Henry had always been wary of Manuel, fearing his every move. Manuel was his biggest competitor, a threat he couldn't afford to underestimate.

"Look at this," Manuel said, suddenly handing him a document.

Henry examined it. It was a 20% share transfer certificate for Phillips Bank, ordering him to transfer his shares to Manuel.

Henry's anger exploded. He threw the document onto Manuel's desk. "Are you insane? Do you think I'll agree? What makes you think I'd sign this?"

Manuel remained impassive. Rising from his chair—his height lending him an air of authority—he said, "Don't you ever think I'll transfer the share!" Henry snapped back, his sarcasm betraying his disbelief. He thought Manuel was daydreaming; did he believe Henry would simply relinquish his shares because he'd reconciled with Susan?

"So, you're sure you'll never touch Susan again?" Manuel asked.

The thought of the agreement concerning his shares sent a fresh wave of anger through Henry. If he wanted to keep his Phillips Bank shares, he couldn't be with Susan. That was the deal. But he was loath to give the shares to Manuel. Even if he broke the deal, he'd rather give them to Edward; eventually, everything Edward possessed would belong to him through Susan.

"My shares are not yours for the taking," Henry retorted, his arrogance growing.

Manuel produced another document. "Have a look."

The contents proved far more damning than the previous one. Henry was speechless. Manuel saw through his turmoil.

"The secret transaction between you and Sway Group is clear. Publication would have severe consequences."

Henry looked devastated. He'd thought his actions were flawless, yet Manuel possessed undeniable evidence. If handed to the police, it would be his ruin. Manuel could have exposed him immediately, but chose this slow, agonizing method instead. What did he want?

"I just want the shares," Manuel said, as if reading Henry's mind. "After all, even in jail, the shares would remain yours. You're no threat to me, imprisoned or not."

Henry, though humiliated, had to admit the truth. "Manuel, I only have 20% of the shares. But if you have Susan, you'll control far more. Phillips Bank would be yours."

It wasn't a genuine assessment of gains and losses; Henry was trying to provoke a confession from Manuel.

"I said I respect Susan's choice. She chose you, so she's yours."

Henry doubted Manuel's sincerity.

"Believe it or not, you have two choices: sign this transfer, or I'll release this document to the police." It was hardly a choice; Henry could only choose the former. The latter would destroy him.

Yet, Henry remained defiant. He'd expected to return the shares eventually, but not under duress.

"How can I trust you won't expose me even if I give you the shares? You might take the shares and still betray me."

Manuel met his gaze. "Did I expose you regarding your previous dealings with Sawyer Group and the billion-dollar loan?"

Henry’s jaw clenched. He hadn't expected Manuel to know about that.

"It's simple. Sway Group operates in Kensbury City; the biggest beneficiary is always the mole," Manuel explained, unwilling to prolong the conversation. "Once Sway Group acquires Phillips Bank's shares, I'll be dismissed. You'd be the next in line. In Phillips Bank, you’re the only victim."

"I targeted you, monitored you. I deliberately kept you off the project team, pushing you to extremes. When you failed to provide them with useful information, they'd retaliate. You’d be forced into illegal activities—and I'd have you."

Henry glared at him, his contempt palpable.

"Sign it," Manuel commanded. "You have no choice."

Henry felt utterly trapped. He picked up a pen and signed. Manuel was right. He had no choice.