Bullied and Dumped, But She Won in the End (Adriana) novel Chapter 192

**When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen by Kael Niro Senn 192**

**Chapter 192: Inheritance Games**

As Denton delved deeper into the workings of the Lincoln Group, he found himself increasingly awed by Curtis. The man was nothing short of a prodigy. It was truly remarkable how he had managed to steer the Lincoln Group, along with the entire Lincoln legacy, toward a resurgence in such a brief span of time.

Every facet of what the Lincolns now possessed in Harborton was a direct result of Curtis’s relentless efforts and ingenuity.

Denton couldn’t shake the feeling that he was out of his league. Competing with Curtis for something that had always rightfully belonged to him felt not only futile but downright inappropriate.

Michael, too, was in no position to lay claim to it, and neither was he.

“You’re still too young to grasp the significance of a solid foundation. If you aspire to rise to the pinnacle one day, you must comprehend just how vital the Lincoln Group is to your future. Technically speaking, you do have a legal claim to inherit it. And let’s not overlook the fact that Harold didn’t transfer all his shares to Curtis. He struck a deal with the Bartons,” Matthew explained, his tone laced with an air of authority. He referred to the clandestine agreement that existed between the Bartons and the Lincolns.

This very understanding was what bound Curtis to accept a marriage alliance with the Bartons, a fact that Denton found troubling.

“During the Lincoln Group’s most challenging times, it was the Bartons who intervened and saved the day. Without their support, Curtis might have found it impossible to resurrect the company. Consequently, Harold and Jeremy agreed that Curtis could only fully inherit the shares and the family estate if he wed Nicole or if he fathered children of his own.”

Matthew flashed Denton a knowing smile. “You’re a Lincoln too. If you marry Nicole, everything that belongs to both families—the Bartons and the Lincolns—will ultimately become yours.”

He didn’t doubt for a moment that Denton would find the prospect alluring.

For someone like Denton, a mere student without any real power yet, the opportunity was monumental.

The thought of marrying one woman and gaining dominion over the vast wealth and legacy of two of the most influential families was enough to make anyone’s head spin. Even Matthew found himself envious of such a prospect.

Too bad he couldn’t bring himself to like Nicole.

Denton regarded Matthew intently, his gaze unwavering. “If marrying the Bartons’ eldest daughter, Nicole, grants someone access to all their assets, then why didn’t you marry her, Mr. Langford? I guess Ms. Barton isn’t as extraordinary as everyone claims.”

Matthew’s eyebrows flickered with surprise. “The marriage agreement was specifically with the Lincolns.”

Denton nodded, feigning innocence. “But Mr. Langford, I’m only 19… I haven’t even reached the legal age to marry, and I’m still a student. Isn’t it a bit premature to be having this conversation?”

A dull ache began to form in Matthew’s chest; irritation coursed through him. Denton was being incredibly naïve.

The uproar from the extended family members—the uncles and distant relatives—stemmed from the fact that none of them, despite their Lincoln blood, wielded any real influence within the company.

Every pivotal position in the Lincoln Group was occupied by individuals Curtis trusted implicitly.

This was precisely why Harold felt so uneasy, fearing that Curtis, with the wealth and authority he had amassed, wouldn’t be inclined to share any of it with Denton.

Harold understood better than anyone the lengths to which Curtis could go.

That grandson of his had long since slipped from his grasp.

In Harold’s study, the company’s vice president, Anthony Reid, entered quietly, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Mr. Lincoln, just as you anticipated, Mr. Curtis has made his move. All the significant roles within the Lincoln Group are now occupied by his people. Mr. Denton is still young and hasn’t even been formally recognized by the family, and he lacks the necessary connections. Even if he were to share, he wouldn’t be able to maintain his footing in the company. Moreover, your shares remain entangled in that agreement with the Bartons. Sooner or later, they will all end up with Mr. Curtis anyway…”

Anthony sighed, shaking his head. Honestly, Harold was something else—discovering a new grandson at his age. It was only natural for him to want to care for both his son and grandson. Yet, everything had already been handed over to Curtis. Now, attempting to reclaim some of that to divide with another grandson? No one would willingly agree to that.