Chapter 464
Stellan, despite his entertainment industry background, quickly grasped the complexities of the business world, demonstrating a clear understanding of the Drake family's situation. The Drake family's nurturing of their younger generation was readily apparent.
"As long as the profit is substantial and the temptation great, those behind the scenes will lose control—and might even be the ones who suffer," Percival said succinctly.
Stellan offered a calm smile, his eyes revealing admiration, not envy. He respected Percival's mastery of business complexities and his effortless execution of an astute plan. Stellan's previous concerns now seemed trivial.
"Thank you, Mr. Stewart," Stellan said sincerely. "The Drake family will certainly meet your expectations."
The entire situation had left him and his parents uneasy, but a five-minute conversation with Percival seemingly resolved everything.
He rose to leave, then paused, a thought striking him. He clenched his fist, preparing to speak.
"Mr. Stewart, regardless of your relationship with Freya, I noticed something peculiar," Stellan began hesitantly but firmly. "At Odalys's birthday, she took us directly to the Stewart villa. We were there only ten minutes, but she had free access to the Stewart family home. We never inquired about your relationship, but"
Stellan paused, uncomfortable. "From my understanding, you're the Stewart family's only child—no other heirs, correct?"
He knew directly questioning Percival was rude and could endanger the Drake family, but lingering questions weighed on his mind. Francis and Selah also harbored concerns, but dared not ask. Freya didn't seem like a mistress, yet her free access to the Stewart home was unusual.
"Do you think there's something ambiguous between Freya and me? Do you think she's my lover, and that's why she has free access?" Percival's eyes darkened slightly, surprised by the misunderstanding.
"I've known Odalys for a while; I see her as a sister, and my parents wish to adopt her as their goddaughter. It might be intrusive, but if you and Odalys are in a legal relationship, you should maintain distance from other women, even Freya," Stellan stated firmly.
He knew this was inappropriate during a business discussion, but he couldn't hold back. He wouldn't waste this rare opportunity, even if it meant offending Percival.
"Aren't you afraid of offending me? Or that my displeasure could jeopardize the Drake family?" Percival asked thoughtfully, his casual dominance creating an unsettling atmosphere.
"I am worried, but I want to defend Odalys and seek justice for her," Stellan said quietly. He wasn't afraid of offending people, but he wouldn't allow Odalys to suffer.
Freya, despite lacking apparent backing, was untouchable in the entertainment industry; even producer Kenny avoided shady dealings with her. Her success stemmed from her talent, not connections.
"Freya is the daughter of my late father's comrade. Her parents died years ago, and my father adopted her. She is my adopted sister," Percival explained, a rare personal disclosure. He did this for Odalys.
"Wait, what?" Stellan exclaimed, stunned. He'd suspected Freya was Percival's lover or beneficiary, not his adopted sister. Embarrassment flushed his face. He berated himself for his unfounded suspicions.
"My relationship with Freya is solely that of siblings. There's no ambiguity, and she's never used my connections. Odalys knows this," Percival added.
Stellan's indignation vanished, replaced by awkwardness.
"But you were brave enough to question me, regardless of your status, to defend Odalys. You're a good man," Percival said slowly, standing and meeting Stellan's gaze. He chuckled softly, patting Stellan's shoulder. "I'm not a villain, and I'm not angry. If the Stewarts were as unreasonable as you think, we wouldn't maintain our position. But I appreciate your defense of Odalys."
Stellan remained stunned until Percival left.
"So, Freya's his adopted sister, not his lover? And Freya and Odalys aren't rivals? Odalys is Freya's?" Stellan thought anxiously. He wished he could slap himself for his naiveté. Percival's calm reaction was remarkable; others in power might have reacted differently.
"I need to tell my parents," Stellan said, agitated. Dangelo and Sienna had been worried, treating Odalys like a daughter. They feared injustice, but it was all a misunderstanding.
After messaging his parents, Stellan returned to the set.