James's words were met with discontent from the Callahans. Tommy yelled, "Who do you think you are, meddling in Callahan affairs?" Megan recalled James humiliating her publicly and forcing her to kneel at Yuna's banquet the previous day. Upset, she sarcastically berated him: "The remaining three are falling soon? Who do you think you are? Alex Yates? Do you get to decide their fates?" Gladys reprimanded him, "What an embarrassment. Can't you keep your mouth shut?"
Thea gave James a disgruntled look, implying he should have kept his thoughts to himself. She lacked confidence in leading the Callahans to glory, recognizing that becoming an influential family required not only wealth but also strong connections.
Lex ignored James, focusing on Thea. "Thea, listen. I'll give you three years. If you can transform us into an influential family and increase our assets tenfold within that time, I'll give you fifty percent of the Group's shares, and you'll remain executive chairman."
Thea was intimidated. How could she increase the family's assets so dramatically in three years? She wasn't omnipotent.
Gladys looked at her sharply. "Why hesitate?" Her look implied, "Accept his offer and acquire the shares." Thea glanced at her family: Gladys, Benjamin, David, and Alyssa watched expectantly.
After considering, Thea said, "Grandpa, I'm not making any promises. However, if I'm in charge, I'll do my best to bring glory to the family. I'll work hard to make us influential and powerful."
Lex was relieved. Thea's connections were extraordinary; her full commitment would likely elevate the family's status. He stood. "A deal's a deal. Thea, come to the Callahan residence for share redistribution negotiations. Don't worry; I won't go back on my word." "Thank you, Grandpa, for having faith in me," Thea replied gratefully.
"We'll take our leave," Lex said, departing with Howard and the others, their expressions grim.
After they left, David exclaimed, "Yes! Fifty percent of the shares means we control half the Callahans! Thea, you've made us proud!"
Benjamin felt disoriented. Lex had treated him poorly for years, giving him no shares. Now, they held fifty percent—it felt surreal.
Gladys glanced at James. It had been his idea, though she'd only mentioned it casually; she never expected Lex to agree.
"He's not entirely useless," Gladys said, pursing her lips.
Thea, however, remained anxious. "It's too early to celebrate. He'll take the shares back if I fail as executive chairman." David dismissed her concerns. "Thea, business is booming now that Eternality has a permanent partnership with Celestial Group! What are you afraid of? And with your closeness to Ms. Lawson, dealing with Longevity Pharmaceuticals will be easy." Thea pondered. "That's true."
Her insecure expression shifted to anticipation. Had her time finally arrived to apply her knowledge? She looked forward to leading the Callahans, entering the corporate world, and achieving great things. She would bring glory to the family, making them truly powerful.
Watching her newfound confidence, James smiled. His manipulations would ensure Thea's business success; soon, her name would be renowned.
The share redistribution thrilled Thea's family but displeased Howard and John's families. Most shares were in Lex's hands; redistribution would shrink their holdings, and there was no guarantee they'd receive any.
Night fell. Dressed glamorously and surrounded by her family, Thea entered the Callahan villa. The living room was full; Howard and John's families were present, representing three generations of Callahans.
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