?Chapter 1449:


    Niks and Damon still hesitated, a flicker of doubt in their eyes. But Hamilton stood firm, exuding his usual air ofmand and unshakable authority. “Cut the crap and bring them here!”


    Niks and Damon returned and stood before Dani, rying Hamilton’s message in hushed, cautious tones.


    “All right. What time should we be there?” Dani asked calmly.


    Damon shifted ufortably, worry flickering in his eyes. “Maybe you shouldn’t go.”


    Dani looked up with a teasing smile. “What’s this? You’re not scared of your father anymore?”


    Damon gave a half-hearted shrug. “He’s always angry anyway. One more reason won’t make a difference.”


    Dani offered a gentle reassurance. “It’s fine.” She had intended to face Hamilton sooner orter. She needed to confirm the real culprit for her mother’s death and the explosion; she didn’t want to go after the wrong person.


    When Hamilton’s birthday arrived, the group made their appearance at thevish celebration.


    Hamilton looked visibly pleased. “Dani, you must try this red wine I just uncorked—it’s absolutely divine.”


    As he spoke, he exchanged a nce with Alexander, then his gaze settled on Cedric. He gave a slow nod, clearly pleased with what he saw.


    Cedric struck him as a mirror of his younger self—calm under pressure, razor-sharp, and unmistakably gifted in business. Lately, Cedric’s name had been buzzing through Oiscoll’s business circles with praise—and that filled Hamilton with a quiet pride. Kohen stood off to the side, finding Hamilton’s satisfaction somewhat stinging.


    “Cedric,” Hamilton said with a faint smile, “I’d like a word with you in private. Join me in my studyter.”


    Kohen tensed at once. “Father!” he blurted out, rmed.


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    Hamilton didn’t spare Kohen a nce. His gaze stayed fixed on Cedric. “You’re my son. It’s my birthday. You wouldn’t turn me down, would you?”


    Cedric didn’t care much for birthdays—least of all Hamilton’s. The only reason he’de was because Dani had her ns, and he didn’t want her going alone.


    “The ce is crawling with reporters. You wouldn’t let your old man lose face, would you, Cedric? Don’t worry, I’ve got no tricks up my sleeve. I’m seventy, you’re…”


    “My son, what harm could I possibly intend? Besides, it’s my birthday. What harm could I bring you today? Believe me, as your father, all I want is what’s best for you.”


    Cedric said tly, “There’s no need to go to your study. If you have something to say, say it here.”


    He had no intention of making things easy for Hamilton.


    Hamilton didn’t take offense; he smiled instead. “That temper—just like mine when I was your age. Fine. I’ll bring thewyerter, and we’ll find somewhere nearby to talk in peace.”


    The meaning was unmistakable—Hamilton intended to formally acknowledge Cedric as his son.


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