Chapter 242:

Brook's eyes widened in surprise. "Why are you back? Weren't you studying abroad?" he blurted out.

Debora sighed, frustration etched on her face. "I've graduated. I thought I should come home early and contribute to the company," she explained. "But as soon as I returned, I heard about your mistake at work. Did I come back just to clean up after you? You're my older brother; can't you set a better example?"

Debora's words hit Brook hard. So nervous, he didn't dare look at Enzo. He worried about his grandfather's disappointment and the impact on his chances of inheriting Owen Group.

Jayden remained silent. He'd known Debora would return early. Ambitious and unapologetically power-hungry, she wouldn't hesitate to eliminate her rivals. Brook was now her biggest obstacle, and she wouldn't miss this opportunity.

Refusing to be defeated, Brook gritted his teeth. "The Bayzee Group chairman is an enigma. I couldn't figure him out, but the loss is my responsibility. I'll do everything to make amends."

Debora's smile vanished. "You better," she said sharply.

Turning to Jayden, she seemed to notice him more closely, perhaps due to their separation. She glanced at his legs. "Jayden, while I was studying abroad, I consulted doctors. They suggested a possibility of you walking again, but they need to examine you." Hesitantly, she added, "What do you think? If you're interested, I can arrange everything."

Jayden patted his leg and sighed. "Honestly, I've seen many foreign doctors. They all said the same thing. I'm confined to this wheelchair permanently. But I appreciate your concern."

Debora nodded, remaining silent. Approaching Enzo, her eyes bright with purpose, she said, "Grandpa, I'm back. I need a role in the company to learn and gain experience."

Brook's anxiety spiked. He knew Debora was aiming for his position.

Enzo grinned. "Your brother has made a mess of things. Until he proves otherwise, you'll take over his responsibilities," he declared.

Debora's eyes gleamed. This was exactly what she wanted. "Thank you, Grandpa. I'll take the Owen Group to new heights," she vowed, a smug smirk playing on her lips.

Brook's expression was far from joyful. Before Debora's return, he'd been consolidating his position within the company, securing allies. Now, he faced the biggest crisis of his career.

Enzo saw their reactions clearly. Feigning ignorance, he engaged Jayden in casual conversation. "I hear it's Elyse's birthday party today."

At this, both Debora and Brook turned to Jayden.

Jayden nodded. "That's right. It's Elyse's first birthday with me. I want to make it special."

Enzo nodded thoughtfully. "Absolutely. I have a small gift for her. My assistant will deliver it later. I won't be able to make the party. These old bones are creaking." He thumped his thigh for emphasis.

"Thanks, Grandpa," Jayden replied.

"Now, you can go," Enzo dismissed them with a wave.

Jayden left first. Debora, hoping to impress Enzo further, had to wait. Brook, with a sour expression, followed.

Outside, Debora hurried to Jayden's side. She'd heard about Elyse from her family but hadn't met her yet.

"Is it your wife's birthday today?" she asked eagerly.

Jayden nodded. "I didn't expect you back so soon, so I didn't invite you."

"I can't make it today, but I'll get her a small gift. I'll visit your wife later," Debora replied.

Jayden looked at Brook. "And you, Brook? Are you coming?"

Brook, seething over his demotion, dropped the pretense of Enzo's presence. Through gritted teeth, he said, "I'll be there. And I'll bring a friend."

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