Chapter 45

“The target of public criticism? Mr. Zabel, do you think I'm a three-year-old?” Connor snorted. “Who in Navarre dares to make the heir of the Zabinski family the target of public criticism?” he mused.

Kendrick ignored Connor’s expression and continued, “Mr. Labelle, you haven't heard about Robert's actions against the Holliman family, have you? He went to Mr. Hoffman’s study and angered him so severely that Mr. Hoffman had to be hospitalized. The Hoffman family won’t let Robert go easily, and no one is willing to protect him. If the Labelle family continues its close relationship with Robert, you will face the consequences!”

Connor slammed his hand on the table. “Nonsense! Mr. Zabel, I know you're young and inexperienced, but you have no right to dictate my relationship with Robert Zabinski. Leave, Mr. Zabel.” He gestured with his teacup, signaling Kendrick to depart.

“Mr. Labelle, I was merely offering a warning. Since you’re unappreciative, forget it!” Kendrick, showing no respect, stood and left.

After Kendrick’s departure, Connor took a deep breath. “Mr. Hoffman was angry at Robert? That’s impossible! The Hoffman family is heavily indebted to the Zabinski family; without them, they wouldn't exist. They wouldn't dare to anger Robert, let alone oppose him. Could the Zabel family have convinced the Hoffmans to attack the Zabinskis? I must speak to Mr. Hoffman!”

Connor immediately contacted Stephen’s butler.

Outside Connor’s office, Kendrick seethed, “Such ingratitude! Does he think Robert is a treasure? Treating a bomb like a treasure disqualifies you from doing business in Yrinas. The Labelle family has no future here!”

He called Mr. York. “It’s me. I’ll buy all Everlasting Trade’s shares with the Labelle Group. You’ll be handsomely rewarded. Worried about the Zabinski Group finding out? So what? The Zabel Group is here to compete with them! If they investigate you, come to my company; the benefits are as good as with the Zabinski Group!” He hung up with a sneer.

Turning, he noticed Marilyn’s subdued expression. “Marilyn, what’s wrong?”

“N–Nothing…” she stammered, shaking her head.

Kendrick’s face darkened. “You’re thinking about Robert, aren’t you? I don't understand your fascination with that loser who relies on women for success. Don’t forget your parents initiated contact with me. I’m not obsessed with you!” His anger flared.

Marilyn remained calm. “Kendrick, I hope you’ll refuse my parents directly.” She strode away, a spark in her eyes.

“Mom and Dad! If my parents supported me like Naomi’s father did, Robert and I would be happy. Even with nothing, we could work together and build a cozy home!” Marilyn thought bitterly.