TOO CUNNING AND DETESTABLE

As Haitao and Kendrick stood outside the imposing glass doors of the VIP ward, Haitao adjusted his tie lazily, the stark fluorescent lights flickering overhead. The sterile scent of disinfectant lingered in the air, a constant reminder of the solemnity of the place. Haitao turned to Kendrick, the tension between them palpable. "Did you not seal the island when you went?" he asked, his voice low. Curiosity swirled within him, bolstered by an unease that clung to every word exchanged.

Kendrick grimaced, his normally composed demeanor fracturing slightly. "Catherine had used Grandmother's name to gain entry. I was blindsided." His eyes, dark and stormy, reflected both anger and disbelief as he raked a hand through his hair. It was rare for Kendrick to be caught off guard; he prided himself on being thorough and meticulous about the fortress they'd built around their family's privacy. Kendrick's disgust was palpable.