Chapter 185

Jaydon sighed. Under Bruce's relentless pressure, Starlight Media was struggling. If the film his company invested in couldn't be released, his investment would be lost. Two of his company's sponsored celebrities had also been poached—all Bruce's doing.

Joanna was aware of the situation. Unfortunately, she was in a precarious position herself and couldn't help him.

"Jay, I'm so sorry. It's all my fault!"

Jaydon smiled, unconcerned. He viewed his business ventures as a learning experience. Even if he lost everything, he could always return to the family business. However, he deeply resented his father for his heartless treatment of his mother, which led to her suicide. Despite being his father's favorite son, he maintained distance.

"What do you mean, implicating me? It's a minor issue."

"Don't worry. Eat the food I brought."

"Thank you!" Joanna looked at Jaydon with disappointment and guilt.

Jaydon placed the porridge on the bedside table, handing her a fork and spoon. "If this doesn't work out, we'll move our business to Mossbourne. The market there is booming. Even if Bruce tries to sabotage us, it'll be harder."

Joanna considered this. Mossbourne's rapid development contrasted sharply with Greyport's decline. Shifting their focus was wise. "I'll rely on you during this time."

"Don't mention it. Eat your porridge before it gets cold."

Jaydon urged Joanna to eat the porridge and snacks he'd bought, showing his usual care. Joanna ate silently. She planned to fully concentrate on Mossbourne once the lawsuit with Bruce concluded.

Meanwhile, Bruce was faring poorly. Leaving the hospital, he seethed. Joanna's confidence stemmed from Jaydon's support. Jaydon had consistently resolved the problems Bruce created for Joanna. While not as wealthy as Bruce, Jaydon was the son of Ventura's richest man; his assets were substantial enough for a comeback, even if his film company failed.

Enraged, Bruce called Mark.

Mark answered, "Mr. Everett, what can I do for you?"

Bruce said grimly, "I want Jaydon's film company gone from Greyport. I want it shut down completely, at any cost."

"I'll see what I can do"

Still furious, Bruce's phone rang. It was the Everett Mansion butler.

"Mr. Everett, Mrs. Everett wants you to return tonight."

"What does Grandma want now?"

"She didn't say. She just wants you back."

"Fine." Bruce hung up, frustrated. He'd been in a foul mood and didn't want to return to Everett Mansion, but he dared not disobey his grandmother.

At seven, Bruce returned.

"Welcome back, Mr. Everett!" the servants greeted.

Bruce curtly asked, "Where's Grandma?"

"Mrs. Everett is with Ms. Haynes."

Bruce frowned. "Ms. Haynes?"

"Yes, in the living room."

Bruce went to the living room. Margaret smiled in her wheelchair, Roxanne sitting attentively beside her.

"You must be very careful with this first child, especially during the first three months."

"Move in tomorrow. Grandma will arrange care for you."

Roxanne smiled. "Thank you, Grandma!"

Bruce's frustration grew. "Grandma"

Roxanne stood. "Bruce, you're back!"

Bruce coldly asked, "Why are you here?"

Roxanne explained, "Grandma called me." She looked timidly at Margaret.

Margaret stated, "I asked Roxy to come! Roxy's pregnant. You must be careful! She'll move here, and I'll arrange care."

"Grandma! Why didn't you discuss this with me?"

Margaret scoffed. "Would you have agreed? You're becoming outrageous! She's pregnant, and you're chasing her out? Register your marriage immediately. You've been together long enough."

Bruce was silent. Roxanne quickly agreed, "Yes, Grandma!"

Bruce's brow furrowed. He couldn't tell his grandmother everything, especially given her poor health.

"Bruce, you should move into Everett Mansion."

Bruce blurted, "No need."

Margaret was displeased. "Why? Don't you want to spend time with Grandma?"

"I'm too busy"

Roxanne interrupted, "Bruce, Grandma needs company. Grandma's health is more important than work. Let's listen to Grandma."

Margaret praised, "See? Roxy's the sensible one! Let's have dinner!"

Bruce grumbled, "I have no appetite. You eat. I'll rest." He went upstairs.

"Bruce!" Margaret called.

"Grandma, he's tired. I'll eat with you!"

Margaret sighed, "Fine. Let's ignore him."

After dinner, Roxanne went to Bruce's room. He lay on the bed, unshod, sulking.

Roxanne approached cautiously. "Bruce, are you angry with me?"

Bruce coldly replied, "No."

"I can tell you are. What must I do?" Roxanne placed her hand on his arm.

"I said I'm not angry. Stop being annoying."

"Bruce!"

Bruce impatiently waved her off, lit a cigarette, and took a drag.

Roxanne sobbed. Bruce used to coax her, but now, her tears only frustrated him. He stood and went towards the door.

"Bruce, where are you going?" Roxanne cried, following him.

"I'll take you back. You can't stay here!"

Roxanne's heart sank. She never expected this level of hatred.

"No, Grandma wants me here! She'll be sad!"

Bruce stopped, turning coldly. "Roxanne, there's no love between us. Do you understand?"

Roxanne pleaded, clinging to his hand, "Bruce, give me another chance."

(The final sentence and the advertisement were removed as they were not part of the original text.)