Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 209

Hearing his son compare him to a beggar, Thatch’s rage finally boiled over. His face was a thundercloud.

“So, you’re really not going to give me the million?” he asked, his voice dangerously low.

“Submit a request first,” Haskell repeated, his tone final.

That was the last straw. Thatch kicked a nearby chair with a roar of fury. “You should have died in that kidnapping while saving Valeria!”

He spun around to leave, but Crispin, acting on a silent command from Haskell, blocked his path.

“Crispin, what are you…”

Before he could finish, Crispin’s fist connected with his face. Thatch grunted and staggered back, staring at the assistant in disbelief.

“Dad,” Haskell said calmly, “that was for your careless words. Next time you want to threaten me, remember what happened to your precious illegitimate daughter when she disrespected me.”

Thatch clutched his bruised face, seething that Haskell would so blatantly disregard his dignity as a father.

“Fine,” he spat through gritted teeth. “Just fine! A son who has his men strike his own father. You’re truly something else. I’ll remember this!”

Swallowing his humiliation, he slammed the door on his way out.

“As for why our attitudes changed after your accident… I was afraid that if Valeria and I showed you pity, it would only make you more sensitive. I thought a harsh attitude might motivate you. I never meant for you to misunderstand, let alone hurt Valeria so badly.”

“Bro, we’re family, bound by blood. I would never be so monstrous as to repay your kindness with betrayal.”

By the time he finished, Draven’s eyes were red, brimming with unshed tears.

Haskell remained unmoved by the tearful performance. “I will find out whether you two planned that kidnapping,” he said coolly. “If you didn’t, I won’t trouble you further.”

“But you didn’t stay behind just to appeal to my emotions, did you? Oh, that’s right. When I banned you from the company yesterday, Dad said he was going to talk to Grandpa. I take it that didn’t go well? Grandpa isn't planning to let you into the company either, is he?”