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Chapter_254
Olivia, ever composed, responded tacitly, “The Lane family? What happened?”
She already knew the answer, of course. In fact, she had even assisted Nash in dealing with the situation. Walter’s motives remained unclear, and she knew better than to take his words at face value. She had to tread carefully.
Walter, however, didn’t miss a beat. He reached into his briefcase, which had been resting on the chair beside him, and retrieved a folder. “This document contains the development rights to Wallis District. I outbid your father for it because I’ve always had an interest in the area.”
Olivia’s gaze immediately shifted toward the document Walter held. The mention of Wallis District sent a wave of memories rushing back. Her grandparents had lived there for nearly three decades. When her grandfather retired, her father had planned to use the development rights for the land to build a mansion for himself, where he could peacefully enjoy his retirement. But Walter had outbid him, purchasing the rights for a staggering three billion dollars.
Her grandfather’s health had deteriorated rapidly, and Nash had told her that he had no more than two years left to live. It would bring her father and grandfather great joy if she could acquire those rights now.
Olivia’s sharp mind worked quickly. “The development rights and deed for Wallis District are worth over six billion dollars. You wouldn’t give them away for nothing, would you, Mr. Watson?”
As the CEO of Drake Group, Olivia was no stranger to negotiations, especially after working closely with Theo. Her gaze was calm, and her voice steady, though internally, she was keenly aware of how crucial this conversation was.
Walter, sensing her wariness, leaned forward slightly, his tone taking on a more serious note. “Mr. Lee and I have known each other for thirty years. Our friendship goes beyond something as trivial as a development project.”
Olivia didn’t flinch, her smile never wavering. “I’m not a young girl anymore, Mr. Watson. Please stop beating around the bush. If you want to talk business, let’s get to the point.”
Walter nodded, a knowing look in his eyes, before lowering his voice. “I just need some clarification on something… Was Nash Calcraft tending to Mr. Lee at the Chateau Hotel last night?”
Olivia’s heart skipped, but she remained unshaken. “Yes, that’s right. Mr. Calcraft spent the entire night at the Chateau Hotel.”
She hadn’t expected this question. While she had anticipated inquiries from the Lane family or the Green Bamboo Association, she hadn’t considered that Walter would be one of those to dig into Nash’s whereabouts. But she was ready for it. Nash had prepared her for these moments, and she wasn’t about to betray him. She would not expose his secrets, no matter who asked.
Walter observed her reaction closely, and his suspicion grew. Her answer came so quickly, so smoothly, it almost seemed rehearsed. It was as though she had anticipated this very question and had already decided on her response.
“Don’t worry,” Walter said, his tone becoming lighter. “I have nothing to do with the Lane family or the Green Bamboo Association. I’m here because of my good-for-nothing grandson.”
Olivia’s curiosity piqued as Walter continued. “I’m sure you know about the drama between Kai and Helena. The two women aren’t on good terms, and Kai has found himself caught up in their strife. His love for the daughter of the Lewis family has dragged him deeper into the mess than I ever expected.” Walter’s voice faltered, and a tear slipped down his cheek. “I thought it was just petty bickering, but now, things have escalated… I didn’t think it would get this serious.”
Olivia’s brows furrowed in thought, but she said nothing. She had heard of Kai and Helena’s tumultuous relationship, though she didn’t realize the full extent of the damage it had caused. Kai’s impulsive nature had always been his downfall.
Walter wiped the tear from his cheek. “Kai’s mother was from a rural part of the country, and I never approved of her marrying my son. It’s my fault. My opposition to their marriage led to their deaths, and I’ve been trying to make it up to Kai ever since, but I’ve failed to erase the hatred he harbors toward me.”
Walter’s voice cracked, and his eyes became misty with emotion. “Now, Kai has gone and angered Nash. As his grandfather, I can’t stand by and watch him ruin his future. Please, Olivia, help us.”
Walter’s words hung heavy in the air. Olivia could sense the desperation behind his plea. She hadn’t expected to see Walter, the country’s richest man, bowing and groveling before her. And yet, there he was—on his knees, seeking her help. The weight of the moment was not lost on her.
Olivia immediately moved to help Walter stand up. “Mr. Watson, you don’t have to do that,” she said, trying to ease the situation.
Walter stood with her assistance, his tear-streaked face a mixture of gratitude and sorrow. “Nash can punish Kai however he wishes. I just want him to spare my grandson’s life.”
Olivia hesitated, her mind whirling with conflicting emotions. The history between her family and the Watsons ran deep. Her grandfather and Walter had been close friends for decades. The Lee family had been small and inconspicuous before Olivia’s marriage to Theo, but the Watsons had given her family numerous opportunities to expand and grow their influence. She felt a sense of duty to honor their connection, but at the same time, she couldn’t ignore the complexities of the situation.
Finally, she sighed and spoke softly. “I’ll ask Nash for his opinion.”
Walter’s face lit up with relief, and tears of gratitude once again filled his eyes. “Thank you… Thank you so much…”
Despite his vast wealth and status, Walter’s vulnerability in this moment was striking. He was the richest man in the country, yet here he was, bowing to Olivia—pleading for her help. The irony of it wasn’t lost on her.