!"

"That's right, Mommy," Nate added. "With video calls, it'll be like seeing each other every day!"

Ashley still couldn't bear the separation and planted a kiss on each of their cheeks.

Ethan motioned from his wheelchair. "Andy, Nate, come here."

The children walked over to him, carefully adjusting the blanket over his legs.

"Daddy, after we leave, remember to take your medication on schedule and change your bandages regularly. Don't forget the doctor's instructions, and please don't get too emotional."

"I will, I promise," Ethan replied, looking at them adoringly before kissing each child on the cheek.

"The helicopter's here. Be good for your uncles in Aivalia."

"We will, Daddy."

"We should get going now," Landon said. "The helicopter's creating quite a wind—Ashley, take him inside before he catches a chill."

The wind from the rotors whipped around them as Ashley secured Ethan's blanket.

"Bye, Mommy! Bye, Daddy!" the children called out.

"Goodbye, darlings!"

Ashley and Ethan watched until the helicopter disappeared into the distance, their eyes filled with longing.

"Pearl, let's head back," Ethan finally said.

"Yes." Ashley's face was troubled. "Ethan, do you think the kids will adjust to life in Aivalia? They've never been away from me before. I'm so worried!"

"Sometimes it's not the children who can't let go, but the parents," Ethan said gently. "Consider this separation an opportunity for their growth. Don't worry too much—your brothers will take excellent care of them."

"You're right. If I can't trust my own brothers, who can I trust?"

"Try not to worry."

"Okay." Ashley asked, "Ethan, it's getting dark and windy. Are you cold?"

Ethan chuckled. "I'm not cold. My body may be fragile right now, but I'm not that delicate."

"I just want to be careful. The doctor said you absolutely cannot get sick right now."

"I understand."

Ashley pushed Ethan's wheelchair as they chatted comfortably. Just as they reached the hospital entrance, a luxury car pulled up nearby. Ian stood waiting, apparently for some time.

"Your Highness, there you are. His Majesty has been looking for you," Ian said as he approached them.

"My father's looking for me? Where is he?"

Ian glanced toward the luxury vehicle—a black car with tinted windows that concealed its interior.

"Pearl, go on ahead. I need to speak with my father."

"How will you get back?" she asked.

"Ms. White, don't worry. I'll ensure His Highness returns safely," Ian assured her.

"Alright then. I'll wait for you in your room," Ashley turned to Ethan.

"Okay," Ethan replied.

Ethan watched Ashley leave before allowing Ian to help him into the car.

Inside the luxury vehicle, Garrett was reviewing stacks of documents. He set them aside when Ethan entered.

"Ethan, how's your recovery progressing?"

"Father, I'm doing well. But why did you deliberately arrange to speak without Pearl present? Is something confidential going on?"

Ethan knew Garrett had intentionally separated them—otherwise, why go through the trouble of meeting in a car?

"There are certain matters not suitable to discuss in her presence," Garrett replied. "First, regarding the new product naming—I find it too hasty and have overruled it. I also hear you plan to manage the new company in Aivalia jointly with Ashley?"

"Father, I believe 'Mother's Love' is an excellent name, not hasty at all. As for the Aivalia venture, having both of us manage it will only increase performance. I trust her capabilities completely. You know me better than anyone—I would never gamble with our business!"

Garrett sighed heavily. "You're completely besotted with her. Whatever she says, you think is brilliant. If you become king someday, it would be one thing if she encouraged your better qualities, but what if she manipulates you? The entire nation could suffer!"

Garrett's tone had become unusually severe and cutting.
The Thousand and First Fall into Love
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