Chapter 1053

Just as they were about to hit play on the surveillance footage, Makiko stepped into the room. Wrapped in a snug, plush robe, she had that cozy yet alluring vibe going

on.

"Sorry, Dad," she said, her voice a bit husky, "I've caught a cold, so I couldn't come right away." Her clunky English reminded Josefina of those old war movies where everyone speaks in awkward accents. There's an old saying, "The wise adapt to the times."

Josefina lowered her gaze, trying to hide the smile tugging at her lips. Brandon, hearing Makiko's voice, felt his earlier calm start to unravel. He wasn't keen on chatting with her.

Cole gestured for Makiko to sit. "Just take a seat, Makiko. We're about to check out some surveillance footage."

Makiko looked confused. "What footage?"

Cole gave her the rundown, pointing at the TV. "We're going to watch the footage to figure out who broke into the house and tampered with Dad's door lock."

Makiko's eyes widened as it clicked. "Dad, you need to get to the bottom of this. We can't let them get away with it."

Ignoring her, Brandon gave Bennett a nod. "Alright, let's get started."

The TV came to life, showing a shadowy figure sneaking through the pitch-black hallway. The intruder sprinkled some powder on the fingerprint lock and started entering codes. Three tries, all incorrect. Frustrated, they smacked the lock, grunting in pain, and then pulled out tools to continue their attempt. After struggling for a while, the alarm went off, and everyone knew how it went from there.

Cole frowned. "Dad, we can't identify the person from this footage."

Sandi huffed, "Darn it, they slipped away!"

Wilder chimed in, "We should check the surrounding cameras. This person isn't invisible; they must've left some trace."

Oliver added, "Harry already checked the footage from around the estate, but there wasn't a single soul leaving."

His words left everyone exchanging uneasy glances.

Bennett concluded, "The culprit must be someone on the inside."

Brandon nodded, "I agree with Bennett. If no one came in or out, it has to be an inside job!"

Cole promised, "Dad, we'll do everything we can to help with the investigation."

Josefina added, "There's another possibility. The intruder might still be on the estate. A thorough search could reveal them."

Brandon agreed, "Josie's right. Let's do it."

Makiko hesitated, "Does that mean our rooms will be searched too?"

Brandon turned to Cole, "Explain it to your wife. We need to search

everywhere to clear your name In

don want something this

small

messing up our family ties

Wilder backed him up, "Grandpa's right. Dad, we need to cooperate!"

Makiko glanced at her son but stayed quiet.

Josefina praised, "Wilder, you're a role model for all of us. We should all strive to be like you."

Wilder blushed under Josefina's approving gaze, his eyes sparkling with a bit of embarrassment.

Oliver discreetly pinched Josefina's

na's

side, making her giggle softly. She playfully pinched him back, and the two exchanged affectionate nudges.

Makiko noticed their little exchange and looked down.

The search of Brandon's house

began. Oliver

nod, and Harry along with ot gave Harry a subtle et

the message loud and clear content