Dear Ex-wife Marry Me novel (Maja) novel Chapter 2020

The man in the suit didn't take offense. In his mind, a person's weaknesses were handles to grip them by. If Abner didn't care about anything, it would be much harder to control him. His lips curled into a smile as he slowly pried Abner's clenched fists open.

"It's good to have spirit, keep it up. I look forward to seeing how you handle going back to the family."

Abner's expression went through a rapid change. Barely 18, and yet he was forced to shoulder all this responsibility. He took a step back, grabbed the $50,000 in cash, slung his backpack over his shoulder, and left.

Someone approached the man in the suit, their brows furrowed in concern.

"He's even tougher than his father."

To be this tough on oneself, let alone others. Luckily, he had someone he cared about now. If there came a day when he had no one, he’d be like a wild horse without reins.

Another man, however, had a different take.

"The old man won't allow an heir with any weaknesses. If he knew Abner had tied his future to a girl so early, it would surely tarnish his image of him. I suggest we first take Shirley captive. Once Abner secures his position as the head of the family, then we can deal with Shirley. That way, he'll become the ruthless machine we need."

The man who had just crossed paths with Abner slowly looked at the scars on his knuckles, thinking about Abner's sudden burst of protective fury, a smirk forming on his lips.

"We can't kill Shirley. Not only can we not kill her, but we must also ensure she lives well. She will forever be the leverage we have over Abner. Don't be too clever for your own good. This kid has grown so much in such a short time; his future is immeasurable. If Shirley were to die, guess who would be the next? If he cares so much about Shirley, how could he let those who hurt her live?"

Silence fell over the room at those words. It was clear, those who harmed Shirley wouldn't survive long.

Their faces fell in a moment of silent acknowledgment, the man in the suit’s fingertips brushing over his wounds.