“Come with me to the study. If you can persuade me, I’ll let you stay.”

Lise’s eyes flashed with disbelief. Why bother talking? They should just throw Katelyn out! If she cared that much about Carol, missing a final goodbye would haunt her forever. For Lise, true happiness no longer came from luxury bags or designer clothes—it came from watching Katelyn suffer. Her joy thrived on Katelyn’s misery.

Katelyn’s eyes held a trace of contemplation. Why was Neil bothering to talk to her, even allowing her to stay? It couldn’t be that simple—it had to be about the land.

Mabel spoke up, clearly displeased. “Neil, why are you still being soft on her? Don’t forget how much she’s hurt you. Just call the police and let them deal with it.”

Neil turned his wheelchair, facing away from everyone. They couldn’t see his expression, only the cold tone in his voice. “I’ll handle it, Mom. After all, my grandmother once cared for Katelyn.”

Neil rolled himself toward the study. Katelyn hesitated for a moment before following him. No matter how unreasonable Neil’s demands might be, she would agree—for Carol’s sake.

Neil’s study was spacious, cluttered with documents that needed attention on the desk. Neil had always kept the study off-limits to Katelyn, even when they were still married, making this her first time stepping inside. The towering bookshelves were packed with countless books, including many translated works from overseas.

Katelyn ignored the decor and got straight to the point.

“What do you want to discuss?”

“Let’s talk about what it will take for you to stay. I know you’re concerned about my grandmother, and whether you stay here is up to me. So please, watch your tone when you speak to me.” A flash of dissatisfaction crossed Neil’s eyes.

Katelyn treated him coldly and harshly, while she was always gentle with Vincent. Not too long ago, though, Katelyn had looked at him with eyes full of love and warmth. The sharp contrast in her attitude drove Neil wild.

Katelyn tried to soften her tone, but the disdain in her eyes was clear. “Why don’t you just tell me what you really want?” N?w ?ovel chapt?rs are published on FindN()vel.net

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Neil let out a cold laugh, lightly tapping his fingers on the desk. “I want that piece of oil field.”

Katelyn had expected this and replied immediately, “That’s impossible. I promised Grandma I would protect it. Try something else.”

Katelyn was in a vulnerable position now. Neil was right; she needed his help. To reach an agreement, they needed to find terms that worked for both of them.

Neil’s lips twisted into a cold smile. “That will be even harder for you to meet.”

Katelyn clenched her fists, her expression conflicted. She had a sinking feeling.

Negotiation

“What’s that?” Katelyn asked.

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