Den, catching wind of their hushed exchange, erupted into lLaughtera harsh, biting sound that sliced through the mor of the banquet hall like a whip crack.


    Well, well.


    Are we strategizing over who gets to meet their maker first? Rx, I have no ns to turn this castle into a graveyardat least, not tonight.


    Matthews brow furrowed deeply, his piercing gaze locking onto Den.


    Dont you think its time to drop the charade? Why drag us all here? Whats the endgame? A sly smile danced on Dens lips.


    His eyes narrowed just enough to hint at mischief.


    Matthew, weve barely had a proper heart-to-heart.


    Youre the young CEO of Prosperity Group, crowned so young.


    Surely, a man of your caliber has secrets worth learning.


    Perhaps its time you gave meand my grandson, Sanforda lesson or two.


    The boys going to need to fend for himself one day.


    Matthews voice turned icy, sharp as a de. If youve got something to say, spit it out.


    Theres no need for theatrics or a change of scenery.


    Den let out a low chuckle, the kind that crawled under your skin.


    Matthew, youre free to take Ste, but freedom isnt free, is it? Theres a price to pay.


    With that, Dens secretary stepped forward, his expression as nk as a clean te.


    In his hands, he held a document, which he presented to Matthew with the utmost respect.


    Matthews eyes swept over the page, and his jaw tightened.


    It was an ownership transfer agreement-Den was demanding everyst one of his Prosperity Group shares.


    Beside him, Ste felt the ground shift beneath her.


    Panic surged in her chest, and she clutched Matthews arm as if anchoring herself.


    Her eyes burned with determination and worry as she hissed, Matthew, dont sign that.


    Absolutely not! Matthew offered a gentle pat on Stes hand, a silent plea for calm.


    I know what Im doing, Ste. He then locked eyes with Den and said, Let Ste and Be leave safely, and I1lL sign the agreement.


    Stes reaction was immediate and visceral.


    Matthew, have you lost your mind? Why would you throw away everything just to keep us safe? Be quickly intervened, her voice thick with urgency as she faced Den.


    Look, if its money youre after, take my studio, take all my intellectual property.


    Just let them go, please.


    Dens reply was chillingly dismissive.


    Im dealing with Matthew here.


    The rest of you should back off.


    He then nodded at Sanford.


    Sanford, get Ste and Be out of here.


    You know them; itll make Matthew morefortable.


    Ste stood her ground, her voice resolute. No way Im leaving.


    Im staying right here with Matthew.


    Sanford caught the steadfastness in Stes gaze, a tug at his heartstrings making words seem pointless.


    He exhaled deeply and surrendered.


    Alright, Ill stay.


    Someone else will need to escort Ste.


    Ste ignored him, her focus unwavering on Matthew.


    She harbored no ill will toward Sanford.


    She understood that people had their loyalties, their people they must protect.


    If the roles were reversed, she might have made the same hard choices.


    The secretary attempted to usher Ste and Be out by force.


    Matthews nce toward Ste was fleeting yet filled with conflict.