Chapter 344
Chapter 344:
And yet, Leonel seemed far from celebratory.
“Honey, did something happen?” Aanya asked, her voice soft but edged with concern. “Did the shareholders’ meeting not go as smoothly as you expected p>
Though she tried to sound casual, her unease was growing.
Something must have gone terribly wrong.
Leonel let out a long, heavy sigh, closing his eyes as if to block out the memory. When he spoke, his voice was sharp with frustration. “We were completely outplayed by that scheming Austin p>
Aanya’s eyes widened in alarm. “Outplayed? What do you mean? What happened p>
Leonel’s jaw clenched as his anger resurfaced. “His injuries from the car accident weren’t real—or at least not as severe as he made them seem. He faked his condition to lull me into a false sense of security. Then, out of nowhere, he waltzed into the shareholders’ meeting, perfectly healthy, and turned it into a spectacle at my expense.” His fury boiled over as he recounted the humiliation. Unable to contain it, he grabbed the nearest glass and hurled it against the wall. It shattered on impact, the shards scattering like the remnants of his crushed ambitions.
Damn! He should have known this whole time—that snake was testing him, waiting for him to overstep!
And he walked right into Austin’s trap like a fool.
Aanya placed a hand gently on his arm, her voice soothing but firm. “Leonel, don’t let your rage cloud your mind. Austin is clever, but he’s not untouchable.
Think about it—he’s only survived by luck. Even now, he’s just one misstep away from falling. Remember, his father wasn’t so fortunate when we made our first move.” A cold fire burned in Leonel’s eyes, ignited by years of resentment.
Memories of being pushed to the margins of the family, dismissed for not being Aitana’s biological son, surged within Leonel.
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But what about the biological one? He was just a short-lived guy.
“Don’t let your anger drive you into rash decisions, darling. That’s exactly what Austin wants—to catch you off guard. We need to be smarter, more patient. Let him make the mistakes, not us.” Aanya, ever the voice of reason, leaned in, her tone calm but firm.
He suddenly remembered why he often consulted her on important matters—she always knew what to do.
Leonel’s lips pressed into a thin line before he exhaled heavily, nodding.
“You’re right. I was too eager this time. I won’t make that mistake again.” He paused, shifting his focus. “By the way, has Reuben returned yet? The company’s anniversary celebration is close, and he needs to be there.” Reuben’s presence was crucial for such an important event; it was Leonel’s opportunity to formally introduce his son to the influential figures who mattered.
Reuben was destined to join the Barton Group, and this event presented the perfect opportunity to begin forging meaningful connections.
Leonel had meticulously planned every step to secure his son’s future within the company.
Aanya’s confidence was palpable as she smiled. “Don’t worry. Reuben’s already booked his flight. He’ll be here in plenty of time p>
“Good.” Leonel’s tone softened, a faint glimmer of hope breaking through the storm. “This is an important moment for him. I’ve spent years laying the groundwork for his future. He needs to make a strong impression p>
“He will,” Aanya replied with conviction, her pride in their son unmistakable. “Reuben’s exceptional. All his grades are straight A’s—our boy’s been nothing short of remarkable p>
“That’s what I like to hear,” Leonel said, his shoulders relaxing for the first time that evening.
Reuben was his legacy. All of Leonel’s ambitions, all of his dreams, rested squarely on his son’s shoulders.
Callum entered the house, an elegant invitation card in hand, his face beaming with excitement.
“Everyone’s here, perfect. I’ve got an announcement. This weekend is the Barton Group’s anniversary celebration, and I’ve received an invitation. I plan to take all of you with me. What do you think?” he asked, looking around the room.
Callum always made it a point to include his family in events unless it was explicitly a solo affair.
He believed they’d enjoy the outings and hated the thought of them being bored at home.
This time was no different, especially since he’d heard how seriously the Barton Group was treating this milestone celebration.
He was particularly eager for the chance to meet Austin. A collaboration with the Barton Group could open doors for him and the Harris family’s business, and this event seemed like the perfect opportunity to network.
As soon as Callum finished speaking, Bella’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Dad, that’s amazing! I’ve always wanted to attend an event like this p>
Callum smiled, satisfied with her enthusiasm. “Good. It’s settled, then. Everyone should start preparing. I want us to make a strong impression p>