255 Updates and plans 2 (1/2)

”The question is, do we need to investigate this further?”, Liz asked. ”We know that Jackson staged this seizure, probably to make Rina feel guilty and to reverse the break-up. Even without any further evidence, we can assume that he lied about any other seizure as well in order to manipulate Sabrina. And we also know that his parents are into it, the only question is: how deep their fingers go.”

Max agrees with Liz's point that all three members of the Adams family are guilty, and it does not matter how guilty they are, but… ”If we stop investigating, we might miss the other people who are part of this.”

”Like Jackson's doctor?”, Mia guessed.

Max confirmed. ”Even if he does not know what they are up to, he is staying willingly ignorant while supporting Jackson's story. And we have records of him taking large sums of money from the Adams family. Other people involved could be their extended family or friends. Probably someone who is close to Rina, or any of us. Based on what we found out today, we need to expand our search. Everyone who ever mentioned Jackson's illness is a potential suspect. They might have a minor role in this scheme, but the point is that they are willing to scheme against the Anderson family. And every next time, they will be bolder. I want to be aware of who they are and to remind them who we are...”

Liz listened to Max and she has to admit that what he said, makes sense. As Nathan's successor, Max took on himself the responsibility of running a large company and protecting his family. 'It must be stressful', Liz thought. He needs to ensure prosperity for his family and his employees and to prevent others who are trying to leech off from him. Suddenly, Liz felt guilty...

”Are you trying to find people who benefit from associating themselves with you?” Liz asked. ”But isn't that everyone? Even I benefited…”

”You are different.” Max cut Liz off. He turned to face her and looked into her eyes with a gentle gaze. ”You are my girlfriend and I am happy that my name can make your life easier. If anyone can use my name, that is you.”

Liz smiled. His words sounded like a promise and made her heart expand. ”Thank you, Max.”

Max gave her a light kiss on the lips before continuing: ”But some people are exaggerating and misusing my name even though they are not connected to me. I'm not saying that I want to destroy all of them, but this is a chance to find out who is doing it and to what extent.”

”This is the best time to keep tabs on Jackson and his parents.”, Hunter said. ”Now that their ship is sinking, they will reach out to their friends for help. And they will reach out first to the ones who know about this charade.”

Max agreed. He went on the terrace to make a phone call to Ian. They will tap the phones and any other electronic communication… and Max will arrange for someone to follow the three members of the Adams family.

Liz stood up and hesitated. She remembered that Mia is setting up traps for Hunter, and Liz does not want to be caught up in that. She is a doctor, not a ninja, alright?

”What's wrong?”, Mia asked Liz.

”I want to use the restroom, but I don't know if it's safe.”

Mia smiled. ”It's safe. No more traps.”

”Oho!” Liz exclaimed. ”Does that mean that that Hunter graduated, and you are going to visit your family?”

Mia bobbed her head. ”He is ready, but I'm not sure if I am and it seems that my dad is NOT ready. I called home and spoke with my father's assistant. He said that they will get back to me when they figure out what time works for them to host me and that they will see if they can accommodate my boyfriend.”

Liz thought about how that is strange. ”Is your dad so busy?”

”Not busy. He is angry that I didn't call or visit in a long time, so he wants to teach me a lesson.”, Mia said dejectedly. ”He is probably setting up new traps for me.”

Liz noticed one more thing... ”You said that you are coming with your BOY-FRIEND?”