Victor Sullivan was reviewing documents when his assistant called.

"Chairman Sullivan, another person has come forward claiming to be your child."

Victor's fountain pen paused mid-stroke.

Thirty years had taught him to temper his expectations after countless disappointments.

"What's the situation this time?" His tone remained neutral.

"They contacted us through Missing Children Network. Claims to have a black mole on their left sole and type O blood."

Victor set down his pen. "Have them take a paternity test first."

"They insist on meeting you in person before any testing."

Victor's brow furrowed slightly.

Previous claimants had been eager to comply. This one was different.

"Schedule an appointment."

"Twelve-thirty at Kyoto Grand Hotel?"

"Agreed."

After hanging up, Victor dialed Audrey Sullivan.

"Join me for lunch with someone today."

Audrey's sketching pencil stilled. "Another claimant?"

"Mm. This one seems promising."

"Understood."

The call ended abruptly. Victor sighed and dialed Ethan Sullivan instead.

"Your advice didn't work."

Ethan muted his conference call. "What happened now?"

"I sat on the floor all night. Your mother threw a lamp at me."

Ethan massaged his temples.

"Father, have you considered pretending to be ill?"

"Tried that. Your mother has an iron will."

"Then you're on your own."

The dial tone left Victor disgruntled, but work soon reclaimed his attention.

Noon arrived precisely.

Pine Hall at Kyoto Grand Hotel.

Hank Chen waited nervously.

Audrey froze upon seeing him.

The young man bore striking resemblance to Victor in his youth—but with shifty eyes and affected mannerisms.

"May I see the mole?" Audrey asked.

Hank eagerly removed his shoe.

The mark's placement matched perfectly.

Audrey suppressed her excitement. "We'll await the test results."

A flicker of panic crossed Hank's eyes.

After lunch, the assistant escorted Hank for testing.

En route, Hank doubled back.

"Sir, a small favor?" He pressed an envelope toward the technician.

The staff member recoiled. "That's highly irregular."

"Thirty thousand afterward."

"The Sullivans aren't people to cross."

Hank left in frustration.

He dialed a number. "The old fox won't bite. Testing's impossible."

"Patience. I have another plan..."

Next evening.

Audrey's hands trembled holding the report.

Another dead end.

She brought two wine bottles to Sophia Laurent's home.

"A glass daily aids conception."

Sophia accepted them. "Thank you, Mother."

"If difficulties persist, I'll accompany you to the clinic."

Warmth flooded Sophia's chest.

Her phone rang—Shane Prescott calling.

"Ms. Laurent, are you available?"

"Certainly. Please come over."

Audrey cautioned before leaving: "Don't overexert yourself."

Dusk settled.

The doorbell chimed.

Sophia opened the door.

Shane entered carrying an attaché case.

His gaze turned glacial upon spotting Audrey in the living room.