Early the next morning, Lance indeed learned the latest news about Deanna from Xavier.
He frowned and looked over, his tone filled with disbelief, "Are you saying that it was Bella who took Deanna?"
"Yes."
We might have wronged Eula. Although Xavier didn't say this out loud, Lance understood.
His eyes darkened, and he remained silent. He believed that if Bella had taken Deanna, it would be impossible for the Cody family to do so without leaving any traces. Therefore, there must be someone else behind Bella.
Eula was likely that accomplice. As for Bella, given Eula's personality, she was probably used as a scapegoat to divert attention.
Thinking of this, Lance coldly ordered, "You have half a day to find out Bella's whereabouts."
"Should we continue to suppress Eula's side?" Xavier asked.
Lance squinted and thought for a moment before deciding, "Tell Randall to pause for now, and inform Mr. Martinez as well."
"Understood."
Xavier left to carry out the orders.
Not long after, Gunner received the news and hurried over.
As soon as he entered the study, he walked briskly towards Lance, his tone not very pleasant, "Xavier just informed me to stop suppressing Eula's family. Why?"
"It's only temporary. I want to see if that woman will slip up once she relaxes. Also, I have new information about Deanna. She was taken by Bella."
"Bella?"
Gunner looked puzzled, not understanding why another person suddenly came into the picture. However, the name sounded familiar to him.
Lance noticed his confusion and explained, "Bella's family used to be close with the Mercer family. Last year, due to some issues, the two families cut ties and they moved away from Cloudmere."
Even with this simple explanation, Gunner realized which Cody family it was and showed displeasure on his face.
"Another one of your entanglements!"
Lance was speechless and didn't know how to respond.
Seeing this, Gunner snorted lightly, "No wonder the name sounded so familiar."
He paused for a moment, as if he had thought of something, and his face showed concern.
"That woman always wanted to get rid of Deanna. If Deanna is in her hands, it doesn't bode well."
"I know. I've already sent Xavier to track Bella's movements. We should have news by this afternoon at the latest," Lance said gravely.
Indeed, that afternoon, Xavier found out that ten days ago, Bella had rented a yacht and sailed to Abla. She was currently at Chelsea Quays in Abla.
Upon hearing this news, Lance immediately ordered, "Arrange a helicopter. We'll leave for the dock in half an hour."
Gunner saw his determination and realized he wanted to go personally.
"I can go to the dock. You should stay home. Your health has been through a lot these past few days. If you push yourself any further, even the best doctors won't be able to help you."
"No, I need to go personally. And you will come with me. Whether it's me or Deanna, if anything happens, having you there will give us peace of mind," Lance insisted.
Gunner listened and eventually agreed, "Alright. I'll prepare the travel bags and some emergency medical supplies. Don't forget to inform Deanna's grandmother."
"I know," Lance replied.
After sending Gunner off, Lance had someone push him downstairs.
As he reached the staircase, he heard voices coming from the living room.
It was his mother comforting the elderly lady, "Don't worry too much. Palpitations can also be caused by physical discomfort. Besides, Deanna is a smart girl; she'll definitely protect herself."
"I hope so," Old Ashley said dejectedly before choking up, "That poor child has such a hard life. Just when things were looking up for her, bad things keep happening one after another."
Samantha felt awkward hearing this and didn't know how to respond. After all, Deanna's current predicament was indirectly caused by Lance's past relationships.
Fortunately, Lance arrived in the living room just then.
The attention of both elders shifted immediately.
"Lance, why are you down here? Are you feeling better? I was planning to check on you later," Samantha asked with concern.
Old Ashley also looked at Lance with questioning eyes.
Seeing this, Lance said, "I've found news about Deanna. In half an hour, I plan to go with Mr. Martinez to find her. I hope you and Mother can take care of things at home."
"You have news about Deanna? That's wonderful! Go ahead; your father and I will handle everything here," Samantha said joyfully.
Old Ashley was also very excited.