Chapter 551:

Jayden set his empty glass on the table, his eyes glinting with derision. He didn't believe Brook's words. "So, why did you summon us here today? What's your game?" he asked.

Brook arched an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Can't I simply invite you to dinner?"

Jayden sneered. "Do you really expect me to believe that?"

Brook shrugged, maintaining his nonchalant air. "I know you don't trust me, and I'm not asking you to forget the past. But tonight, I only wanted to share a meal."

Elyse, sensing the rising tension, interjected to ease the situation, effectively stopping the confrontation. Despite her efforts, Jayden barely touched his food before leaving with Elyse.

Shortly afterward, Corrie burst in, her face twisted with malice. "Didn't you drug Elyse's drink? Have you forgotten your grandfather's orders? Do I need to spell it out for you?" she demanded sharply.

Brook, unruffled by her accusation, continued eating calmly. "Who's the fool here, you or me? Drugging Elyse's drink to cause a miscarriage is easily traceable to me. I'm not going to be your fall guy!"

Corrie took a deep breath, seething with a hatred for Jayden and a desire to see him suffer. Only she knew the torment of waiting alone in that eerie cemetery, hoping for help. She couldn't let it go; she was determined to destroy everything Jayden held dear.

Brook glanced up, noting her fury, and remarked, "Jayden watches Elyse like a hawk. Finding an opportunity won't be easy."

Corrie scoffed. "No matter how vigilant he is, there will be weaknesses. They have no idea we're targeting the unborn child. We'll find a way."

Brook continued eating, remarking casually, "I never pegged you as so obedient, following your grandfather's orders so diligently."

Corrie sneered. "Don't tell me you still have a conscience. Haven't all the Owen clan members sold theirs?"

Brook nodded. "You're right, we have no conscience. But you resemble a true Owen more than we do!"

Corrie's eyebrows arched, pride gleaming in her eyes. She didn't take his words as an insult, but as a badge of honor. Recognition by the Owen clan meant a chance to join them and enjoy their wealth and power. This thought strengthened her resolve to complete Enzo's task.

Brook remained silent. He didn't tell Corrie that he still clung to a sliver of conscience. He, too, wanted Enzo's favor, but gaining it meant causing Elyse to lose her unborn child. For the first time, Brook hesitated, despite his earlier determination. Elyse's maternal side made him waver; he felt a pang of self-doubt.

Corrie crossed her arms, looking at the silent Brook. "This opportunity was hard-earned. Complete this, and your grandfather will hold you in higher esteem. Isn't the power you crave within your grasp?"

Brook frowned, irritation flaring. "I don't need your constant reminders. Mind your own business!"

He exited the private dining room, his expression grim.

After leaving the private room, Elyse returned to the hospital with Jayden. Although Brook had invited them to dinner, Elyse found the food unappealing. She barely touched it, enduring her hunger until they reached the hospital, where she eagerly ate the food Driscoll had brought.

Jayden was also eating. After a few bites, he asked, "Did you see Morgan today?"

Elyse nodded. "We had some things to discuss. Afterward, we went our separate ways."

As she finished, Morgan entered the ward, looking distraught.

Startled by Morgan's distress, Elyse asked, "What happened?"

With red-rimmed eyes, Morgan shook her head. "It's gone! The villa is rubble!"

(The ". .noveldrama" at the end is removed as it seems extraneous.)