At this point, Mathias had grown very tired. He would rather face death calmly, knowing that it was useless to struggle anymore.

As a powerful and proud man, he wanted to maintain his dignity, especially in the face of death.

Therefore, since a week ago, Mathias had refused to use the hibernation pod and returned to his normal diet and daily life.

He insisted on having three meals a day and taking a nap every now and then. He would sit in a wheelchair in the yard to bask in the sun when the weather was nice.

He even grabbed the opportunity to mingle with some old friends a few days ago, who were also senior leaders of other clans that had maintained friendly contacts with the Smith family since a long time ago.

For him, enjoying life was the real essence of being alive.

However, one week's worth of normal activities accelerated the decline of Mathias' condition.

Julie didn't tell this to Bill and her two adopted daughters, who were all in Sheffield.

Initially, she thought of telling her father's decision to Maria, hoping that she could persuade her grandfather to continue using the hibernation pod instead.

But in the end, Julie dropped that idea. She realized what her father was trying to do.

Mathias' decision regarding his own life showed how courageous he was. She had no reason to disobey him or tarnish his dignity.

“I...”

Mathias seemed to have enough strength to talk, so he grabbed the chance.

He opened his mouth slowly, which immediately attracted everyone's attention in the room.

Julie, Cory, Ron, and the other members of the immediate family Looked and listened intently.

“My time is almost up. I can feel it..."

The old man could only move his cloudy eyes very slowly. Nonetheless, he glanced at everyone in the room with a faint but gratified smile. But at the same time, there was also a trace of regret in his eyes.

He owed his daughter too much and he didn‘t think he had done enough to make it up to her. But right now, he just didn't have much time left. "Cory..."

“Yes, Dad. I'm listening!" Cory hurriedly stood up as Mathias called his name.

“After I die... You are going to be in charge of the Smith family..."

Hearing this, tears immediately well up in Cory's eyes. But as the firstborn, he tried his best to show strength by holding back his tears.

“Also, it's now your job... To take good care of your sister... As well as Maria..."

Cory nodded repeatedly. However, he then realized something and asked in a low voice, "Only them? How about Bill and Vivian?"

The old man didn't answer directly, but his eyes had somewhat turned steely. Even without him answering, the look in his eyes already said it all.