Chapter 37

Robert sensed hostility but couldn't identify its source. Seeing Robert's silence, Marlondo Hoffman, a middle-aged man, snorted coldly. "Let's go. Mr. Hoffman wants to see you."

Learning he would meet Stephen, Robert nodded. He'd recently researched Stephen's background, knowing him to be a legendary figure who'd built the Hoffman family fortune decades ago. Robert admired Stephen's decisive leadership in his younger years, feeling a surge of passion and eagerness to learn from the respected elder.

He followed Marlondo to Stephen's study, where two young men stood guard. Their hostile expressions, as if Robert were their enemy, surprised him. He recognized them as Hoffman descendants. He couldn't understand the family's animosity.

"Go inside," Marlondo said gruffly.

Robert took a deep breath, knocked gently, and entered at Stephen's invitation. He closed the door behind him. Immediately, the two young men outside began complaining to Marlondo:

"Uncle Marlondo, why did Grandpa meet an outsider?" "Does Grandpa really want a non-family member as his successor?" "No way! Uncle Marlondo, you must persuade Grandpa. He's old and confused. We can't allow an outsider!"

Marlondo shouted, "Enough! Don't judge him! Do you want a beating?"

The young men, realizing their mistake, hung their heads, though reluctantly. Marlondo glared at the closed door and snorted, "Don't worry. The Hoffman family's property is ours. A loser who relies on a woman for his position has no right to interfere!"

The young men brightened.

Inside, Stephen sat at his desk, examining calligraphy.

Robert entered and said, "Mr. Hoffman, you summoned me?"

Without looking up, Stephen said, "What do you think of this calligraphy?"

Robert approached, frowned slightly, and shook his head. "I don't understand calligraphy. I can't tell."

Stephen froze, then laughed. "Ha! Excellent! You're frank! Robert, you're good. Tell me, what do you want me to help you with?"

Robert was confused. "Help? Mr. Hoffman, you're mistaken. I don't need your help."

Stephen put away the calligraphy and sat back. "Young man, I'm old. I've seen much more than you. You can't hide your intentions. Tell me: what do you want? An opportunity? A role in the Hoffman family?"

Robert shook his head. "Mr. Hoffman, I'm not interested in what you're suggesting."

Stephen studied Robert. "Robert, right? Naomi's boyfriend. I've traveled the world and seen many people. I know what you young people think. Sometimes directness is best. What do you think?"

Chapter 38