?<strong>Chapter 242:</strong>
With his eyes widening in surprise, Brook blurted out, “Why’re you back? Weren’t you studying abroad?”
“I’ve graduated. I just thought I shoulde home early and contribute to thepany,” Debora sighed, frustration evident on her face. “But as soon as I got back, I heard about your slip-up at work. Did Ie back just to clean up after you? You’re my big brother, can’t you set a better example?”
With just a few words, Debora had brought Brook crashing down. Brook was so nervous he didn’t even dare to look at Enzo. What if his grandpa was disappointed in him? Would he even have a leg to stand on when it came to taking over the Owen Group?
Jayden didn’t say anything. He had known Debora woulde back ahead of time. Ambitious as she was, she didn’t hide her hunger for power at all. Given the chance, she’d cut down her enemies without a second thought. And now her biggest adversary was Brook, and there was no way she’d let this opportunity slip through her fingers.
Refusing to be outdone, Brook gritted his teeth and said, “The chairman of the Bayzee Group is a mystery. I can’t figure him out, but the loss is on me. I’ll do everything I can to make up for it.”
Debora’s smile faded. “It better be on you.”
Then she turned to Jayden. Perhaps it was because she hadn’t seen Jayden in so long that she looked at him more closely. She nced at his legs and said, “Jayden, when I was studying abroad, I consulted some doctors. They said there might be a chance for you to stand again, but they need to examine you to be sure.” Then tentatively she added, “What do you think? If you’re up for it, I can arrange everything.”
Jayden patted his leg and sighed. “Truth be told, I’ve seen my fair share of foreign doctors. They’ve all sung the same tune. I’m stuck in this wheelchair for good. But I appreciate your concern.”
Debora nodded, holding her tongue. She approached Enzo, her eyes alight with purpose. “Grandpa, I’m back. I need a role in thepany to learn the ropes and gain experience.”
Brook’s nerves were on edge again. He knew Debora had her sights set on his spot.
“Your brother’s made a hash of things. Until he proves otherwise, you’ll step into his shoes,” Enzo dered with a grin.
Debora’s eyes sparkled. Enzo’s decision was exactly what she wanted to hear. “Thank you, Grandpa. I’ll make the Owen Group soar to new heights,” she vowed. A smug smirk yed on her lips.
But Brook’s expression was anything but joyful.
Before Debora’s return, he’d been coasting. He had time to infiltrate thepany with his allies and secure loyalty. But now, he was probably facing the greatest crisis of his career.
Enzo saw their reactions in as day. He yed dumb, engaging Jayden in small talk. “I hear it’s Elyse’s birthday party today.”
At the mention of this, both Debora and Brook turned to Jayden.
Jayden nodded. “That’s right. It’s Elyse’s first birthday celebration with me. I have to make it one for the books.”
Enzo nodded sagely. “Absolutely. I’ve got a little something for her. My assistant will drop it offter. I won’t make it to the party. These old bones of mine are creaking.” He thumped his thigh for emphasis.
“Thanks, Grandpa,” Jayden replied.
“Now you can leave and get back to the grind,” Enzo dismissed them with a wave of his hand.
Jayden left first. Debora had hoped to strut her stuff in front of Enzo, but now she had to bide her time. With a sour expression, Brook followed suit.
Once out of the office, Debora hastened to Jayden’s side. She’d heard about Elyse from her folks but had yet to meet her.
“Is it your wife’s birthday today?” she inquired eagerly.
Jayden nodded. “I didn’t expect you back so soon, so I didn’t send an invite your way.”
“I can’t make it today, but I’ll prepare a little gift for her. I’ll drop byter to see your missus,” Debora replied.
Jayden remained silent, looking at Brook. “And you, Brook? Youing?”
Brook was stewing over his demotion. He was tired of pretending now that Enzo was not there. Through gritted teeth, he said, “I’ll be there. And I’ll bring a friend with me.”
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