Chapter 17

Caiden paused, uncertainty clouding his expression.

It wasn't fear of Daniela's defiance-she wouldn't dare cross him.

Rather,his reluctance stemmed from a recent public declaration he had made, cutting all ties with her. To seek her out now, after such a proclamation, would surely raise eyebrows.

What would everyone say about this?

Surely, they would label him as a conceited, self-centered man, desperate to maintain his grip on wealth and status.

His pristine reputation meant everything to him; the very idea of becoming fodder for idle gossip was utterly unbearable.

Throughout his life, Caiden had lingered in the shadow of Daniela's influential mother. Now, having finally liberated himself and taken command of his destiny,he was determined to steer clear of any further familial entanglements.

Nearby, Katrina observed his indecision with a keen eye, understanding that Caiden had no desire to comply with Joyce's demand.

The room fell silent for a long beat before Katrina's eyes brimmed with tears.

"This mess is entirely on me. When you took me as your wife, it was right after Daniela's mother had passed. All these years, Daniela has harbored resentment towards me, and rightfully so. I can't blame her-it's my fault for falling so deeply in love with you. I am to blame for everything. Joyce had no part in this, but Daniela's hatred for me has dragged her into the crossfire. Now, her business has been damaged. It's all my fault-every single problem stems from me. I'll face Daniela and apologize. If she won't accept it, I'll kneel and beg for her forgiveness.Sisters shouldn't be divided because of their parents 'sins." 3

Her face was streaked with tears as she rose to her feet.

Caiden grasped her hand, his own heart twisting at the sight of her distress. "Why apologize for the past? As her father, do I really need Daniela's approval to choose who I spend my life with?"

Caiden locked eyes with Joyce. "Joyce, you've always been the sensible one. Your sister's the one stirring up all the drama. Don't worry, I'll have a word with Daniela. Just give me a little time. Now, remind me,which floor were you considering for your new office?"

With a delighted grin, Joyce clapped her hands together. "Dad, I consulted a fortune-teller who recommended the 18th floor. It offers an incredible view and it's said to be lucky."

It was common knowledge in Olisvine that the 18th floor of the landmark building was the prime spot.

Yet Katrina's ambitions for Joyce stretched further.Snuggling closer to Caiden, she coaxed,"Joyce is no longer a little girl. She truly deserves her own space.I considered a villa for her, yet with Daniela yet to acquire one, it seems only fair that Joyce waits her turn.However, now that Daniela owns an entire building, why don't we gift Joyce the 18th,19th,and 20th floors? It would give her a suitable home of her own. Surely, we don't want rumors floating around that she is still nesting at home in her twenties,right?"

Joyce's eyes lit up with excitement, her jaw dropping slightly as Katrina's bold proposal sank in.

The Luxor Tower stood as Olisvine's pinnacle of luxury,with each floor valued immensely.

The floors from the 18th to the 20th were especially prized, each valued at over a hundred million dollars Acquiring these would not just mnean a lavish residence;it would be akin to receiving a windfall of three hundred million dollars.

Such wealth could catapult her into the upper echelons of society.

Quietly applauding her mother's strategy with a discreet thumbs-up, Joyce then turned to Caiden,her voice oozing with honeyed charm.

"Dad, considering Daniela's immense wealth,parting with just three floors should hardly dent her resources,right? Plus, I am your daughter as well. If I ascend socially, wouldn't that reflect gloriously on the Harper family?"

With a subtle tilt of her head, Katrina moved closer,her words soft yet deliberate. "Caiden, the girls are all grown up now. It's not sensible to keep them cooped up at home. Plus, Daniela is flush with cash and could really benefit from having a sharp sister like Joyce by her side. It's beneficial for both of them. Moreover,isn't it within your power to make such decisions for your daughter?"

These words startled Caiden into action. He stood abruptly, his voice filled with incredulity. "As her father, am I not entitled to the ultimate decision?Would Daniela actually challenge my authority? She wouldn't dare oppose me. Just wait-I'm calling her this very moment." He glanced towards Joyce, seeking confirmation."18th, 19th, and 20th floors, correct?" Joyce's eyes gleamed with anticipation, and she nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, Dad! Just those floors!"

The sheer intensity of her excitement was impossible to miss.

The moment Caiden stepped away to make the call,Joyce wrapped Katrina in a heartfelt hug,her face lit up with an exuberant smnile. "Mom! We're about to be filthy rich. Three entire floors are going to be mine.I never in my life thought this could happen. And the moment I move in, I'll make Daniela's life a living hell every single day."

Katrina, with her arms folded and exuding authority,observed Caiden's silhouette in the garden. "Don't worry, my dear. I have everything in hand. You're the crown jewel of the Harper family.Whatever you desire,I'll ensure Caiden provides it for you."

Joyce, overflowing with happiness and pride,embraced Katrina firmly. "Thank you, Mom!"