Chapter 186: Only Interests

After tidying her office, Bella removed her white coat and went downstairs. She saw Simon's car but didn't enter it. Instead, she went to the garage and drove her own car.

Dominic's car, far more luxurious than Simon's, was a deliberate display. She wanted to show him that she wasn't easily won over, nor a tool for his manipulation.

Simon looked awkward upon seeing her car. He remarked, "You can drive your car, too. Looks like Simon treats you well."

She ignored him, offering only a dismissive glance before driving off.

She chose a nearby high-end restaurant serving Yalnian cuisine. Once seated, she ordered the most expensive wine and dishes.

Simon didn't object; this was insignificant compared to the potential benefits she represented.

Before the food arrived, Bella stated, "I don't like beating around the bush. I know why you're seeking me out. What benefits can you offer?"

Simon was taken aback, momentarily speechless.

She smirked coldly. "Don't tell me you intend to use me as a pawn without offering anything in return. And don't mention family. My mother was merely a fling to you, and I'm your illegitimate daughter. Let's stick to discussing benefits."

He finally understood. "I'd like to discuss family, but I'll respect your wishes. If you come with me, change your name, and join the Kennedy family, I'll fulfill all your wishes."

Bella felt nauseous at the suggestion of changing her name, but she remained composed. "I can really name my terms?"

Simon nodded. "Yes. As long as you come with me, anything is negotiable. Dominic is irrelevant; he's an outsider."

His mention of Dominic irritated her. "The Miller family raised me for twenty years, and that's your attitude? You should thank Dominic."

He looked uncomfortable, visibly wiping sweat from his brow. This was unlike her previous behavior. "You're right. Once you come home with me, I'll formally thank him."

After a moment of silence, Bella stated her condition: "I'll go with you and help maintain your shares, but you must also give me a portion. It's not excessive, simply fulfilling responsibilities you've neglected for years. One million dollars shouldn't be a problem for you, right?"

She knew asking for too much would yield nothing. This amount seemed reasonable and acceptable to Simon. The money itself wasn't important; she intended to repay her debt to the Millers, buy back her childhood home, and renovate her mother's grave. She simply wanted a quiet life in that small cottage, away from the world's troubles.

Simon readily agreed. "Deal. I can give you the money upfront; I believe you'll keep your word."

Bella scoffed at his eagerness. "Don't get ahead of yourself. Dominic might not let me go. Your irresponsibility caused this. I owe him a debt beyond monetary value. You'll need to convince him to release me."

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