Chapter 492

"You can go, but you must be accompanied." Ethan Roscente's voice carried undisputed authority through the phone.

Theo nodded obediently. "Got it!"

As soon as the call ended, Ethan immediately dialed the private line to the Roscente Family Estate's head butler.

Since taking custody of Theo, he had moved back from Vivian Laurent's old apartment to the ancestral mansion. Its advanced security system and professional staff were better suited for childcare.

"Assign four bodyguards to follow Theo," he ordered sternly. "Maintain constant contact. Notify me immediately of any irregularities."

Only after giving these instructions did Ethan return to work.

Less than thirty minutes later, the butler called again.

"What happened?" Ethan's chest tightened.

"Sir, young master Theo... he went to..."

"Speak clearly!"

"Capital General Hospital! He said he wanted to secretly visit Mrs. Laurent!"

Ethan pinched the bridge of his nose.

He hadn't anticipated Theo would take initiative to find Vivian. With critical project deadlines looming, he couldn't leave work.

"Double the security detail," he conceded. "If Dr. Laurent shows any displeasure, remove Theo immediately."

......

Vivian hurried down the hospital corridor.

She had rotated through three departments without a water break. Just as her lunch break began, Pediatrics summoned her urgently.

"Dr. Laurent!" A nurse intercepted her. "An autistic patient is experiencing sudden abdominal pain but refuses to communicate..."

"I'm on my way."

Vivian turned toward Pediatrics but collided with a small figure at the corner.

"Oof!"

A boy wearing a cartoon-patterned mask fell backward, still clutching a bubble tea. His round eyes blinked up at her.

Vivian immediately knelt. "I'm so sorry, sweetheart. I didn't see you. Are you hurt?"

Theo recognized his long-admired aunt instantly.

"Young master!" Three black-suited bodyguards arrived breathlessly.

Vivian stood. "I'm a pediatrician heading that way. If you're concerned, we can examine him together."

"Okay!" Theo chirped.

He studied Vivian shyly before offering his drink. "Here, this is for you!"

Close call—he'd almost called her "Auntie" aloud.

Theo mentally cheered. First, he'd befriend Vivian. Only after gaining her trust would he reveal his identity. An early confession might scare her away.