Chapter 738

Hamilton had just shown a rare concession.

His secretary was taken aback. Given Hamilton's typical control over all decisions, his willingness to compromise with Daniela was indeed a surprising shift.

This adaptability emphasized Daniela's influence.

The secretary found himself observing Daniela more intently.

Hamilton's gaze was fixed on Daniela, anticipating her reply.

In a nonchalant tone, Daniela said, "I respect Cedric's decision. If he decides to calI you his father,I won't object."

Hamilton was about to smile when Daniela continued,"Just ensure no threats come his way, and don't drag me into your schemes."

At her words, the smile on Hamilton's face quickly disappeared.

Daniela, noticing Hamilton's rigid demeanor, added casually, "I've given you fair warning before. Here itis again-if Cedric gets upset because of you, I'm more than ready to engage in a corporate battle. In fact,taking on the world's richest man could be quite the thrill."

Hamilton's eyes narrowed. "Is this a test or a challenge?"

Daniela's potential was a mystery, and the world's billionaire list hadn't been refreshed for some time.

Naturally,bystanders were thrilled at the prospect of witnessing a corporate clash between Daniela and Hamilton, curious to see who would emerge as the superior.

However, such confrontations were only a spectacle for those uninvolved. Hamilton had no interest in witnessing such a conflict unfold. Hamilton regarded Daniela with a cool expression."The McCoy family is Cedric's family too. Every action you take influJences the family's standing and directly affects Cedric's potential inheritance."

Daniela shifted her gaze to Hamilton, taking in the self-assured expression on his face. "You really believe Cedric's going to accept you just like that?"

Without missing a beat, Hamilton replied, "Everyone has a price. And if money doesn't work, then it's because they're chasing love."

There should have been some kind of bond, some natural affection between father and son.

Daniela could see clearly now-Hamilton had changed tactics, opting for a softer, more indirect approach.

Proving her right, he made his way toward the kitchen the next moment.

He didn't step inside. Instead, he remained by the doorway, accepted a small pastry box from his secretary, and set it on the nearby table. "I get that you're not ready to accept me yet. Still, blood doesn't lie. These were your mother's favorite pastries. I made them myself this morning. Try them."

He didn't rush off after that. For a moment, he lingered at the threshold.

However, Cedric continued cleaning in silence, not even glancing in his direction.

After an awkward stretch of silence, Hamilton finally muttered, "Alright then. I'll stop by another day. The food was excellent, by the way." There was an effort in his voice, clumsy and unpolished, like someone trying to speak a language they'd forgotten. "Come home for a meal sometime," he added, almost as an afterthought.

Then he turned and walked out.

His expression as he exited was anything but cheerful-and Charles noticed.

Years of serving at Hamilton's side had taught Charles how to read the man. He understood that Hamilton was prideful to a fault, and rarely allowed anyone, not even his own sons, to challenge his authority.

Yet this time, he had taken a step back. He was extending the olive branch, not just because Cedric was capable-but because he respected Daniela.

The notion of a woman poised to lead Cealmaur suggested she was far from ordinary.

With her support, the McCoy dynasty could become an unbeatable force.

Thus, it wasn't just about Hamilton courting Cedric's favor; more crucially, it was about securing Daniela's allegiance.

Charles' thoughts were heavy as he remembered the secretary's words. "Whoever has Daniela on their side, wins the McCoy fortune!"

With a newfound resolve, Charles approached Daniela, his earlier apprehension replaced by a practiced smile. "What did my father discuss with you earlier?"Daniela's voice was clear and direct. "He wants Cedric to call him Dad."

Her candid response surprised Charles. He had expected her to be more guarded.

Daniela's perceptiveness didn't miss a beat. "You're not in a position to threaten Cedric."

Charles stopped short, stung by the realization that he had just been dismissed outright.

"My father's intent on bringing Cedric back into our family.How do you feel about that?" For Charles, this was the only issue that mattered. He had orchestrated things so Cedric would be gone for good. Yet, unexpectedly, Cedric had come to Oiscoll.

The implications were daunting-a mix of pressure and evident threat.

Daniela's tone remained clear. "It's his decision,ultimately."

Charles responded in surprise, "You promised you would back me up!" Daniela gave him a skeptical look. "You think you're fit to run the McCoy empire with such little patience?"

Visibly upset, Charles bit his lip.

Daniela reassured him, "Don't worry. Cedric isn't here for McCoy Group. His reason for being in Oiscoll is me."

Charles was skeptical. "Really? We're discussing the McCoy empire here. It's hard to think Cedric would overlook the immense fortune involved."

Daniela chuckled. "Believe it or not, your family's wealth doesn't surpass mine. Please, don't delude yourself."

Bewildered, Charles questioned her, "What are you suggesting? How is your wealth relevant to Cedric?"

Daniela explained calmly, "It seems everyone forgets Cedric and I are united in marriage. His entitlement is to wvhatever I possess."

Reflecting for a moment, Daniela continued, "You know, despite the popularity of prenuptial agreements among the affluent, I chose not to sign one. So everything I own belongs to Cedric too."

This revelation left Charles completely dumbfounded.