Chapter 826

The bidding war centered on a newly discovered mine.

Given the negative impact of the last auction had caused and the information relayed by Damon,Hamilton was hell-bent on securing the win this time.

Without hesitation, he shouted a bid five times above the opening price.

The organizers didn't even pause before announcing the winner: McCoy Group.

Hamilton froze, dumbstruck. In his mind, Daniela would try all means to secure this bid.

Yet, when he stole a look at her bid, he nearly choked.One dollar!

Alexander and the secretary gawked in disbelief, both realizing Hamilton had been played by his own son.

If Damon hadn't secretly leaked that Daniela was eyeing the mine, Hamilton never would have bid sO recklessly.

Damon had set up his own father. Ironically, he sat there, scowling in frustration, blaming Hamilton for forcing him into finding Daniela's weakness.

Utterly humiliated, Hamilton stormed out, his fury leaving a trail in his wake.

That day, the city was humming with gossip.

"Did you hear about Hamilton's bid today? What was he'thinking?"

"He threw five billion at a mine that's barely worth a fifth of that. I know the McCoy family prints money, but losing four billion in one shot? Insane!"

"What's gotten into him lately? The man was always steady as a rock. Today he looked completely rattled."

"Maybe it's because of Daniela. Word is she showed up at the auction too, and she only bid a dollar." "Seriously? That's priceless! Daniela offered a single buck, and Hamilton lost his mind. It's ridiculous!"

"Hamilton's losing his edge. Daniela's got him completely outclassed."

The next morning, McCoy Group's stock nosedived. For the first time in his storied career, Hamilton stood before the shareholders and admitted his blunder. His apology hung in the air, tense and uncharacteristically humble.

One shareholder flashed a polite smile. "Come on, Hamilton, it's only four billion. We'll survive."

Another echoed with a grin, "Exactly. What's a few billion among friends?"

Laughter rippled through the room, a chorus of rich amusement at his expense.

At first, Hamilton sat quietly, a hint of relief softening his stern features-years of relentless work finally seemed to be paying off.

But then, the mood in the room shifted.

"Hamilton, you're almost seventy now, aren't you?"

"You son already has his own child."

"To be honest, most people your age would've retired. You're still here, carrying all this weight."

"Life's meant to be enjoyed, Hamilton. If you're tired, maybe it's time to step down."

"Cedric seems like a natural successor."

"And with Cedric and Daniela working together, the company could thrive. Daniela's a genius at making money-let her handle things while we all relax!"

Laughter rippled around the table, everyone grinning with delight as if a long-awaited celebration had finally arrived.

"So, Hamilton, what do you think?"

Hamilton's lips curled into a scornful sneer. "Sure, I can retire." Everyone's face brightened instantly.

Hamilton continued, "But | wonder-if Daniela ever discovered the explosion and her mother's death were both connected to McCoy Group, would she still be making money for you?"

The room froze. Every trace of laughter vanished, replaced by a heavy, suffocating silence.

Only the quiet clatter of the secretary's keyboard filled the void.

Out of nowhere, a thunderous roar burst from Hamilton's chest. "Don't record this part!"

The outburst jolted everyone, and the secretary,startled, instinctively pressed save. She lifted her head,adjusting her glasses, meeting Hamilton's glare with wide-eyed confusion.