Chapter 270: Self-Punishment

To demonstrate remorse for his daughter's actions, Ronald planned to drink three glasses of wine as self-punishment. He hoped this would secure forgiveness from Nathael without any overt pressure, salvaging some of the Cameron family's dwindling dignity. Their once-distinguished reputation had crumbled under a series of setbacks.

Lifting his glass, Ronald drained it swiftly. Despite his tolerance, the rapid consumption and his age caused him to cough violently, his face reddening with embarrassment. He searched Nathael's stern expression for any sign of softening and signaled Olivia to contact Maggie again.

Nathael remained impassive, his dark eyes inscrutable as Ronald pleaded for Sierra. For the first time, Ronald truly felt the terrifying weight of the man's presence—not just the Harris family aura, but the inherent power of those in high positions.

Ignoring his discomfort, Ronald downed a second glass. Nathael remained unimpressed, observing him as if watching a farce. Even the most outrageous behavior seemed to fail to amuse him.

Jimmy, holding a woman, joked, "Mr. Cameron, you're quite the drinker! Why not join us for a few more?"

Heart racing, Ronald managed a polite smile. "I'd rather not impose further after dampening the evening's spirits," he replied.

While Nathael was enigmatic and reserved, Jimmy was his opposite: unpredictable, impulsive, and indifferent to social graces. Turning to another guest, Jimmy suggested, "How about Ms. Cameron joins us for a drink? Ericko, what do you think?"

Ronald's forced smile faltered. Ericko. Ericko Adams.

Ericko, from the rival Adams family, a family the Camerons had unsuccessfully tried to surpass for years. While the Adams family thrived, the Camerons steadily declined. Ronald had previously ignored Ericko, believing he could address any issues later. However, Jimmy's comment made avoidance impossible.

Ericko possessed a gentle demeanor; even in the dim lighting, he exuded a serene yet cool and noble aura, tinged with a subtle chilliness.

Given their families' history, Ronald expected a refusal. Instead, Ericko turned the tables, looking directly at Ronald and asking, "What do you think, Mr. Cameron?"

Caught off guard, Ronald quickly composed himself. He realized Ericko was subtly embarrassing him by suggesting an inappropriate connection between Sierra and the other women.

"Sierra isn't feeling well; I should apologize on her behalf," Ronald managed, his voice strained as he suppressed his anger and finished a third glass of wine.

His cheeks flushed, his stomach churned, but the weight on his heart was heavier still. He couldn't afford to offend anyone. If the Camerons were in the right, he might have resisted, but they were not.

His coughing fit returned, drawing concerned glances. Olivia looked at Sierra, who appeared composed, and moved to support Ronald. "Are you okay?" she asked.

Ronald shook his head and looked at Sierra, who seemed dazed. "Sierra, apologize to Mr. Harris." Sierra recoiled. "No! I won't!"

Frowning, Olivia helped her stand. "You should apologize. If he takes this further, we all suffer." Reluctantly, Sierra calmed and nervously approached Nathael. "I'm I'm sorry, Mr. Harris. I realize my mistakes."

Sierra was shocked and fearful, but Nathael's presence momentarily dazed her. So, he's the famed Nathael Harris. How fortunate Maggie is.

Nathael briefly glanced at her before turning to Ronald. "Mr. Cameron, you don't seem interested in seeking justice for Maggie. No wonder there are rumors that the Camerons don't care much about her."

(Send Gifts 70/) (This appears to be a separate note and not part of the narrative.)