Chapter 857

Andrew said, “In the past, maybe not, but now it’s hard to say.”

Erica furrowed her brow. “Is it because of Juan?”

Juan’s previous actions at the party suggested that he had allied himself with Drake.

Randy grumbled, “Juan is a huge problem. Can’t we take him down together?”

“It’s not that simple,” Andrew replied. “The Nichols family has been thriving since Juan took over. Even our ancestors had to avoid their sharp edge, and Juan’s abilities are better than his predecessors.”

Erica frowned. “But why would he ally with Drake? Everyone knows about Drake’s shady business, while the Nichols family’s businesses are all legitimate. Is Juan trying to ruin his family?”

Andrew explained, “Well, legitimacy might be the key here. Juan needs Drake’s help with his gray business. He can’t rely on Marion for that.”

He glanced at Debra and continued, “Moreover, Juan has his reasons for doing this. The alliance between the McKinney Group and the five families has threatened Juan’s position as the top dog. But if he allies with Drake, he’ll have the support of both the Lowe family and the Eaton family. His business will rise even higher, making it difficult for us to compete.”

Randy sighed, “So, their cooperation has been forged, which means Drake will have Juan’s protection in Seamar City. We’ll have to deal with them both, right?”

But Debra felt something was amiss. Previously, Juan had promised to hand over the Nichols Group to her in three months in exchange for her leniency toward Melody and Shelia. Although she hadn’t taken it seriously, she knew Juan wouldn’t make such a promise lightly. There had to be more to it.

Before Debra could figure it out, her phone buzzed with a message. She pulled out the new phone Marion had given her and saw an unfamiliar number. When she answered, a professional-sounding voice came through.

“Is this Ms. Frazier?”

“Yes, it is.”

“Hello, this is the notary office. We have a document that requires your signature.”

“What kind of document?”

“A company stock transfer agreement. You need to come in person.”

Puzzled, Debra replied, “I understand. I’ll be there shortly.”

After ending the call, she wondered if Juan had really meant his words. In the afternoon, she drove to the notary’s office. Signing such documents didn’t usually involve a third party, but having a notary present ensured the authenticity and reliability of the agreement.

The receptionist led Debra to a private room where Juan was already waiting. Debra hesitated, not wanting to contact Juan at such a point. But to find out what he was up to, she walked into the room.

“Ms. Frazier, please review this contract and let me know if there are any issues,” the notary said.