Peter stormed into his study, hurling the metro project report across the desk.
His face was red with fury. "He humiliated me again! Adrian took everything from me-respect, business, opportunities!"
Daniel, standing calmly by his side, adjusted his glasses. His voice carried both patience and warning. "Peter, listen. Adrian plays with blood and fire-you can't defeat him alone. But if we strengthen alliances... we can choke him where it hurts."
Peter turned sharply. "What do you mean?"
Daniel leaned in, his tone measured. "The Davenport family. Christopher is eager to expand his reach into your sector. A marriage tie between Jennifer and Christopher would mean the merging of two noble houses. Financial power, political support-Adrian won't be able to fight against that union."
Peter hesitated, then clenched his fists. "Yes... by any means necessary. I'll make it happen."
Daniel's eyes narrowed slightly as he stepped closer. "Sir, Adrian Hale won't stop here. He's young, ambitious, ruthless... he'll tear apart anyone who stands in his way. If we want to protect Smith & Sons, we need someone who can stand strong beside you."
Peter sighed, rubbing his forehead. "And who do you think could do that, Daniel?"
There was a long pause before Daniel spoke. "Jason."
Peter looked up sharply, his expression softening at the name. "...Jason."
Daniel nodded. "Yes. He may be abroad right now, but he's one of the Smiths. Blood of your family. He has your sharpness and Katherine's warmth. And don't forget, he's Christopher Davenport's close friend. If he returns, not only will he help protect the business, but he can also smooth this marriage alliance between the Smiths and Davenports."
Peter sat back, visibly moved, murmuring almost to himself. "Jason... Katherine treated him like her own son. Sometimes, I feel he carries her soul with him."
That night, when the house had grown quiet, Peter sat in his study. With heavy breath and trembling hands, he picked up the phone and dialed a familiar overseas number.
"Uncle Peter!" Jason answered cheerfully, his voice warm and alive. "I was just thinking about you. How are you? How's Jenny?"
Peter's heart softened. His voice was a little choked. "We're... surviving, son. Jenny has grown into her mother's shadow. And me-well, I keep pretending to be strong." He gave a faint, broken chuckle.
Jason's tone gentled. "You don't have to pretend with me, Uncle. You've always been more of a father than an uncle."
Peter closed his eyes, overcome with emotion, then steadied himself. "You've grown into a fine man, Jason. I hear the food chain in the U.S. is thriving under your hands?"
Jason replied with modest pride. "It's been good. A lot of hard work, but... I keep thinking of how you and Aunt Katherine taught me never to give up. Every step feels like carrying you both with me."
Peter whispered Katherine's name under his breath, then his tone changed-heavy with urgency. "Jason... listen to me carefully. Your uncle needs you."
Jason fell quiet, then spoke with sudden seriousness. "...What's happened?"
Peter's voice was firm, though weighed with emotion. "Our family business is under threat. Adrian Hale... he's no ordinary rival. He's dangerous, determined. I can't fight this war alone anymore. You are my blood, Jason. You are one of the Smiths. Come home. Stand by me. Stand by our family."
There was no hesitation in Jason's reply. "Uncle... if you call me, I'll come. You raised me when I had no one. Now, if you say you need me, nothing in this world can hold me back. Book me on the first flight."
Peter's eyes welled with tears as he whispered, "That's my boy. Katherine would be so proud of you. Hurry, Jason... hurry home. The Smith family needs you now more than ever."