Chapter 106

If Derek spilled the beans, Chase and Nicole would be ruined. By the time Chase gathered all the photos, his hands still trembled. He was a mass of nerves, feeling like a burglar as he slipped into the car.

"Mark…" he muttered.

The driver replied, "Mr. Reyes, remember? Mark was injured in the Shadowmoor incident and only recently returned home. He's still recovering."

Chase rubbed his temples, feeling overwhelmed. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Take me back to the Reyes estate." Fear etched his face. If Ryan discovered his deception, his inheritance would vanish.

Upon returning to the mansion, Ryan sat in the drawing-room, sipping tea. Affecting nonchalance, Chase asked, "Grandfather, may I join you for a game or two?"

He closely observed Ryan's face, searching for any indication of his secret's discovery. Ryan slammed his teacup onto the table, causing Chase to flinch.

"Look at you, utterly pathetic. One look from me, and you're quaking. You're no match for Derek."

Ryan's disappointment, rather than accusation, eased Chase's tension.

"Grandfather, unlike Derek, who acts superior, I respect you."

Ryan snorted, unimpressed. "You've been timid since childhood. Indecisive. You lack Amanda's business acumen and vision. You two were supposed to complement each other. I've noticed your wandering thoughts these past few years."

Ryan's words were more a reprimand than an accusation, and Chase was relieved he remained unaware of the full truth.

"Grandfather, truly, I've always considered Nicole a sister. Amanda is the one I love."

"Of course, I know. You've been with Amanda for years; some weariness is natural, but that's no excuse for infidelity. Besides, she's your wife. You've repeatedly embarrassed her with your 'sister,' and broken her heart. You're hardly husband of the year."

Chase lowered his head. "I know I've failed, Grandfather."

"Fortunately, you haven't created a complete disaster yet. Derek surpasses you in scheming and cunning, but his health is his weakness. I always believed you had potential."

Indeed, in Ryan's eyes, a legitimate grandson held more value than an illegitimate son.

Chase's eyes brightened. "Grandfather, do you truly believe in me?"

"I wonder if I was too harsh on you, making you so irresolute. You need someone like Amanda. When you marry, choose wisely. She's the perfect partner. Have you reconciled with her?"

Chase offered a strained smile. "Grandfather, I fear she's genuinely angry this time."

"You deserve it! Let me tell you, if Amanda leaves you and you lose to Derek again, I'll give the Reyes family business to him."

Chase stumbled back to his room, dazed. He lay sleepless, resorting to sleeping pills. It had been a long time since he’d slept properly.

The pills granted him over ten hours of sleep. He showered and looked refreshed; I expected him to go straight to the office. Surprisingly, he visited Derek.

"Derek."

Derek appeared grimmer than the previous day. The swirling snow outside the large window behind him enhanced his icy demeanor.