?Chapter 1137:


    But now, Connor saw the truth. Aelfric wanted to use Derek to trace Dr. Finley’s whereabouts and secretly obtain the coboration results between the Daniels Group and Windsoul Robots.


    “Derek’s father is still alive,” Connor said, his voice as smooth as velvet over steel. “Though I lead the Daniels family, I can’t just elbow aside his biological father when ites to matters as personal as marriage. Aren’t you approaching the wrong person?”


    “I’m well aware of that,” Aelfric replied, his tone unfaltering. “But since Derek’s father is currently being held in confinement by you, I had no choice but to bring this matter to you. Melinda and Derek are truly in love, and they want to move forward with the wedding. Surely you can understand that.”


    “Ah, so discussing marriage is merely the cover story. What you’re really here for is to prod me into releasing Derek, isn’t it?” Connor leaned back, his smile sharp enough to cut ss.


    Aelfric mirrored his smile, though his was softer, more measured. “Mr. Daniels, I mean no offense, but Derek is your nephew. While discipline is important, surely you wouldn’t let ite at the cost of his lifelong happiness?”


    “Well, with you framing it like that, I suppose there’s no reason to refuse,” Connor said, his voiceced with irony.


    Turning to Domenic, Connor gave the order with a casual flick of his hand. “Let Cade know—Neil’s family is to write a ten-thousand-word letter of repentance and endure one hundredshes before being released.” Connor had been nning to let Neil’s family go anyway, eager to see how Neil would reach out to the shady organization once freed. Aelfric’s request simply provided the perfect pretext.


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    But, of course, Connor wouldn’t make it easy on them—there had to be enough sting to maintain appearances.


    “Understood,” Domenic said with a quick nod before hurrying off to carry out the order.


    Connor turned back to Aelfric, his smirk firmly in ce. “Anything else you’d like to discuss, Mr. Warren?”


    Aelfric hesitated. He hadn’t picked up on Connor’s game, but a gnawing unease began to take root in his chest.


    “Mr. Daniels, you can’t be serious about theshes,” he finally said, forcing a smile. “Derek’s about to get married. One hundredshes will leave him looking like roadkill. With his delicate frame, he’ll be bedridden for weeks. You’ll ruin any chance of him looking the part of the dashing groom. Need I remind you of the engagement party fiasco? The inte trolls are still feasting on that disaster. Do you really want your nephew to be theughingstock of the entire city on his wedding day as well?”


    Though Aelfric had be a pawn of the shady organization, one thing remained steadfast—his devotion to his sister. No matter how dire his situation, he was determined to secure the perfect wedding for Melinda.


    The engagement fiasco had been a disaster, and he still burned with regret. This time, he vowed there would be no blunders.


    Connor, however, was far from forgiving. Just the memory of Derek helping frame Marissa sent fury coursing through his veins. His response to Aelfric was as sharp and final as a guillotine’s drop.


    “The men in our family aren’t made of ss, Aelfric. This punishment is about toughening Derek up. But don’t worry—his face will be spared. He’ll still look good for the wedding photos.”


    Connor’s unwavering resolve left no room for negotiation. Defeated, Aelfric could only muster a stiff nod before making his exit.


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