“If you agree, I’ll have the first design ready tonight,” she added, studying him closely.

It was her best offer, the only leverage she had left to sway him. Beyond this, she felt out of options. Her eyes shone with determination. If Neil turned her down again, she had another plan ready to go. s ? ?s Find[?]ovel.net

Neil looked down at her, his expression full of contempt, a smug smile spreading across his face. He clapped mockingly, the sound sharp and cutting. “I have to hand it to you; you’re great at changing the subject. You’re so focused on holding on to your precious relationships that you think some design sketches will sway me.”

What was she thinking? Sure, he cared about the jewelry business, but the profits from oil were enormous and almost endless. Why would he cast that aside? It was truly absurd.

Katelyn’s gaze hardened as she spoke, her voice calm and firm. “The only thing you have over me is my wish to see Grandma. Beyond that, you have no power to influence my choices. If you think my offer isn’t enough, maybe you should reflect on what you’ve actually done for me.”

In that moment, she realized that negotiating with Neil had been a grave mistake. Neil was a shrewd businessman, always skilled at turning any situation to his advantage. He thrived on finding ways to maximize his gains, constantly looking for an edge. Katelyn realized that unless she offered him what he wanted, he would never budge.

As she considered her remaining options, a new plan began to take shape in her mind.

Neil’s gaze remained fixed on her, the silence between them heavy with tension. Katelyn felt irritation rising; this negotiation didn’t seem to be going anywhere.

“Since neither of us can give the other what we want, let’s end this here.”

“I won’t try to see Grandma through the Wheelers again.”

? ? ν﹒

With that, she turned to walk away. But Neil’s next words stopped her dead in her tracks.

She spun around, stunned.

Neil’s dark gaze was fixed on Katelyn as he announced, “I’ve secured the services of the renowned healer, Hades.”

Katelyn’s fists clenched instinctively, her surprise barely concealed. How could this be? She had never agreed to engage with the Wheeler family, nor had Neil contacted her directly before this moment.

Sitting back in his wheelchair, Neil continued, “With Hades’ involvement, Grandma’s health should improve significantly in no time. But imagine how she will feel if you’re absent during her treatment.”

A flicker of despair crossed Katelyn’s features as she faced him with a cold stare. “Are you threatening me?” she challenged.

.

.

.