Chapter 244: Honorable

"Thank you, Mrs. Lowe!" William smiled faintly before sitting down on a couch with Jared.

While waiting for Glen, Jared scanned the room. The furniture was old and appeared worthless— hardly fitting for a mayor's house! Helen, however, was friendly and humble. He couldn't understand how Frederick differed so much from his mother.

Shortly afterward, the study door opened, and four men emerged. One was Glen, a man in his forties who looked like a gentleman, wearing glasses and simple clothing, yet exuding an air of authority. The other three were presumably the businessmen Helen had mentioned. One, a thin man with a goatee, caught Jared's attention; his glinting eyes seemed to radiate spiritual energy.

"Is he an energy cultivator, too?" Jared murmured, studying the man.

"Mr. Lowe," the goateed businessman declared, "we urge you to reconsider our offer. Our investment would greatly benefit Horington's economic development. Grant us the southern region, and we'll transform it into a new city within three years."

"I cannot base my decision solely on financial gain," Glen replied, his expression frosty. "My descendants would denounce me. More importantly, I must consider the citizens' welfare. Their support is as vital as money. This discussion is over. Please leave."

The meeting clearly ended poorly.

"Very well, Mr. Lowe," the goateed businessman said, extending a hand. "Goodbye."

Despite the unproductive discussion, a handshake was exchanged. As their hands met, a wisp of black mist transferred from the businessman's palm into Glen's.

Glen remained unaware, but Jared saw everything. He frowned, staring intently at the businessman, who, seemingly noticing the scrutiny, glanced at Jared before returning his attention to Glen.

After the businessmen left, Glen sat sipping tea, looking furious.

"Glen, Sullivan's waiting," Helen reminded him.

Snapping back to reality, Glen apologized to William. "Sullivan! Please sit. I'm sorry, I was preoccupied."

"Don't worry, Mr. Lowe," William said, Jared following close behind. "You work tirelessly for Horington. We appreciate your time."

Glen chuckled. "Sullivan, you're a vital part of Horington's success. Without you, it would have been impossible. Fred updated me about your family's land in the west. I've expedited the approvals. For legitimate business, come to me directly—no need for Fred as an intermediary."

He then asked, "Mr. Grange told me you wished to apologize. What's that about?"

William explained, "Yesterday, Jared and Fred had a misunderstanding at my house. A scuffle ensued, and Jared acted impulsively. I brought him to apologize."

Glen glanced at Jared, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Youngsters have tempers. No need to involve Mr. Grange for such a minor matter. I thought something serious had happened. If so, even Mr. Grange's call wouldn't have helped!"

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