Family on Their Knees Heart Turned to Ice novel Chapter 445

“Where would I get that kind of money? You both know what my salary is, and you know how high my expenses are. Now that the household staff has left, I even have to pay to hire new people. Where would I find any extra cash for you?”

As soon as Bella said this, Brandon exploded. “Bella, don’t think I don’t know how much money you have. I haven't even had a chance to settle the score with Dad about that sum he gave you. If you don’t hand it over, what are you planning to do with it? You call him ‘Dad’ too. Now that he’s in jail, you’re not going to pitch in to get him out?”

Bella felt a flicker of guilt. She had assumed Brandon didn't know about the money Martin had given her. But she quickly composed herself. “Brandon, let’s be fair. Dad did give me some money. But as you know, I had to borrow money to buy those shares from Lillian. The moment Dad gave me the money, I naturally paid that debt back first.”

“Bella, don’t be like that,” Colin interjected. “Just give us what you have. Do you really think your brothers would let you lose out? We’re a family now. If Dad stays in there, it’ll become a joke in our social circles. It's not just about being a laughingstock; people will start to question the Mercer family's strength and wonder if we're having financial problems. You're part of this family now, and you hold a significant number of shares. You should do your part. Protecting the family's honor and reputation, and keeping the stock price stable, is in your best interest. Don’t fail to see the logic in this.”

Colin pleaded earnestly, but Bella remained unmoved. Of the money she had, she had lent thirty million to Debbie and had just spent over seven million on a car. Although she still had a considerable amount left, she intended to pay it all back to Sebastian. Even if Sebastian said he didn't need it, she had to at least make the gesture of repaying him so he wouldn't look down on her. She was going to marry him and build a life with him, after all.

“Bella, I see how it is,” Brandon said, his voice cold. “When it’s time to take money, you’re faster than anyone. But when you’re asked to give, you won’t spare a dime. I’ll be sure to tell Dad that when he gets out.”

“What’s that supposed to mean, Brandon?” Bella retorted. “I’m here, aren’t I? I may not have money, but I’m willing to help. Since Lillian is out, I’ll go with you to find her. Let's go right now. We'll make her agree to a settlement and drop the claim for damages. Then Dad will naturally be released.”