The Reclaimed Rose (Annalise and Steven)

When Carlisle heard Douglas' question, he asked in annoyance, "Why? Are you here to laugh at my misery?" "Of course not!"

Douglas was patient. Even though Carlisle was rude, Douglas chuckled and asked, "Well, didn't you invest a lot of money into our collaborative project? I know you said you don't want the money anymore, but I still think it's best to return it to you." Then, Douglas repeated what Zane had told Douglas in his own words. Douglas said, "It's not a lot of money, so it may not be much help, but this is the best I can do."

With a stern tone, Carlisle asked, "Did Mr. Huxham tell you to do this?"

Surprised, Douglas asked, "You could tell?"

"It's because I know you... If you see me suffer, you would only stand and laugh at my misery," Carlisle said awkwardly.

Douglas didn't refute either.

Carlisle continued, saying, "Tell Mr. Huxham I thank him for his help. Also, thank you."

Before Douglas could say anything, Carlisle hung up.

...

Carlisle gazed blankly at his ceiling as he sunk onto his couch.

that his competitors had made numerous

been overly confident, and he never noticed the problem. In fact, he often thought that Zane had

this time, Carlisle was determined to improve his products and plan to operate

of this

true colors of the

and get on his good side. But when his business began to decline, people scrambled to

him. There wasn't anyone who genuinely intended to help

thought he should start building his own alliances. He didn't want to fall into another helpless

knocked on the

Carlisle said, "Come in."

the room and asked, "Were you asking

son of the Winslow family, Carlisle

Shane, his appointed heir.

Shane to grow quickly and become independent. Only then, Carliste could be relieved

"Starting today, stop messing around. Come back and work in the

I'm not interested

As Carlisle watched Shane's