Chapter 866

If Damian possessed that many shares, he wouldn't need to contend with Arianna for power. Even if Joseph gave him everything, it wouldn't exceed 10% of the company's shares.

"Just because you don't have it now doesn't mean you won't in the future," Nathaniel declared confidently. "To ensure you uphold your promise, sign this now, so we can all be at ease."

Damian raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Are you sure?" If he controlled 55% of Tanner Corporation's shares, he would dictate its direction. He wouldn't fear anyone, nor would his position matter. He'd only ever wanted advancement within the company, to replace Arianna as a key figure supporting Tanner Corporation. He'd never dreamed of owning this many shares.

It felt surreal. Was it possible? Nathaniel didn't seem to be joking, yet Damian hesitated, pen in hand. Acquiring 55% of the shares meant the company would belong to Nathaniel the moment Damian signed. Would he relinquish everything after all his efforts?

Damian had underestimated Nathaniel's ambition. He'd assumed Nathaniel desired only the general manager's position, or perhaps the managing director's. He never anticipated Nathaniel's desire for the entire Tanner Corporation.

Nathaniel smiled, observing Damian's expression. "Unwilling to surrender them?" he asked. "Understandable. It's a considerable amount. You can still refuse and leave freely. However, you'll likely spend the rest of your life in prison. Your charges aren't severe, but your sister's lawyers will ensure a lengthy sentence. Prepare yourself. Ultimately, it matters little, since they won't be yours anyway."

Nathaniel's words felt like daggers. He spoke the truth. Damian had lost everything, even though relinquishing power and wealth pained him. Still, he’d never truly possessed them, leaving a strange sense of detachment.

It was a shame, but these things weren't truly his. Signing the contract meant freedom and ease of movement, and a chance to bring Arianna down.

After weighing the options, Damian tightened his grip on the pen and signed the contract, affixing his seal.

Nathaniel examined the contract meticulously before placing it in his briefcase. "Mr. Damian, you're free to go," he said, smiling. "These past few days must have been difficult. Rest well, and remember to surrender to the police."

A lingering doubt remained. "You will help me, right?" Damian asked hesitantly.

Nathaniel smirked. "Even if you distrust me, trust the contract. If I fail to assist you, this will all be for naught." He tapped his briefcase.

Damian considered this. He didn't know what Nathaniel had planned, but he was willing to believe Nathaniel wouldn't go to all this trouble just to deceive him.