"Sweetheart, we've got a new addition to the family, but that doesn't mean we love you any less. You're my firstborn, my treasure all these years. Give it a few more years, and when you're married with kids, your mom and dad won't be your number ones anymore."
Mandy, holding onto her dad's arm, said with a pout, "Dad, I'm not planning on getting married. All I've met are jerks. I'm done with dating. I'll just stay home and be single forever."
"Mandy, as long as you're happy, that's all that matters to your mom and me,"
Evan tried to change the subject, mainly hoping Mandy wouldn't get caught up in Shay's antics.
Evan made it here because Josefina had called him, hoping he could find Mandy and have a good chat with her. So, after wrapping things up at the company with Ayala, Evan headed over to Westwood.
...
Hunter made his way back to the Rowland household. The news of his return startled Marina. She hadn't even made it back to the big Rowland estate, and the old man was already there?
Marina, with some sweet-talking, finally convinced Darrick to take her back to the Rowland estate. Upon their arrival, the entire Rowland clan was gathered.
Peter and Caiden were seated on either side of their mom, Sandy, like her personal bodyguards. Darrick, along with Marina and Xavier, showed up, but Sandy didn't even glance their way. Peter and Caiden acted like they saw nothing.
Seeing Darrick bringing Xavier and Marina over, Hunter was visibly upset. "Darrick, seems like you've chosen to ignore my words. I've made it clear they're not welcome in this family. Why didn't you listen?"
"Dad, Marina and I have a child now. Xavier's grown up, it's time he was acknowledged by the family."
Hunter scoffed, "What's this? You're challenging me now?"
"Dad, I'm just saying, Xavier's your grandson too. You can't play favorites," Darrick argued.
Sandy laughed mockingly at Xavier, "What? If he's not acknowledged by the family, does that mean he's not yours? Belongs to someone else?"
Darrick turned livid, "Shut up!"
Darrick panicked, "Dad, what are you saying? You prefer grandsons over your son?"
"Caiden and Peter are competent. I trust the family business in their hands. As for you, take this woman and get out."
Xavier protested, "Grandpa, I'm your grandson too!"
Hunter sneered, "I've got my real grandsons. What do I need you for?"
Hunter continued, "I've made it public, disowning Darrick and refusing to acknowledge any of his children. The Rowland family will now be in Caiden and Peter's hands."
Marina nearly stumbled in shock. "No! This can't be happening! I won't accept it!"
She had schemed for years, aiming to take control of the Rowland family. She was so close to reaching the top. She couldn't let her plans crumble now!

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