Mommy，We Got a Husband

Alaric wasn't buying that this was just some random accident; it was way too convenient.

"Man, I doubt the investigation's gonna dig up much; just a hunch," Alaric said.

Cormac chimed in, "Accident or not, Nexus Innovations is taking a hit. The official statement's getting trashed online, and some of those keyboard warriors even..." "Even what? Why'd you stop?" Alaric had skimmed the comments, but he got the gist.

Cormac went on, "Most folks are dragging Galatea through the mud, telling you to ditch her. These online trolls, man."

Alaric had seen those comments before; they were brutal.

"I think there's more to this public opinion mess. I've got Silas on it," Alaric said, noticing someone lurking by the office door. "Who's out there?" he barked. The door creaked open, and Tommy stepped in.

"Mr. Knight, Mr. Nash," Tommy said, handing over some documents. "I was just delivering these and heard you talking, so I waited outside."

So, he wasn't snooping on purpose?

Alaric said, "Next time, if you hear someone in my office, just leave. No need to hang around."

"Got it, Mr. Knight," Tommy replied.

"Leave the docs and get back to work," Alaric instructed.

After Tommy left, Alaric turned to Cormac, "What do you think of Tommy?"

"Tommy?" Cormac was caught off guard. "Why do you ask?"

"Just curious," Alaric said.

Cormac shrugged, "He seems humble and eager to learn. Galatea pays him well, but he doesn't have much to do, so he keeps busy by taking on extra tasks. Even helps out Silas. Other employees think highly of him." Alaric thought, 'Everyone likes Tommy? But something feels off. If I'm right, dealing with him won't be easy, especially with his ties to Josep.'

Cormac patted Alaric's shoulder. "Take care of yourself first. Don't stress about the company. We've settled with the deceased's family, and they're willing to sign a letter of understanding. The online hate will blow over soon." "Let's hope so," Alaric sighed.

After Cormac left, Alaric glanced at the documents Tommy had brought. He had to admit, aside from the construction site mess, the company's been running smoothly under Stellan's watch.

The phone rang; it was already 6:30 PM. Seeing Stellan's name, Alaric realized he'd lost track of time. He quickly answered, "Galatea."

"Alaric, you coming home? Dinner's served," Stellan said, knowing how stressed he'd been lately. She'd even cooked for him tonight.

"Alright, I'm heading home now." Alaric hung up, shut down his computer, and left the office. Passing by Tommy's office, he saw the guy still grinding away. "Still here?" Alaric asked.

"Mr. Knight." Tommy jumped up. "Just finishing this document, then I'm out."

Alaric glanced around. "Where's Silas?"

"Silas had to leave early for some personal stuff. He's swamped, so I'm helping him out," Tommy replied.

"Good to see you're motivated," Alaric said, stepping into the elevator. Maybe he was overthinking things. Having a hardworking employee should be a plus, right?

As Alaric pulled into the driveway, Stellan came out to greet him, even opening the car door. "Alaric, you're back?"

"Yeah." Alaric wrapped an arm around Stellan and walked into the house, eyeing the table full of dishes.

"It's so late. If I'm not back, you should eat first. Don't wait up," Alaric said.

"I can't eat without you. But now that you're here, let's dig in," Stellan said, helping him with his coat and tie.

During dinner, Stellan kept piling food onto his plate.

Alaric chuckled. "You don't need to fuss over me. Eat your own food."

"Okay." Stellan nodded and started eating quietly.

They didn't chat much during the meal. Alaric avoided company talk, and Stellan didn't pry, not wanting to stress him out.

"Alaric, Josep's coming tomorrow for your treatment shot. You can't go to the office. I'll go instead," Stellan said. "I should take responsibility for this mess. I can't just hide at home." With all the negative buzz about Stellan and the execs' grumbling, Alaric was worried about her going to the office alone.

"You don't have to. Just rest at home," Alaric said.

Stellan felt a pang of sadness. 'Does he not trust me?'

"I think it's better if I go," Stellan insisted. "Don't worry, I can handle it."

"Better not. Just stay home," Alaric repeated.

"Alright then." Stellan didn't push it further.

Alaric was wiped out. After a shower, he hit the sack early. Stellan lay beside him, heart aching seeing him so drained.

She leaned over, kissed his cheek, and whispered, "I'm sorry, Alaric. I hope all this bad stuff blows over soon, and you get better." She closed her eyes and fell asleep in his arms. It was a good sleep, and the alarm woke her the next morning.

Mia came in, "Mr. Knight, Stellan, Josep is here."

Stellan checked the time. Just past 7 AM. Josep was really early.

Hearing that Josep had arrived, Alaric and Stellan quickly got up. Seeing them just waking up, Josep looked a bit sheepish.

"Did I come too early again? I'm getting old, waking up at five. Forgot you young folks don't keep the same hours," Josep said. "No, Josep, it's your disciplined lifestyle that we can't match," Stellan said.

"I've already had breakfast. You two eat quickly, and I'll start Mr. Knight's treatment after," Josep said, ready to get to work.