Chapter 543

Andrew stood frozen, his mind reeling. Fred sat calmly before him, speaking with a comforting and bewildering certainty. Fred watched Andrew's expression of shock, giving a soft, knowing smile. "Your father and I had hoped you wouldn't have to learn about this part of the world so soon. But now, it seems like you've already stepped into it." With a heavy sigh, Fred seemed to come to a pivotal decision. "You've always wanted to know the truth about what happened 17 years ago, haven't you? Well, I can tell you now, Andrew—your mother is still alive." The revelation hit Andrew like a bolt of lightning. He shot up from his chair in excitement, his eager expression seeming to seek confirmation that what Fred said was true. At that moment, his heart was instantly filled with overwhelming shock. His mother, Faith McCarthy, was actually still alive. He even felt as if his thoughts had momentarily come to a halt. Without Andrew needing to ask, Fred spoke up, "Maybe you've already guessed