Chapter 444

Natalie reiterated,"One hundred million dollars."

Elyse gulped. "Where am I supposed to come up with that kind of money?"

Natalie narrowed her eyes, catching the flicker of hesitation in Elyse's gaze. "Selling this villa would fetch exactly one hundred million."

Natalie pressed on, "You promised, didn't you? You said one villa was no big deal. Once Daniela and Cedric are gone, the Harper family's fortune will be yours. Then a villa-whether one, ten, or even a hundred-won't matter."

Elyse had, in fact,said those very words."But-"

"What's wrong, Mom? Having second thoughts? Have you changed your mind about killing Daniela? Did you strike some kind of deal with her? Do you not want her dead anymore?"

Natalie was perceptive.

Elyse retorted, "Wait, one hundred million is just for Daniela. What about Cedric? If he lives, we won't get a dime."

Natalie smirked. "Before the assassin takes out Daniela, have Cedric completey undler my spell and many me."

Elyse eyed Natalie skeptically: "You? Are you serious?You're pretty, but compored to Daniela-in looks.talent, brains, and strategy-you're lacking. Do you really think Cechic would pick you?

Natalie's jow dropped at her mother's blunt words."Mom,what did you just say?"

Elyse looked away. "Tm just stating the truth. Youve been at Elite Lux for quite a while, but Cedric barely pays you any attention. if anything, he ta's to Nina more than he talks to you. r'il think it over, r'm heading upstairs."

With that, Elyse rushed upstairs, leaving Natalie behind.watching her retreating figure with narrowed eyes.

Moments later, Natalie dialed a law firm. "Hello,r'd like to know how to sell a villa that's under my mother's name."

The lawyer responded. "Unless the owner consents.you have no authority to sell it."

After a brief pause, the lawyer continued, "However, it the owner passes away, as the heiress, you'd have the right to sell it."

Natalie ended the call, her mind churning.

In the car, Lillian glanced at Daniola, puzzled. "Daniela.are you seriously giving Elyse that land for a retirement home?"

Daniela barely glanced up from her phone. "You really think that's happening?"

Lillian frowned."Then why buy it?"

Daniela smirked. "It's Cedric's birthday gift."

Lillian gasped. "That's beyond extravagant!" A birthday gift costing over a billion was unreal.

Lillian leaned in. "And Elyse? What's your move?"

Daniela's smile waned slightly. "Once desperation hits,they'll turn to their backer. Just wait a little more;the time is near."

As Daniela's car neared the villa, her phone buzzed.

She stepped out to take the call,while Lillian crossed her arms,waiting.

"Hello?"

A thrilled voice crackled through. "Daniela, there's a hundred-million-dollar hit on you."

Daniela's gaze flicked to the glowing villa. Through the vast windows, the interior was clearly visible.

Cedric,now in fresh lounge wear,lounged on the sofa,engaged in a phone call.

Just then, her other phone buzzed, yet she chose not to answer right away.Instead. Daniela addressed the caller, "Russell, did they send the money?" She suspected Natalie was behind it.

"Nope. They just mentioned selling a villa."

"Alright, our doors are open to all. If they bring business, accept it." Daniela said.

Russell chuckled."Who's feeling generous enough to spend that much on your head? So,Daniela,how would you like to go?"

Just before she could reply, the villa door swung open.revealing Cedric stepping into the light, approaching her.

"Enough with the jokes. Ensure they pay up quickly."

Russell snickered. "Imagine their reaction when they realize they're funding our boss's assassination."

Daniela responded coolly. "I have to go."

Cedric asked, "Who was that? What assassination?"

Daniela smiled. "No one. You must be mistaken."

That night,in bed, a bedside lamp cast a warm glow.

The gentle, amber light stretched across the floor and walls.

After a fervent moment, Cedric pulled Daniela close.

murmured against her ear. "I know there's a lot ve. keep from me, but Daniela, I'm your husband.Do you get that? I know I can't sway you, but let me be clear about this. Daniela, you don't have to share everything with me, but if you allow yourself to be hurt, it will break me."