The boy had easily seen through something that none of the adults had noticed.
On top of that, he even kept it to himself and played along so that no one would discover the truth about his father's condition.
Only after everyone had left did he finally bring up his worries.
My poor boy, he must have suffered a lot.
"You silly boy." Zayn put on a relaxed front despite the stabbing pain in his chest. With a smile, he said to Randy, "Look at me. Aren't I just fine? I can see your charming little face, and I can also see your light blue shirt and navy knitted vest. You look like a gentleman! What made you think there's something wrong with my eyes?"
"Are you really okay?" Randy waved a hand in front of his father's face.
"I'm fine. Really."
Suppressing his heartache, Zayn took Randy's hand and pulled the boy into an embrace.
"You're only six years old, Randy. You should be as carefree as Josh and Venus are, living your life without any worries. Leave the important matters to the adults."
Randy choked up. "I know that, but I just can't stop myself from overthinking. Sometimes, I also feel that being too smart isn't a good thing. It's like I understand everything that's happening, but there's nothing I can do."
Zayn held his son even more tightly. In truth, he used to feel the same way when he was young.
As a child, he saw through everything that happened between the adults around him.
Yet, he did not have the power to protect his loved ones.
It would have been better not knowing anything and simply growing up like every other naïve child.
Unfortunately, just like Randy, the young Zayn could not stop worrying.
Such conflicting feelings were utterly tormenting.
"I'll protect you no matter what happens, Randy, " Zayn said gently while patting the child on the back. "You don't have to be afraid of anything as long as I'm with you. Don't worry about anything. Just grow up happily like every other kid, okay?"
Randy wanted to agree, but he knew he could not do as asked.
"All right, lad, I have some sorting out to do. Mr. Thompson's coming over in a while. Why don't you go play in the garden?" Zayn coaxed.
"I have to deal with some matters, so I'll be in my study." Randy gazed at him. "If something comes up, could you let me know? Maybe I can be of help."
"You've already been a great help. Have you forgotten? Divine Corporation's managed to come up with several new tech products thanks to you." Zayn stroked the boy's head.
"I meant—" Before Randy could say anything more, a knock sounded at the door, followed by Benard's voice. "Mr. Giblo! Mr. Thompson has arrived."
"Lead him to the dining room. I'll be right there to have breakfast with him, " replied Zayn.
"Yes, Sir." Benard headed downstairs.
"Well, I'll be going now." Randy gave Zayn a hug before turning to leave.
Zayn's chest tightened as he watched his son walk away, albeit feeling assured about having a successor at the same time.
At least I know that when I'm gone one day, Giblo Group will be safe in his hands. Still, someone's going to have to call the shots before that day comes.
At that thought, Zayn grew solemn. I have to be extra prepared. If Carla doesn't come back, I need to keep Giblo Group alive for at least twelve more years until Randy turns eighteen. That's still a long way to go. I'll have to lay all the foundations out before that.
Then, he quickly washed up, changed his clothes, and headed downstairs to meet Thompson.
Meanwhile, Randy sat in front of his computer in the study, searching for Daemon's whereabouts.
He had inadvertently found out from Bugara that Zayn was looking for someone named Derelo, who was Daemon's close friend. I have to find Uncle Dan first.
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