Outside the Callahan mansion:

"Enough," Thea said, pulling away from James's grip. She stared into his eyes. "James, are you done throwing your fit? This is my family. If Grandpa wants you to kneel, just do it. Why are you being so stubborn?"

"Thea" James began.

"Go," Thea interrupted, turning and walking back into the mansion without another word.

James was dumbfounded. He was a Black Dragon; this shouldn't have happened. However, for Thea's sake, he swallowed his pride. He knew she valued her family above all else. That's why he didn't run after her. Instead, he waited outside, sitting on the steps, lighting a cigarette and taking out his phone. He called Henry.

"I want to meet the Blithe King," he said. His only hope was to secure Thea an invitation to the succession ceremony. Only then could he raise the Callahans' social standing and make Thea happy.

Soon, Henry called back. "James, the appointment's made. The Blithe King wants to meet you in person. You say when."

"Night time, Central Garden," James replied.

"Sure, I'll call him right away."

After the call, James waited outside as the family meeting continued for another hour. When the Callahans emerged, their displeasure was evident. Gladys relentlessly criticized James, suggesting Thea divorce him. David, the confirmed heir, was the angriest. James's actions had cost them millions—half their father's shares.

"Great f*cking job, man," David snarled, giving James a death stare.

"Stop blaming James," Thea said, her tone calmer now. "He only did this to protect me." She regretted her earlier outburst; James was the only one who had her back. James smiled.

"It's fine, Thea. I'll get you an invitation and earn your family's respect." No one believed him.

"If this happens again, you'll be dead!" Gladys yelled before leaving.

Back home, James was largely ignored. He retreated to the balcony for another cigarette. Benjamin entered, attempting to console him.

"James, please don't take it to heart. You'll get used to it eventually."

James didn't answer. He couldn't respect such cowardice. Benjamin, taking the hint, fell silent. James spent the morning cleaning and cooking, ignoring the Callahans' disdain; Thea was all that mattered.

That night, James went to Central Garden. Two men sat under a gazebo.

"You're the one who killed Trent?" one asked.

"Yes," James replied, unafraid. "He deserved it, and so did his family."

The Blithe King frowned and changed the subject. "What are you meeting me for?"

"Nothing major. The Callahans want an invitation to your succession ceremony. Send them one," James said, rising and walking away.