Chapter 874
Evelyn's words made everyone turn their attention to Reginald Blackwood.
As the patriarch of the Blackwood family, his influence remained undeniable. Even though he had stepped down from Blackwood Industries, his authority still commanded respect.
Tonight, he was the eldest and most distinguished figure present—naturally, the center of attention.
Nathan stood silently in the shadows, unusually subdued. No one seemed to notice his uncharacteristic quietness.
Reginald glanced around, satisfied with the turnout.
He straightened his posture, his sharp eyes gleaming with triumph as he strode forward.
All eyes followed him as he took his place.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he began, voice ringing with authority, "it is an honor to have you here tonight. I'm sure you're all wondering about the purpose of this gathering."
His gaze swept across the crowd before settling on Nathan, who stood near a wine cabinet, lazily swirling a glass of red wine.
Nathan's expression was unreadable—cool, detached, indifferent.
He didn't react.
Reginald's smile deepened, edged with something ruthless.
He raised his voice.
"I have decided to transfer twenty percent of my shares, along with the proxy holdings of Blackwood Industries' subsidiaries, to Pacific Crest International!"
Gasps erupted.
Evelyn and Preston exchanged stunned looks. Her eyes flicked to Nathan, but he remained motionless, his face betraying nothing.
With Reginald's shares and the proxies combined, Pacific Crest would control nearly thirty percent of Blackwood Industries.
This was both a blessing and a curse.
Reginald had just handed Nathan a formidable adversary. From now on, every major decision would require Pacific Crest's approval.
A masterstroke of cruelty.
Reginald savored the shock in the room before continuing.
"Pacific Crest International is a globally renowned corporation, one whose vision aligns perfectly with Blackwood Industries. Though I have stepped back, I want our company to evolve—stronger, more competitive. With Pacific Crest as our partner, we will stride boldly into the future!"
The rest of his speech was filled with lofty rhetoric.
When he finished, silence hung heavy in the air.
Then, someone started clapping—Harrison, likely.
The applause spread, though it felt hollow.
Preston leaned in, voice low. "Pacific Crest? Reginald would rather hand the company to outsiders than let his own grandson take control. Vicious."
Evelyn wasn't entirely surprised. This was exactly the kind of ruthless move Reginald would make.
Still, it left a bitter taste.
"Reginald has always been a tyrant," she murmured. "He'd never tolerate being reined in by Nathan. Pacific Crest has deep pockets and an even deeper reach. Once they sink their teeth into Blackwood Industries, they won't let go easily."
She knew firsthand how aggressive Pacific Crest could be. During her time abroad, she'd seen them swallow entire companies whole.
A pang of sympathy struck her.
What must it feel like to be betrayed by your own blood?