Chapter 206

In the midst of the burgeoning Al project, Daniela was buried under an avalanche of work.

Unbeknownst to her, Caiden stumbled upon her deep financial commitments while tuning into the evening news.

As the anchor relayed the staggering figures invested, a seed of resentment sprouted in Caiden's heart against Daniela.

That night, long after the witching hour, Caiden perched in the living room, awaiting Daniela's return. The moment she stepped through the door, his greeting sliced through the silence. "Busy night?"

Daniela paused, noting his presence-a rare occurrence. A slight smile played on her lips."What an odd surprise."

Caiden detected the undertone of sarcasm and clenched his fists, only to relax them with effort and muster a smile. "Odd? You're spouting nonsense. It's late. How about I whip up something for you to eat?"

Massaging her temples, Daniela sensed an ulterior motive."Cut to the chase."

Caiden's face felt slapped by her directness.

Though he aimed for friendliness, her cold response stung him. He ruminated on the bitterness of nurturing such an ungrateful daughter.

Although Caiden was cursing in his head, he forced a smile. "Daniela, the news today mentioned your massive investment in that robotics venture. Billions, right? It's a bold stroke that even paints me in a good light."

Daniela took a slow sip of water, her eyes locking with his, awaiting the inevitable twist.

Caiden lacked subtlety; his intentions were plain for anyone to see.

But Daniela chose to feign ignorance, remaining silent for a few moments longer. Caiden blurted out, "If you're pouring money into some speculative Al project, why not redirect some into Harper Group? It's our own company."

"I'm swamped," Daniela replied, her voice cold as she took another sip.

Caiden struggled to mask his irritation, hls jaw tight as he tried to keep his smile. "I get you're swamped. But consider this: you invest, and I'H run the ship. What do you say?"

His eyes gleamed with hopeful anticipation, hoping she would say okay.

Instead, Daniela's response was cutting. "You think you can manage? Harper Group was once a titan here.Its decline under your watch isn't a mystery. I'm biting my tongue now, so don't push me, or I might just spell it out."

Caiden's face froze.

She was clearly pointing to his failures at steering the company.

He never truly desired the helm; the business bled money, and daily he was pecked at by Katrina and Joyce for more.

He realized, perhaps too late, that Brylee had been the backbone of their finances.

This thought was discomforting, and he brushed it aside, fixing Daniela with a look of faint indignation."If you won't trust me, take the reins yourself. Throw billions at Harper Group like you did with that tech firm.I can't see why we can't resurrect it."

As he spoke, his eyes darted to the staircase. He thought the gesture went unnoticed. But Daniela caught it instantly.

Turning towards the stairs, she spotted two elongated shadows. Her smirk was frosty. "Very well.If that's your wish, I have no objections."

Caiden was taken aback by her swift acquiescence. After a pause, he asked in disbelief, "You agree?"

Daniela nodded. "I just said so." At that moment, the front door swung open, and Cedric entered, bringing a chill with him. His tense expression softened upon seeing Daniela."Daniela."

Caiden's unease intensified with Cedric's arrival, fearing a disruption to his plans. He rushed to continue,"So,how much are you thinking of investing in Harper Group?"

Caiden noted Cedric positioning himself beside Daniela.

Cedric's gaze fixed on her as if deciphering a puzzle.

Her tone remained composed. "Whatever you deem necessary, I'll provide."

Caiden's spirits soared.

Cedric added casually, "And if that's insufficient, I'll contribute too."

Caiden's eyes sparkled with the prospect. It felt like an unexpected windfall.

When he spoke again, his voice quivered with excitement, his thoughts spiraling with endless possibilities.Fixing his eyes on Daniela, he said, "Dear, not too much. A billion or so? Harper Group once stood as a colossus. A billion shouldn't be excessive,right?"

A billion!

At present, both Caiden and the entire Harper Group wouldn't fetch nearly that if sold outright.

He was essentially shooting for the stars.

Then,turnng to Cedric, Caiden said, "We won't trouble you. My daughter can manage on her own."

It wasn't that Caiden didn't desire Cedric's funds. His distrust for Cedric's cunning was simply greater,fearing a single false step could see him lose Harper Group entirely.