Chapter 82

Akden chose not to bring anyone, out of respect for Kyle's preferences.

Kyle didn't comment, simply nodding and escorting Akden out.

Once inside his car, Akden made a call. "I've found Moses's successor, but I didn't manage to get any information. Not that it's surprising—anyone Moses picks wouldn't be easy to deal with. I suspect this guy is far more formidable than we anticipated.

Spread the word: everyone needs to be ready. He's bound to shake the Khan family to its core, and bloodshed might be inevitable."

Meanwhile, three generations of the Khan family, heavily guarded by a trained armed bodyguard detail, arrived in Kerdonia. Their arrival exuded power and authority, each step brimming with confidence and an air of superiority.

"Damn Khans, always bossing me around! You dogs! Just wait until I find Grandpa's successor and seize control. I'll shred you all to pieces and feed you to the dogs!" Henderson Khan slammed the car door shut, his face full of irritation. "Darn it, coming all the way here in the middle of the night is exhausting!"

His assistant in the passenger seat hummed a flattering response with a smile, trying to appease him. "Mr. Khan, this just shows how much faith they have in you. Who else could handle this? Coming to Kerdonia is a huge opportunity. Once you finish this mission, no one will dare accuse you of being a lazy good-for-nothing who only indulges in food and entertainment."

Henderson's anger subsided slightly, though his expression remained sour.

"All this fuss just to deal with some nobody who stumbled into shares by sheer luck? When I, Henderson Khan, step in, it's like using a cannon to kill a mosquito. These fools clearly don't respect me enough." With a cold snort, he added, "I'll take out all my frustrations on that little brat. Who does he think he is, daring to lay a hand on the Khan family's assets? Honestly, I wonder if Grandpa has lost his mind—or if he has some personal grudge against this guy, sending him to his death like this."

The assistant, a bit uneasy at Henderson's rage, tried to calm him down. "Mr. Khan, let's stay focused on the bigger picture. The higher-ups have made it clear: if money can solve the problem, we use money. No need to stir up unnecessary trouble. Once you've completed the task, the rewards will be yours. Of course, if the other party refuses to cooperate… we can use other methods if necessary."

Henderson burst out laughing. He patted the headrest of the front seat. "You've got a way with words, you bootlicker. No wonder I like bringing you along. Fine, we'll see how I feel when the time comes."

"Now, find us a place to stay. Those idiots couldn't even dig up an address. If they don't get it done in half a day, they're all fired!"

Despite Henderson's outbursts, Justin, the assistant, bit his tongue and gave the driver instructions, knowing that crossing Henderson would have dire consequences.

Midway through the drive, Henderson's expression twisted in discomfort. He slapped the seat. "Justin, find a hospital. Damn it, I don't know what I ate, but my stomach…"

Justin immediately turned to the driver, urgency in his voice. "Mr. Khan isn't feeling well; hurry, get us to the nearest hospital!"

Meanwhile, Belle had arrived at the hospital and was in Matthew's room, patiently explaining why it wasn't the right time to make a move against Kyle. But Matthew was in no mood to listen. "Belle, have you lost your nerve? It's just Kyle! Why are you hesitating so much? If you won't help me, I'll do it myself."

Belle exhaled softly, still trying to reason with him.

But Matthew turned to her, his expression clouded with suspicion. "Do you still have feelings for Kyle? Is that why you're hoping to reconcile with him?"

Before Belle could respond, Margaret, who had been sitting nearby, interjected angrily. "Belle, are you even my daughter? Are you even Matthew's sister?" Margaret snapped. "After what Kyle did to your brother and me, how can you stand here and ask me to forgive him? I'm warning you: if you dare to reconcile with Kyle, I'll sever our relationship right here and now!" Her tone was cutting, a clear display of her fury. It wasn't just about the personal betrayal anymore. As a successful CEO's mother, Margaret's pride had been insulted. To be affiliated with someone like Kyle, a former convict? If word got out, her social circles—old friends, business partners—would mock her.

Belle's face was etched with frustration and grievance. She couldn't deny the truth: some part of her still held feelings for Kyle. She also felt a surge of anger and jealousy when she saw Lily growing close to Kyle.

"It's impossible. I would never reconcile with Kyle," Belle said honestly, though her voice trembled. "I've worked hard to get to where I am now, and I won't let anyone ruin that. Kyle has nothing to offer me—he'd only drag me down!"