Chapter 803

Nathan Blackwood slowly opened his eyes, his expression unreadable.

The silence stretched between them, making Adrian Blackwood fidget nervously. The power disparity between uncle and nephew was painfully obvious.

After an unbearable pause, Adrian finally cracked. "Grandfather Reginald approached me. He wants me to take your position, Uncle Nathan. You're in serious danger!"

Harrison remained motionless, merely raising an eyebrow.

Theodore Winslow barely managed to keep his composure. 'So blunt?' Nathan calmly lowered his gaze, showing no surprise. "And?"

Adrian's face twitched. "Well—"

Nathan's dark eyes locked onto his nephew.

"Your father's health is failing. He can't handle pressure. You're the only viable puppet Grandfather can use." Nathan's lips curled slightly. "Why should I be concerned?"

Adrian felt the insult like a physical blow. 'I came here in good faith! Is this how he treats family?' "Uncle Nathan! You're being—you're being completely unreasonable!"

A cold smile touched Nathan's lips. "Do you actually want my position? It's not impossible. If you side with Grandfather, you might have a shot—"

Nathan's words were deceptively mild.

The truth was stark—Reginald Blackwood's chances of success were practically nonexistent. Aligning with him would be political suicide. Worse, it would make Adrian Nathan's enemy.

Adrian couldn't fathom why his grandfather would start this power struggle in his twilight years. Just saying it aloud felt absurd.

And now Reginald wanted to drag Adrian into this mess? Was this some twisted punishment for living comfortably? Even if Adrian had the capability to replace Nathan—which he didn't—Blackwood Industries would collapse within weeks under his leadership.

Adrian had no death wish.

He looked at Nathan with desperation. "My father sent me to seek your advice. You know our branch of the family has no ambitions beyond enjoying life. We don't agree with Grandfather's schemes." His voice turned pleading. "You practically raised me, Uncle! You can't possibly cut me off from the Blackwood name!"

His thriving entertainment career depended entirely on the Blackwood connection. Without that backing, he'd be just another pretty face fighting for scraps.

Nathan remained impassive. At least Adrian and his father were smarter than he'd anticipated.

Seeing no reaction, Adrian panicked.

After a long silence, Nathan finally spoke. "What's in it for me?"

The question hit like a thunderclap. "Benefits?" Adrian gaped. "I'm the one coming to you with information! I'm surrendering! Have you got our roles reversed?"

Nathan sat perfectly still in his crisp white shirt and tailored black pants. His handsome face showed no emotion save for that chilling smile. "I didn't summon you. You came voluntarily."

The rules were simple—whoever begged first lost. And Nathan always made the rules.

Adrian felt his worldview shatter.

Harrison showed no reaction—this was standard behavior for Nathan Blackwood. Bargaining with him was pointless; no offer could tempt him.

Adrian swallowed hard, staring at his uncle.

Nathan truly lived up to his reputation as a ruthless businessman. Thank God Adrian had chosen surrender—any other path would have left him obliterated beyond recognition.