Chapter 567

Natalie jerked her hand free from Elyse's tight grip."Go ahead and leave if you must, but I'm holding on to Daniela, my source of wealth."

Additionally, if capturing Cedric's heart was beyond her reach, surely she could sway Cormac? Despite Nina's interference, she refused to concede defeat.

When Nina came back, Cedric was in the kitchen,meticulously preparing fruit for Daniela, who was comfortably nestled on the couch, her eyes glued to the television screen.

Head bowed, Nina quietly stepped in, casting a fleeting glance at Daniela before stopping at the kitchen entrance.

"Cedric, my mother and Natalie caused a scene today. I'm sorry for the trouble."

Cedric kept his attention on the task at hand.The kitchen was engulfed in a deep silence, broken only by the rhythmic sound of water.

Nina observed Cedric as he washed the cherries and arranged them in a basket, then turned the faucet off.

The abrupt silence left nothing but an icy stillness.

Nina's discomfort grew, a nagging unease that had followed her on her journey back. She dreaded becoming a burden to those around her.

As she tangled with her anxieties, Cedric's voice,low and soothing, cut through the silence.

"Daniela sees you as family. Her childhood was filled with hardships, and though she might appear reserved, she genuinely enjoys the warmth of company. She doesn't regard you as an inconvenience. I hope you can find joy here, as part of our family."

Cedric turned to Nina, his expression softening."You know, since we're all family here, causing chaos isn't a concern,right?"

His voice carried the casual ease of a simple truth.

He didn't wait for her response; instead,he walked over to Daniela, presenting her with the fruit.

Nina watched him go, a surge of emotions swelling in her chest.

To be considered part of the family-this was a novel and heartwarming experience for her.She had never before felt such a profound sense of belonging and affection.

Now, within the walls of Daniela's home, it was taking place.

Daniela had previously given Alexander a month to deal with the eight members of the commerce association.

After that, she hadn't paid attention, just waiting to see the results in a month. However, Alexander would send updates. While Daniela was watching TV, she received a message from Alexander. "Quick update-Winslow has stepped down from the association; that leaves seven."

Daniela paused, the name "Winslow" sparking a faint memory.

He had once approached her, offering a large sum of money, an action she had barely acknowledged at the time. Now, his name resonated with newfound significance.

Over the next two weeks, Daniela heard nothing from Alexander, a clear sign that matters were deteriorating.

Daniela did some investigating herself. Previously,during the acquisition, several people had been dealt with. Now that she had stepped back, they were eager to make a comeback.

Ryan presented the latest market shares to Daniela,highlighting that Bennett Group's progress had stalled since aligning with the association. Lillian, ever practical, remarked, "It's to be expected.Those seven individuals are tight-knit. Alexander stands little chance against their united front."

"Fool!" Daniela responded with a dismissive sneer.

Lillian continued, "Winslow's reaction is peculiar,though. He sensed the adverse tides and promptly backed out. I hear he's even prepping his immigration papers. Didn't he claim to be uninvolved? Why the sudden rush to leave?"

Lillian's tone was nonchalant as she spoke, but the news visibly surprised Daniela, and Lillian caught the shift in her demeanor.

They shared a knowing look, silent yet potent.

With a piercing gaze, Daniela commanded, "Dig into this. If needed, press Caiden or Elyse for details about this man's involvement in my mother's death."

Lillian wasted no time and sought out Elyse.

Under Lillian's stern stare, Elyse shivered,confessing, "Winslow was a latecomer to the association. I hadn't much dealings with him. He's always so introspective and reserved."

Lillian's expression turned colder. "Had Daniela's mother ever mentioned him before she died?"

Elyse shook her head. "No, never."

Lillian tucked her dagger away and made to depart.Elyse followed her. "Lillian, considering that the nation's foremost entertainment enterprise bears Daniela's name, could you possibly unearth some resources for Natalie?"

Lillian cast a sidelong glance at Elyse, whose smile was tinged with hope. "You should speak to Cedric about that. He's entitled to all of Daniela's assets."

"Did Daniela consent to that?" Elyse pressed, her voice tinged with urgency.

Lillian replied curtly, "Indeed,she did."

At this, Elyse was momentarily at a loss for words.

Returning to converse with Daniela, Lillian relayed Elyse's response.

"She didn't even mention Winslow?" Daniela's voice trailed off into silence.

"What troubles you, Daniela?" Lillian inquired, noting her distraction.

Daniela hesitated, her tone reflective. "I can't quite articulate the feeling. It's unsettling."

Persisting, Lillian added, "Caiden mentioned he would remain silent unless you visit him."

Daniela gave a slow nod. "I'll pay him a visit this evening.Please fetch Linden for me."

Lillian observed Daniela closely. "Are you concerned that Nina lacks the strength to manage Natalie?"

Daniela exhaled sharply. "Nina's approach is too mild. I doubt she'll be able to handle it properly.Luckily, with Linden there, Natalie won't get the chance to make a mess."

Chuckling, Lillian exited to call Linden. Upon Linden's arrival, Daniela instructed, "I need you to take care of Nina on the set. What are your thoughts?"

Linden, quick to grasp the underlying implication,assured her confidently, "You can count on me.I won't disappoint you."