Chapter 734

That was the first time Daniela met Hamilton.

At seventy, he exuded vitality, his hair full and strikingly devoid of grey.

The only hint of his age was his reliance on a cane for stability as he exited his vehicle.

His eyes, both sharp and discerning, instantly found Daniela across the courtyard.

Their gazes met and held from afar.

With an air of sophistication, Hamilton's face broke into a smile. Charles rushed to his side, offering support while addressing him respectfully, "Father."

Hamilton acknowledged him with a simple grunt, his focus still intensely on Daniela.

Approaching her, Hamilton said, "Daniela, to finally meet you does justice to your renowned elegance."

With a slight smile, Daniela responded courteously,"Hello, Mr.McCoy."

Noticing Charles' evident nervousness, Hamilton's demeanor turned stern. "Still so useless."

Surprisingly, Charles collapsed to his knees at his father's harsh words.

Hamilton's firm hand in family matters was unmistakably evident.

Observing Charles on the floor and then back at Hamilton, Daniela noted the dynamics at play.

Hamilton's smile returned as he addressed her."Sorry, my son has made a fool of himself."

Despite Hamilton's commanding aura, Daniela maintained her poise, her smile unwavering and composed.

Hamilton's gaze toward Daniela grew more appreciative. "I heard Cedric is here. I would like an introduction." Initially, there was a touch of geniality in his voice.Then, his gaze turned to the kitchen.

The kitchen had a large, transparent sliding door that made its interior entirely visible from the outside.

There, Hamilton caught sight of the son he had always pictured as a perfect elite, now grounded in a more domestic role.

Clad in a neatly tailored apron, Cedric expertly handled a chef's knife, cutting a simple cucumber into slices so precise they resembled art.

A profound quiet settled across the living room at that moment.

From the kitchen, Cedric's voice carried over."This knife traveled with me from home. I had it specifically tailored for my hand. It's wonderfully precise, and the quality of the blade is exceptional."

Hamilton's expression soured at these words.

Charles, still on his knees, shut his eyes, anticipating his father's outrage. Yet, Hamilton's response was unexpectedly mild,albeit disapproving. "Why would a man waste his time in the kitchen?"

Daniela, quick to defend Cedric's choice, responded with composed assurance, "If it brings him joy, then it is worthwhile."

Hamilton's gaze lingered on Daniela, his smile tightening slightly. "It seems he has picked up some peculiar habits abroad. A McCoy should not merely become whatever he pleases."

Back in her own country, Daniela might not have intervened, confident in Cedric's ability to defend himself. However, being overseas heightened her protective instincts towards Cedric.

Daniela retorted, "He's my husband. His choices require only my approval, not anyone else's."

At her statement, not just Charles, who remained kneeling, but also Hamilton's secretary turned to look at Daniela.

Despite her delicate appearance, she displayed formidable courage. She boldly challenged Hamilton,standing firm in her position.

Hamilton scrutinized Daniela's face. "l've been informed that you two are divorced."

"That's the current rumor, is it?" Daniela asked."Well, until he signs the divorce agreement, it holds no weight. I'm quite sure he won't sign it, though."

Hamilton's laughter followed her assertion. "You're that sure of yourself?"

Daniela simply nodded in affirmation.

Hamilton's expression twisted into a sardonic smile."Women cling to emotions, believing that capturing a man's heart is akin to conquering the world.Yet men aspire beyond, forever chasing more. Cedric is just like the rest. If I offer him enough wealth, he might change his mind about not divorcing you. And if he disagrees, it just means I don't offer enough."

Daniela's smile gleamed with assurance, outshining Hamilton's skepticism. "We shall see, won't we?" At that moment, the kitchen door slid open. Clad in a black apron and gripping his bespoke knife, Cedric called out, "Beef for lunch sound good?"

"Perfect," Daniela responded.

Cedric walked back into the kitchen, acting like he hadn't seen Charles on his knees or Hamilton standing there the whole time.

"Apologies," Daniela said, her voice devoid of any real regret. "My husband isn't acquainted with any of you. In his world, I'm all that matters. Should that discomfort you..."

Charles was expecting Daniela to offer a compromise, perhaps suggesting, "If that bothers you,I'll have him adjust."

However, Daniela's next words took a different turn."Then it's something you might néed to adapt to."

Hamilton's pleasant demeanor suddenly stiffened.

He paused for a beat, then, with a clenched jaw, he said coldly, "Would it be alright if I joined you for