Rachel sighed, knowing Martin’s decision was final. “Alright, I’ll notify them,” she said, then led Matthew out of the courtyard.

Matthew frowned. It was clear Martin was leveraging Rachel’s new role as president to settle old scores and enhance his own standing. The other Carters, however, opposed Rachel’s appointment, and the upcoming birthday party seemed poised to become a battleground over the presidency.

Sensing Matthew’s concern, Rachel explained, “I call the shots at the company, but at home, my word means nothing. Like with Brandon earlier, I knew someone was stirring trouble, hence your having to defend yourself. But my father used it as an excuse to give you a hard time.”

Was this an apology or an explanation? Matthew couldn't tell. Rachel’s tone was cold, devoid of warmth, like an iceberg—unapproachable and freezing. He couldn’t help but recall his earlier diagnosis: Rachel had health issues and needed sex to stabilize her mood. Without it, her demeanor would only worsen.

Matthew slowed his pace. As Rachel walked ahead, he found himself mesmerized by the sway of her hips, alluring as twin volcanoes. He rubbed his hands together, feeling a surge of desire. He needed to act quickly, or her personality would become even colder.

Rachel noticed Matthew falling behind and turned to him. “Why are you stopping?”

Momentarily distracted by her captivating yet frosty expression, Matthew blurted out, “Where am I sleeping tonight?”

Rachel was taken aback. It hadn’t crossed her mind where Matthew would stay. Fred wanted her to build a genuine connection with Matthew to demonstrate to the other branches of the Carter family that, despite being a woman, she had a strong man backing her. But how should she prove it?

Sharing a room would undoubtedly spread through the house staff and solidify their relationship in the eyes of the other families. But sharing a room with Matthew, especially after his comment about her needing a man, felt like walking into a trap.

After a moment of contemplation, Rachel decided Fred’s directive was paramount. “Tonight, you’ll sleep in my room,” she said.

Matthew was astonished. This was unexpected. Perhaps Rachel had taken his diagnosis seriously and wanted to be close to him. The thought of holding her fiery body excited him instantly. Matthew hadn’t had sex in three years, and the anticipation of being with such a beauty filled him with excitement.

“Alright, I’ll do as you say,” he murmured. Rachel saw his excitement and snickered.

As they reached a courtyard entrance, Rachel linked arms with Matthew. “This is my uncle Malcolm Carter’s house. Try to speak less once we go inside.”

Matthew nodded.

Inside the study, Malcolm was shocked by the information Quan had shared. “An ex-convict, divorced, with a child and no care… How could the proud and entitled Rachel choose such a loser? Are you sure this is accurate?!”

Quinn took out his phone. “Dad, this is what Logan found. It details Matthew’s imprisonment, the reasons behind it, everything. There’s even a picture of his home in the rural village. It’s definitely him.”

Malcolm examined the information, his grin widening. “Quinn, this is your chance!”

Quinn was excited. “Dad, you mean to take over the position of president? But Grandpa is still around. Isn’t that risky?!”

Malcolm glared at Quinn. “You fool! The old man doesn’t have much time left. This is our opportunity.”