Chapter 20
“I want Mercy Center, which is owned by the Sinclair family,” Avery replied calmly.
Howard’s face froze at her words.
The Sinclair family had built their fortune in the herbal medicine trade before Howard expanded into real estate, jewelry, and other ventures. Mercy Center had been William’s pride
a symbol of his hard work and success.
While the business itself didn’t mean much to Howard, the rare and valuable herbs left by William were another story; he often relied on those herbs to build alliances. In fact, he had once used an exceptionally rare Snow Frost Root to arrange Avery’s engagement to Clyde.
Had Jimmy survived, he would be the person in charge of the Smith family now instead of Joshua. But things hadn’t gone that way, which had always irked Howard.
Seeing Howard hesitate, Avery shrugged and moved toward the car. Howard panicked, calling after her, “Fine, if you want it, it’s yours.”
He thought to himself that he could simply empty the place of its valuable contents and leave her with a hollow shell. But Avery raised an eyebrow, catching his intent. “I know exactly what Grandpa left in there. Don’t try anything sneaky.
Howard’s expression darkened with frustration, and he was unable to hide his anger. He wanted to lash out, but under Joshua’s watchful eye, he kept his composure. “I’m your father -why would I deceive you?”
Avery shrugged nonchalantly,
Joshua’s gaze flickered with irritation toward Howard but softened when he looked at Avery. If it’s what you want, I’ll have someone acquire it for you. Write down a list of what’s inside, and I’ll ensure you get every item.”
Avery’s face lit up, and without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around his neck and planted a quick kiss on his cheek. “I knew you’d take care of me, darling!”
Joshua’s eyes held a hint of exasperation. He had learned to expect her little theatrics by now.
While Joshua appeared amused, Howard was sweating when he realized Joshua was serious. The Smith family couldn’t be taken lightly. It might be easier to simply agree now than face potential fallout later. Joshua might even look upon him more favorably if he handled this smoothly.
With a forced cheer, Howard stepped forward. “Avery, I just don’t want you taking on too much too soon at such a young age. But if you insist, I’ll give you Mercy Center. Why don’t you go see your mother and Avery? They’d like to apologize to you.”
Avery stifled a laugh. Apologize? More like they were waiting for her to show up so that they
Chapter 20
could plot against her. But now that she had secured what she wanted, she didn’t mind entertaining their little act.
2/2
She smiled sweetly at Joshua. “Darling, I’ll go check in on them. You go on ahead with work.‘
་་
She caught a flicker of unease on Howard’s face. Joshua, however, didn’t let go of her hand. ” I’ll come with you.”
He turned to Delcan. “Go pick up some cream for Mrs. Smith.”
Avery shook her head quickly, but when Joshua’s eyes flashed with warning, she gave in. “You don’t need to buy it. Go to the traditional medicine clinic, and there’s a small red bottle on the bottom shelf. Just bring that.”
