Chapter 495

Reginald Quincy clenched his fists.

His hawk-like gaze burned into the surveillance screen where Ethan Sullivan lounged carelessly in his chair as if on vacation rather than imprisoned.

"Chairman, the Laurent Group just withdrew two more projects," his assistant stammered.

A porcelain teacup shattered against the floor, dark liquid bleeding into the carpet.

Reginald stalked to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The glittering skyline of the city stretched before him, yet the Quincy Tower stood isolated—a sinking island in the night.

"Double Beatrice's security detail," he rasped. "Keep that madwoman Evelyn Laurent away from her."

The assistant hesitated. With Quincy Holdings' finances crumbling, diverting resources would be disastrous.

A violent cough wracked Reginald's body. Crimson blossoms stained his silk handkerchief.

"Chairman!"

"Get out."

When silence reclaimed the office, Reginald collapsed into his leather chair. The family portrait mocked him—Beatrice's radiant smile searing his conscience.

Midnight.

The basement door crashed open.

Ethan's lips curved as he opened his eyes. "An unexpected visit, Uncle Reginald. Bringing coffee?"

"Enough games," Reginald snarled, face ashen. "You're free to go."

Ethan stretched leisurely. "Where's Xander?"

"He's my son!" Reginald's roar shook the walls. "You've no right—"

With a shrug, Ethan settled back into his chair. "Then we'll continue our tea party."

Reginald kicked open the adjacent cell. "Get out!" he bellowed at Xander.

The younger Quincy emerged, his deadened eyes flickering to life at the sight of Ethan.

As they ascended the stairs, Ethan paused at the exit. His smile turned knife-sharp. "Let's hope you're still this spirited next time, Uncle."

Reginald watched their retreating backs until they vanished. His fist smashed into concrete, knuckles splitting open.

"Ethan Sullivan..." The name dripped with venomous hatred.

Outside Quincy Tower, Ethan tilted his head at the monolithic structure.

"The game has just begun," he murmured.

Xander stood silently behind him, shadows swirling in his unreadable gaze.