Chapter 1324:

“Debora, what makes you think you can sway me? Our shared blood? Do you truly believe we’re close enough for me to forgive and forget?”

His laughter held no warmth.

“Have you forgotten my notorious reputation?”

Debora’s face cycled through shades of fury and fear before she finally yielded.

“What must I do to secure your help—not for me, but for the Owen family?”

“I haven’t decided,” Jayden replied coolly. “Currently, I have no inclination to assist. Your success depends entirely on what you’re willing to sacrifice.”

“That’s impossible!” Debora exploded. “You’ll never help if we can’t meet your endless demands.”

Jayden spread his hands in a careless gesture. “Feel free to seek help elsewhere. I’m not your only option.”

“But you’re family!” Debora protested. “Outside help would bleed us dry!”

Understanding dawned on Elyse’s face. “Ah, now I see. The Owen family’s in trouble, but outside help would mean vultures picking at your bones. You want Jayden’s free assistance under the guise of family obligation.” Her voice dripped with contempt.

“How shameless, using family ties to manipulate Jayden into free help.”

“Is it shameless to ask family for help?” Debora shot back. “Despite everything, he’s still an Owen. He must help us!”

“Must he? I disagree.” Elyse’s voice turned sharp.

“Your opinion means nothing! You’re not family—stay out of this!” Debora’s composure cracked once more.

A smirk curved Elyse’s lips. “Family or not, Jayden only listens to me. If I oppose, he won’t help.”

Jayden’s arm snaked around Elyse’s waist, his smile unmistakable. “Precisely. If Elyse says no, that’s final.”

Debora stared at them, bewildered. “Why would you listen to her? Aren’t you divorced?”

Jayden gestured toward Elyse, his expression earnest. “I’m working to win her back.”

Debora fell silent, utterly perplexed by their relationship.

Jayden pressed his lips together, his expression firm. “I’ve made myself clear. Whether you can meet my demands is your concern, not mine.”

“I get it. There’s no need to keep repeating yourself.” She felt a deep wave of disheartenment wash over her.