Chapter 17

The hospital corridor smelled of disinfectant. Fabian stood outside the ward. He stared through the glass at Matthew's pale face. His fists clenched so tightly that his nails dug deep into his palms. Blood trickled from his fingers, but he felt nothing. Matthew slowly opened his eyes. When his gaze settled on Fabian, disappointment and exhaustion weighed heavily in his eyes. His voice was hoarse, barely above a whisper, as if every word drained the last of his strength. "Fabian, if you insist on being with Valerie, I'll revoke your position as the head of Porter Group. I'll adopt a son from outside. You'll no longer be the heir to the Porter family." Fabian's fists tightened even more, but his expression remained calm. His voice was unwavering as he said, "I'll give up everything, Dad." "Fabian, do you even hear yourself? You're the heir of the Porter family and the head of Porter Group! Are you really giving up your family responsibilities for a woman?" "I know I've disappoint