Chapter 111
No?!
Cassandra and Penelope froze at Nathan's refusal, their tearful act forgotten mid-performance.
Nathan Blackwood, you insolent brat! Leonard's blood pressure spiked dangerously.
His illegitimate son—the one he'd never favored—had rarely dared to defy him. Now, as CEO of Blackwood Industries, Nathan had the audacity to refuse him outright.
Nathan himself was startled by how easily the word had slipped out.
What the hell are you thinking?! Leonard roared. You were the one who wanted to divorce Evelyn! You insisted on marrying Victoria! And now, when I demand you finalize the divorce immediately, you say no?! Do you think you can keep multiple women like some kind of playboy? Marriage isn’t a game!
How did I raise such a disgrace?!
Keep multiple women? Nathan's lips curled into a cold smirk. Well, Father, since we’re family, I suppose I should follow your example.
You bastard!
Leonard lunged forward and struck Nathan hard across the face.
The sharp crack of the slap made Cassandra flinch.
A vivid red mark bloomed on Nathan’s pale cheek.
Leonard! Penelope rushed to his side, her voice dripping with false concern. Talk to him, don’t resort to violence! Nathan’s just impulsive—he didn’t mean to offend you! It’s not worth damaging your relationship over this!
Inside, she was gloating. Seeing Nathan humiliated was exactly what she wanted.
Penelope, I know you’ve always treated him like your own, but you’ve spoiled him rotten! Look at him now—arrogant, disrespectful! Leonard’s palm stung from the force of the blow, his face flushed with fury.
He’ll always be my child, Leonard. Besides… She lowered her eyes, feigning vulnerability. I’m not his real mother. If I weren’t kind to him, he’d never accept me. I just wanted to be a good mother.
Every word was a carefully placed dagger, disguised as submission.
Nathan scoffed. He’d seen through Penelope’s act since childhood—but he’d never bothered to expose her.
Because he knew Leonard didn’t care. If his older brother hadn’t been recovering in Silvercrest, Nathan would never have been handed Blackwood Industries.
Leonard had never favored him. Nothing he did mattered.
A child? He’s thirty! Stop making excuses for him!
Leonard jabbed a finger at Nathan’s face. You will do two things for me—now. Finalize the divorce with Evelyn and make her apologize to Cassandra in person. And suppress that scandal online immediately.
Nathan’s smile turned icy. Father, is this how you negotiate business? Slap first, demand later?
What—what did you just say?!
Even if you’re my father, business and personal matters should remain separate—especially when it affects the company. I won’t agree to your terms. Evelyn and I can’t divorce yet. I promised Grandfather we’d wait until his eightieth birthday. I won’t break that promise.
As for the scandal? His gaze flicked to Cassandra. She should issue a public apology. I won’t interfere.
Nathan! You—
Leonard’s face darkened. He raised his hand again—but this time, Nathan caught his wrist mid-swing.
Father, I’m thirty now. Do you really think you can still beat me into submission? Nathan’s voice was glacial.
Leonard’s eyes narrowed. A sharp pain shot through his wrist.