Can’t Win Me Back

Justin explained, "Jasper and Winston might have gotten along well initially, but things have changed. Jasper and Ms. Alyssa have broken up, and he's repeatedly hurt her.

'As much as Winston favors Jasper, Ms. Alyssa is his daughter-the apple of his eye. His love for her outweighs anything else. Over time, the distance between Winston and Jasper will only grow, and that will no longer hinder our plans.'

'That's my dear Jay! Well done!" Zachary's expression shifted instantly. His lips curled into a smug smile. "Jasper is nothing more than the bastard child of Javier's one-night stand. How could someone like him ever deserve Ms. Alyssa? She's of noble status, far beyond his reach. Jay, you're the only one truly worthy of her."

Justin's deep, inscrutable eyes revealed no emotion. Through gritted teeth, he replied, "Uncle Zachary, you're overthinking it. My only intention is to strip Jasper of his power and show him what true loss feels like.

Zachary's eyes gleamed coldly as he waved dismissively. "I don't care about the petty romance between you young people. What matters is that you dilute Beckett Group's stocks and take control of the corporation. You must avenge my sister-your mother!"

A shadow crossed Justin's pale face. "I will. Right now, Crystal Ice is already being distributed across Solana City. The response has been promising. It won't be long before it reaches all of Cyrris."

Zachary's impatience flared. "And the clinical trials for the new drugs? Accelerate the process! You know I'm not a patient man. I've poured everything into getting you here, and I won't tolerate failure. Don't disgrace the Dutton family!"

"Got it." Justin hesitated for a second, then smiled and asked, "Uncle Zachary, will gaining control of Beckett Group and successfully creating the new drug secure you a place at the Kings' Club's Roundtable Conference?" The Roundtable Conference-an elite gathering of the most powerful members of Kings' Club-symbolized ultimate authority.

Zachary's current rank, Ace of Diamonds, fell just short of the top echelon, the Ace of Spades. Gaining control of Beckett Group was his key to rising higher.

it was the key to cementing his

of greed and madness crossed Zachary's face as he laughed. "Of course. The pinnacle of power is just one step

advance,

he added, "Uncle Zachary, I have a favor to ask. Would you consider nominating me for a spot on the Roundtable

Zachary's laughter erupted, loud and

laughter. The longer he watched, the colder Justin's eyes became, like a viper lying in wait for its

this long and where your power and riches come from, have you?"

I brought you into Kings' Club and introduced you to the people who

have died the same year you went to Mosgravia for treatment. I

spent all that money on your medication so you could live. You only survived because of me!

an unflinching gaze, though emotions

noble. He did all that so

scoffed silently. He was nothing but Zachary's guinea pig, a

effects of banned