Chapter 867

A dismissive laugh escaped Hamilton. "Alright,consider this my one act of generosity today. Fifty million will hit your account right away."

Alexander's response came out in a low, indistinct mutter.

Hamilton's expression turned icy, a sharp glint flickering in his eyes

So that was what Daniela was truly afraid of

That night, a significant sum was transferred from Hamilton's private account.

The next day, Hamilton instructed his secretary. "Get Nikolas on the phone. Tell him I want him home today."

A pause followed, then Hamilton added, "Damon too.Make sure he comes back."

Without a word, the secretary set about making the calls. But nothing unfolded as expected.

Damon responded, "I'm tied up with work, so I'm not coming.If you want help digging up Daniela's secrets,I'm out. I haven't touched a cent of the family's money, and I plan to keep it that way Leave me out of whatever mess you're planning. Don't even tell me about it."

He didn't wait for a reply, hanging up right away

After that, the secretary tried reaching Nikolas

Nikolas didn't even bother answering.

News of this only made Hamilton's mood darker. "Oh,so now that they're independent, they can ignore their own father. Go to Nikolas' company and tell him this-if he refuses to come back, he can forget about coming back ever again!"

Reluctantly, the secretary made his way to Nikolas 'workplace but wasn't even allowed past the front door

That humiliation did nothing to improve Hamilton's temper. Eventually, he cornered Nikolas at a crowded banquet, unable to contain his angger.

"How could you be so ungrateful? I'm still your father Don't tell me I have to make an appointment just to talk to you."

Nikolas, sharp in his tailored suit, stared him down with a look that gave nothing away

Hamilton sneered, "All I did was take one small business from you. Was that worth all this anger?McCoy Group will be yours someday. Word is,Daniela's the one backing your company. So in the end,you're still working under someone, aren't you? I just don't get it. You used to listen without question.What changed? Never mind. I won't keep going back and forth with you today. I'm still your father, so I'll let this slide. I have something I want you to take care of If you can pull it off, I'll wvelcome you back into the family.You'll take over McCoy Group."

A bitter smile played on Nikolas' lips. "Me? Taking over McCoy Group? Come on, Father. Isn't Cedric the one you've always wanted to take over? Why would you even consider me?"

Hamilton met his gaze, unflinching. "That was true.Cedric was my first choice. But his future is set-he doesn't need this anymore."

Confusion flickered in Nikolas' eyes. "What future are you talking about?"

A trace of pride slipped into Hamilton's voice."The princess of Loglil is interested in him and wants to marry him. When the king is gone, Cedric will step up He'll be king. Loglil is powerful and rich. Cedric won't care about taking over McCoy Group."

For a moment, Nikolas looked stunned. Then,laughter erupted from him-sharp and humorless. So now you remember me, Father, just because Cedric has no use for it anymore? If the princess hadn't picked him, would I still be invisible to you? I've poured everything I have into McCoy Group all these years, and this is what I am to you? Just the backup plan? Only good enough for what Cedric turns down?Do my years of dedication mean nothing to you at all?"

His words rang out, frustration bubbling over.

Hamilton's expression grew icy. "Enough shouting.You should be grateful. If the princess hadn't picked Cedric, you'd have nothing. When you inherit McCoy Group,you'll need to listen to Cedric. He'll have more power than you ever will."

Nikolas' mouth twisted in resignation. "In the past,I followed your orders. In the future, I'll listen to Cedric.That's what you're saying, isn't it?"

Hamilton struck Nikolas across the face and shouted,"Do you even hear yourself? This is an opportunity most people wouldn't dare dream of, and somehow you make it sound like you're the one being wronged.Let me make this clear. McCoy Group isn't handing you anything for free. If you want it, you'll have to prove yourself by doing something for me!"

Nikolas lowered his gaze, the weight in his chest already dragging him down. "To you, I've never been more than someone who leans on others. What do you honestly think I'm capable of doing for you?"