Chapter 83
Chapter 83:
Phillip spoke with confidence. He never feared Ashton; his real concern was about the Campbell family and Aaron, the formidable lawyer.
Now, seeing Ashton by himself, Phillip regarded him as trivial.
Within the James family, Phillip was always considered the exemplar. Upon hearing Phillip’s statements, they naturally believed him.
The faces of Emalee’s parents shifted, filled with regret for their precipitate decision that had allowed Ashton to claim so much of their family assets.
Although Emalee’s lineage did not lay claim to the James clan’s extensive fortune, as the CEO of the family enterprise, she had amassed a few million over the years. Ashton, having contributed nothing, walked away with over a million, leaving the James family feeling aggrieved.
As Ashton’s former mother-in-law, Miriam had consistently underestimated him, viewing him as merely a handsome face lacking any real talent. Her resentment deepened when she saw him secure such a substantial portion of the wealth.
Fueled by her anger, she stepped forward decisively, aiming to snatch the compensation agreement from Ashton’s hands.
Ashton deftly sidestepped her and questioned coldly, “What do you mean? I’ve already signed the settlement, and your son has been released. Are you suggesting reneging on our agreement p>
Miriam snorted and retorted, “Didn’t you listen to Phillip? He could have freed Tristan on his own if we hadn’t rushed p>
Matthew added his voice. “Exactly! Phillip had a solution. We shouldn’t have suffered such a substantial loss for your gain. Hand over the agreement and leave, or don’t fault us for our harshness p>
Emalee seemed poised to speak but restrained herself. From her expression, Ashton discerned her dissatisfaction with the deal.
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This entire family was cut from the same cloth, and Ashton couldn’t suppress a derisive laugh.
Indeed, from the outset, Ashton harbored no illusions about the James family.
He had foreseen this scenario and had made preparations prior to his arrival.
With a scornful laugh, Ashton declared, “I never intended to let Tristan go scot-free. You implored me, so I relented. Moreover, you set the terms. Now you wish to withdraw? It won’t be that simple p>
Hearing this, Matthew’s face turned a deep shade of red as he lunged forward, attempting to grab Ashton’s collar. Ashton sidestepped smoothly, leaving Matthew standing awkwardly.
Despite the setback, Matthew persisted and threatened, “We implored you? You’re exploiting us! If you don’t surrender the agreement, you’ll feel the full fury of the James family p>
Ashton maintained a calm smile and replied, “No need to rush. My friend is on his way. We can discuss this when he arrives p>
Matthew and the others scoffed at Ashton’s statement.
Mocking, Matthew said, “Look at you. What kind of friend could you possibly have? What good will they do? Are you planning to take us on? Phillip, Tristan, and I are all here. Do you really think we’re afraid of you p>
Miriam joined in. “Exactly! We have Phillip, a top lawyer, with us. Try anything foolish, and you’ll lose everything and land in jail p>
Hearing this, Phillip’s confidence surged even more.
He raised his eyebrows and called out, “Ashton, I’d advise you to hand over that compensation agreement. Don’t lay claim to what isn’t yours, or you’ll face consequences beyond your control p>