Where Petals of Vengeance Bloom novel Chapter 80

Ethan felt a pang of guilt, torn by the impossible choice before him. "But..."

"No buts!" Nathan interrupted, his tone softening slightly. "The auction is just days away, and The Fosters of Northcrest are determined to acquire the Eastborough land. Even if we, The Linwood Group, join forces with the Cole Corporation, we might not be able to outbid the Foster family."

Nathan frowned, concern etched across his face. "If the Foster family gets Eastborough, our position in Cresthaven will slowly be eroded. The authorities have already issued documents prioritizing the Eastborough Project, and once it's developed, the business focus will shift there. If the Foster family controls Eastborough, they'll hold the economic power of Cresthaven."

He continued, his voice heavy with worry. "The Linwood Group and the Cole Corporation can't match Foster & Co. Our only option is to collaborate with them, and a marriage alliance seems like the best way."

Ethan clenched his fists, his knuckles whitening with tension, guilt for Claire weighing heavily on him.

Adah, standing nearby, began to sob quietly. "Ethan, we don't want this either, but the family's business supports so many employees. We have no other choice. Do you think your father and I are happy about this? I haven't slept well since I thought of Claire having to endure this."

She wiped her tears, her voice trembling. "I'm her mother; my love for her is no less than yours as her brother. The Foster heir might have a bad reputation, but his family is well-established. Rumors aren't always true, and perhaps he's not as ruthless as they say."

Ethan remained silent, understanding his parents' concerns. Personal happiness seemed insignificant compared to family interests.