Chapter 297



Dean was acutely aware of Stan’s ruthless tactics. After all, he had watched as Stan methodically dismantled Jake’s defenses.

If Jake, with all his resources and cunning, had lost to Stan, what hope did Dean have?

A mix of regret and rage simmered within Dean as he realized he had inadvertently invited a wolf into his life, one who now held sway over his future.

Despite Dean’s reluctant nod, Stan remained wary, knowing too well the fickleness of cornered opponents.

Stan produced a contract he had preemptively prepared, laying it out before Dean with cold precision.

As Dean skimmed through the document, despair gripped him. The contract was airtight, stipulating severe financial penalties and immediate legal consequences should he attempt any betrayal.

Worse yet, the contract stripped Dean of all his powers within the company, relegating him to a mere puppet whose strings were firmly in Stan’s hands. He was to be utterly dependent on Stan for everything, a position that left him both powerless and vulnerable.

Though every fiber of Dean’s being rebelled against the arrangement, his situation left him no viable alternatives.

Dean’s hands trembled as he inked his name on the contract, each stroke a testament to his defeat.

Stan, visibly pleased with the outcome, turned to address Melinda, who had managed a smile until that moment, “Dean remains the eldest son of the Reeves family, and you, his loyal wife. Continue as usual.”

Melinda’s smile quickly faded under the weight of Stan’s words, her anxiety palpable. She felt the sting of Dean’s icy stare and, gathering a semblance of courage, voiced a plea, her voice quivering slightly, “Can I move out with my daughter? I assure you, I won’t disclose anything or attempt to flee. It’s just… It’s becoming difficult to stay with him.”

Stan’s response was immediate and firm. “Of course not. What would people think if you moved out now? The contract stipulates that Dean is merely unwell, requiring my intervention on his behalf. If you were to leave him in such a condition, it would reflect poorly on all of us. I cannot permit you to leave the Reeves household. It’s for the good of everyone involved.”

Stan continued, his tone suggesting finality, “Besides, after this ordeal, I’m certain Dean will come to value you more and strive for a peaceful coexistence.”

Melinda looked at Stan, her expression one of disbelief. She knew better than to take his reassurances at face value, understanding that his insistence on her staying was not out of concern for her or Dean, but rather revenge for her refusing to be intimate with him.

Despite his power, Stan remained an illegitimate son whose face was disfigured, making him pitiful.

His appeal seemed limited to those like Courtney, whose loyalty could easily be misconstrued as misguided affection.

Stan was not a man driven by romantic desires. He sought control and leverage over others.

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