Chapter 980

Hamilton was still hesitating, but Brad was already transferred his money to Josh.

Leaning close, Brad murmured, "Won this off Daniela,but it's right back in the pile now."

Ethan added, "I'm tapped out. That's every penny lhad."

Josh thrust an open palm at Hamilton. "Come on, quit hesitating. I have no patience for wafflers. Don't you want your grandkids to have a bright future?"

Brad, grinning, reached into Hamilton's pocket himself and passed the check across.

A satisfied smirk spread over Josh's face. "Good. You all can leave now. When it's time for your payout, I'll be in touch."

The McCoy brothers lingered only a moment before shuffling out.

With empty pockets, they soon found themselves standing before Daniela's villa.

Carol's eyes widened as she saw them. "What's this?I thought you three were moving to your own places. what's with the suitcases?"

The commotion drew Cedric to the entryway,curiosity giving way to suspicion.

He eyed their luggage, a frown creasing his brow.

One arm raised, Cedric blocked their way. "You better not be here without a decent explanation."

Life had never humbled the McCoy brothers like this before.

Knowing full well Cedric's reputation, Brad rose onto his toes, craning for a glimpse inside. "Daniela! It's me,Brad! We're here to crash at your place!"

While Daniela lounged on the sofa scanning through her reports, she already knew the three had sunk a hefty investment.

She paused, blinking at the sight of them crowding the doorway, and flasheda teasing smile. "Weren't you three headed out to strike it rich? What brings you back to my doorstep?"

A flush of embarrassment crept onto Hamilton's face.His lips tightened into a silent line.

Brad tried to lighten the mood, chuckling. "We just happened to be nearby, and hunger got the best of us.Thought we'd drop in for lunch." Ethan quickly chimed in, "That's right! Just here for lunch."

Carol shot a skeptical glance at the luggage. "You three pack suitcases every time you're hungry?Planning to turn lunch into a daily tradition here?"

Brad glanced over,hoping Daniela would step in.

Without missing a beat, Daniela turned to Cedric and said, "Let them in."

Grinning,Brad sauntered through the door and assured her, "Don't worry, Daniela. We're not here to mooch off you."

Ethan bobbed his head in agreement. "Yeah,absolutely."

Trying to sound reassuring, Brad added, "Josh promised-just one month and we'll pay everything back,interest included."

He raised a single finger, enthusiasm sparkling in his eyes. "You'll get a hefty bonus from me when it's done,I promise. How does that sound?"

Daniela sank deeper into the cushions, making herself comfortable as she watched the scene unfold.

"I'LL throw in a bonus, too," Ethan chimed, eager to sweeten the deal. A wave of doubt crept over Hamilton. No matter how he tried, something about this investment just didn't sit right.

Noticing his silence, Ethan elbowed him. "Come on,Hamilton! Don't just stand there quiet. You aren't trying to weasel out, are you?"

"Of course not," Hamilton retorted, cheeks reddening."If we actually see a profit, every cent wvill go to Daniela. This month, though, we're flat broke, so we need a place to stay." His pride stung, knowing how pitiful he must look-an old man, investment gone south,having to rely on his own daughter-in-law for a roof. "You'll get your money as soon as we have it."

As soon as he finished, all eyes turned to Daniela,silently begging for her answer.

A quick nod from Daniela settled the matter. "No problem.You've got a month. I'll just tack the rent onto your bill later."

That was all Ethan and Brad needed to hear. Instantly,their faces lit up, both showering Daniela with thanks for her understanding.

Hamilton alone kept glancing Daniela's way,the ease in her expression only deepening his suspicion that this investment was doomed to fail.