Chapter 94

In the Palmer family manor, Wallace shouted in shock and anger. "What? One hundred million dollars? Is he crazy?" He was furious and stupefied after Benjamin revealed Gilmore's asking price for 50% of Evermore Diner: $100 million. This sum, Wallace knew, was enough to buy a large company.

Benjamin added angrily, "He said he'd keep the restaurant to bond with Claire if he couldn't sell it. Once married, he'd gain access to the entire Carter family fortune. He won't bargain."

Wallace's eyes flashed. "As I expected, he's after the Carter family's money."

He turned to Emerson, seated on the sofa. "Dad, what do you think?"

Emerson's eyes flickered. "I think we should buy Evermore Diner for $100 million."

Wallace and Benjamin were shocked. They hadn't expected Emerson's agreement.

Wallace protested, "But Dad, everyone in Oakhaven will laugh! Buying half of a small restaurant for $100 million is ludicrous!"

Emerson remained calm. "It seems foolish, but once Denton and Claire see Gilmore's greed, they'll reject him as a son-in-law. They'll choose Benjamin instead when they learn we spent $100 million to bond with Claire. We'll gain their trust and respect." A cold, cruel look crossed his face. "Perhaps Gilmore won't even get to spend our money."

Wallace caught on. "You mean kill him after paying him, and get our money back?"

"Without the Carter family's protection, killing him would be easy," Emerson said flatly.

Wallace and Benjamin were overjoyed. It made perfect sense. Without the Carters, Gilmore would be a vulnerable target, despite his wealth.

Benjamin immediately stood and bowed. "I admire your wisdom and courage, Grandpa!"

Emerson waved him off. "Enough. Take down the Carter family and Claire. Don't fail like last time. And be wary of Gilmore."

Benjamin's eyes sharpened. "I won't let you down, Grandpa! I'll make Gilmore suffer!"

Emerson nodded. The three continued to plot Gilmore's downfall in the manor's living room.

Meanwhile, in Newhaven Commercial Plaza, Gilmore swirled red wine in Claire's office. His "God's Eye" had revealed the Palmer family's plan: buy Evermore Diner for $100 million, eliminate him as a potential son-in-law, and then reclaim their money. A smirk touched his lips. He acknowledged their cunning and ruthlessness, but his "God's Eye" would help him evade their trap.

Claire, seated at her desk, was shocked to learn of Benjamin's offer.

Gilmore nodded. "Yes, he wants to buy my shares, and I've given him a price."

Claire was furious. "Why offer 50% of the shares? You'd sell everything for his dirty money?" She felt betrayed; she and Gilmore had started Evermore Diner to bond, and she admired his commitment to natural food. Selling to Benjamin, whom she despised, was incomprehensible.

Gilmore calmly explained, "First, I offered 30% of Evermore Diner in Newhaven, not 50% of the entire Evermore Group. Second, it's not 'dirty money.' I asked for $100 million for 50% of this restaurant."

Claire was stunned. "$100 million for half the shares…? That's insane!" Unless the restaurant were made of gold, no one would pay that much.

She realized Gilmore was only selling his share in the Newhaven restaurant, leaving their partnership intact elsewhere. This was acceptable, but still confusing. "Are they really willing to pay $100 million?"

Gilmore then revealed Benjamin's plan: to use the restaurant to secure Claire's hand and the Carter fortune.

Gilmore concluded, "They'll lose money, but they're clever."

Claire asked, surprised, "Did Benjamin tell you all this?"

Gilmore shook his head. "No, I guessed, but I was close."

Claire knew Gilmore was right; the Palmers only wanted the Carter family's wealth.

"I won't let them win!" Claire declared sharply.

Gilmore nodded. "Of course not. We'll make them pay."

Claire looked at him questioningly.

Gilmore leaned in and whispered a plan. Claire's face lit up. "Good plan!"

Gilmore raised his wine glass. "Let's await the $100 million for our next branch! Cheers!"

Claire raised her glass, and they clinked. "Cheers!"