As the younger brother of his own family branch, Bennett had no right to comment on the affairs of the eldest. He wondered why his grandfather had summoned him. Surely it wasn't just to watch the drama unfold.

But when Karina saw Bennett, it was as if she had found a lifeline.

"Bennett, you're Nicola's uncle. You can't just stand by and do nothing! You casually spent over a hundred million on jewelry for Yvonne at an auction. Buying a trust fund for Nicola would be nothing to you. Haven't you always doted on her? If you're good to her now, she'll repay your kindness in the future..."

"That's enough!" Noah cut her off angrily before she could finish.

He couldn't believe she was now trying to take advantage of Bennett.

Back when Noah was at his lowest, it was his uncle, Frank, who had helped him. Out of trust, Frank had supported him all the way to his position as CEO of the Thompson Group.

Noah was a grateful man and had managed the company diligently all these years. Since Bennett was in the military and couldn't take over, Noah was dedicated to protecting the family business for his uncle and brother.

But here was Karina, coveting Bennett's money and shamelessly asking him to buy a trust fund for her daughter.

How would this look to Frank and Bennett? Would they think that he, Noah, also had designs on his brother's assets and wanted to take over the Thompson Group for himself?

Noah's face was pale with rage, his arm trembling as he pointed at Karina.

“I'll have my assistant send you the divorce papers. If you don't sign, I have plenty of ways to deal with the White family."

Noah had always been mild-mannered, but Karina had pushed him too far. He threw out the threat and turned to leave.

Karina remained frozen, crying with choked sobs.

Dana glared at her. "Are you not

leaving? Do you plan to continuen et

making a fool of yourself here?

don know what I did in a past life to deserve troublemaker like you

Dana dragged Karina away, and after they left, the estate finally fell quiet.

Mr. Thompson Sr.'s expression

softened slightly, but he turned aet

cold gaze on Tobias. "Your inability to manage your own household is a sign of your incompetence

Mr. Thompson Sr. was a stern father, so even at his age, Tobias still feared him.

In truth, Tobias couldn't be blamed for the mess his daughter-in-law's family had

made, but when his father scolded him, he could only accept the blame.

"Get Noah's divorce sorted out as soon as possible. That boy from the White family nearly dragged us down once before. Now he's into gambling, who knows what disaster he'll cause next. But ties with them quickly before you get tainted by their mess. If this affects Bennett's future, I'll hold you all responsible."

Mr. Thompson Sr.'s words were final.

He had been a soldier his whole life, and what he cared about most was the family's honor. Right now, nothing was more important than his grandson's promotion.

Tobias nodded repeatedly to show he understood, then left.

After everyone from the eldest branch had gone, Mr. Thompson Sr. called Bennett into his study.

The housekeeper brought two cups of tea into the room; it was Mr. Thompson Sr.'s favorite blend.

Bennett had no particular preference for tea. He picked up the cup, took a few sips, and asked, “Grandfather, was there something you wanted to see me about?"

Mr. Thompson Sr. held his teacup but didn't drink, his expression still grim. "My sources tell me Eden's in trouble again?"