126Darwin arrived at The Golden Fork just before 8, the early morning sunlight casting a warm glow over the city. The upscale restaurant was known for its exclusivity and privacy, making it an ideal location for discreet meetings. As he entered, the familiar scent of rich espresso and buttery pastr
127As Darwin and Alastair exited The Golden Fork, the morning sun had grown brighter overhead. Their discussion had lifted Darwin's spirits, filling him with a renewed sense of purpose. Facing Maxwell directly was a risky plan, but it gave him agency in toppling the man who'd caused him so much gri
128Even though Emmanuel had put up a false bravado, his heart beat rapidly in his chest as he hurriedly walked to his car, he subtly glanced behind him to ensure that Alstair or Darwin were not following closely behind,'What have I done?! Maxwell will have my hide!’ he mused to himself as he trudg
129After the encounter with Emmanuel, Darwin couldn't help but feel a mixture of victory and unease as he entered his car. His thoughts were a whirlwind as he drove to Weston Manufacturing Corp., the latest altercation providing unexpected insights into his ongoing struggle with Maxwell. Upon arri
130In the ensuing silence, Derek's disbelief was palpable, his stance rigid. Darwin, sitting calmly behind his desk, watched Derek with a quiet amusement that only seemed to inflame his childhood rival further."No way in hell am I presenting to you," Derek spat, clenching his fists so tightly his
131Darwin couldn't help but feel a tinge of satisfaction at Derek's clear discomfort and disbelief. All those years of torment at the orphanage by Derek and his gang came flooding back. "Sit down, Derek," Darwin said coolly, gesturing to one of the chairs in front of his large oak desk. Derek beg
132For a moment, he stood frozen, a statue of betrayal and pain. Then, with a shaking hand, he quietly withdrew, stepping back from the door as if it were the source of his anguish. The urge to confront Maxwell was overwhelming, yet the realization of his utter manipulation rendered him powerless,
133Seeing Darwin's guarded appreciation, Emmanuel felt a warmth spread through him, a stark contrast to the cold dread that had filled him earlier. "I... I just want to make things right," he said, his voice cracking with emotion.Darwin nodded, a silent acknowledgment of Emmanuel's sincerity. He t