The Rose He Showed Off Is Putting Down Roots in a Garden of Her Own novel Chapter 86

Gideon launched into a comprehensive breakdown, detailing everything from corporate synergy and risk assessment to the grim reality of Vance Properties' balance sheets.

He usually didn't bother spelling things out this painfully.

Zane was the CEO of Whitaker Group and a titan in real estate; he didn't need the basics spoon-fed to him.

But Gideon was feeling unusually insecure about the deal, which made him talk more than he should.

"Gideon," Zane interrupted. They had known each other for years, fought countless battles, and understood exactly how the other operated.

"You know me. I've always preferred to go my own way."

"Life is long. Maximizing profit isn't my only priority."

Hearing this, Gideon felt a wave of disappointment. Zane was one of the few rivals he truly respected.

There were unspoken rules to corporate warfare, and operating on pure whim was essentially flipping the board.

"The CEO of Whitaker Group shouldn't be saying things like that. We answer to our shareholders, not to our personal attachments."

Zane's expression remained perfectly neutral. "I am the heir to the Whitaker family. Indulging my personal whims now and then is a given."

Gideon stared at him coldly. "Decisions driven by personal emotion rarely end well."

"That sounds about right," Zane replied with a chilling smile. "Just like you, fully aware that a young woman was abused, yet choosing to look the other way."

Gideon was stunned. Was *that* the only reason Zane had agreed to this meeting?

Frustration flared in Gideon's chest.

Zane didn't sugarcoat it. "Gideon, she's young. This crossed the line into outright bullying."

"I don't care who threw the hit or how spoiled they are. You don't lay a hand on her."

"Her face is heavily bruised. Your people went too far."

Irritated, Gideon frowned. "She told you this?"

"She refused to say a word," Zane said, his voice dropping in temperature. "You stand up for her out in the world, so I assume you care about her to some degree."

"She might take a few verbal hits in high society, but someone slaps her across the face right under your watch?"

"I won't judge the morals of your family, but let this be the last time. Because I consider her my sister."

Gideon stared at Zane, his stomach sinking further.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify