Chapter 293: Respect

"Don't assume I won't kill you," Kane said, furrowing his eyebrows and pressing the point of a sharp dagger against William's throat. William trembled at the dagger's coldness. He feared death, as everyone did, but he couldn't hand over Jared.

"You should have called to say you were visiting Horington, Mr. Whitaker. I would have given you a warmer welcome…" A cheerful voice rang out from behind. It was Walter.

He glanced at the groaning bodyguards and then at the dagger in Kane's hand. "You've just arrived in Horington and you're already brandishing a dagger, Mr. Whitaker? We could just sit down and talk," he said with a smile. He stepped forward, took the dagger from Kane, and laid it aside.

Walter, a former official in Summerbank, had been friends with Kane. His influence had diminished considerably since leaving his post, but Kane still afforded him some respect, returning to his seat.

"You should sit down too, Mr. Sullivan," Walter added, mediating. William nodded and sat. He had called Walter on his way to the hotel, knowing he couldn't win against the Whitakers. He'd contacted Walter hoping for a monetary solution rather than bloodshed. He didn't want to die.

"I've heard about this, Mr. Whitaker," Walter said. "With all due respect, I think your son is somewhat in the wrong. Let's find a solution. How about Mr. Sullivan apologizes publicly and offers additional reparations? I'm sure Mr. Sullivan won't refuse anything within the Sullivan family's capabilities." He smiled at Kane.

"Do you think my family lacks money, Mr. Grange?" Kane smirked.

Walter, momentarily flustered, stammered, "Of course the Whitakers aren't short of money. What resolution would satisfy you, Mr. Whitaker?"

"Hand over the man who broke my son's leg, and have Josephine care for my son. It's her fault he's like this!" Kane glared coldly at William, intentionally making an outrageous demand.

William slammed his fist on the table. "Your son kidnapped my daughter, and now you want her to care for him? Are you insane? You might as well kill me now!"

"Don't think I won't!" Kane gestured, and his men surrounded William again.

"Stay calm, Mr. Whitaker. Show some respect. We—"

"I showed you respect by calling you Mr. Grange. If you interfere again, don't blame me if you get hurt!" Kane roared, cutting Walter off.

Walter, humiliated and trembling with rage, could do nothing. His influence in Summerbank had vanished, and even in his prime, Kane's respect had been unpredictable. Demanding respect now was impossible.

The passage has been cleaned up for grammar, punctuation, and flow. The extraneous website promotion has been removed.