Chapter 270

Nathaniel Nelson, full name Nathaniel Nelson, was one of the earliest investors in the Landon Group, having invested alongside Sebastian. Aside from Sebastian, Nathaniel held the largest share in the company.

"If Mr. Nelson really decides to sell his shares, once the deal is done, the Landon Group will truly fall into Charles' hands." Jack's face was grim.

Vincent nodded in agreement. "Yes, that's why I decided to sell first. Not only to do Charles a favor, but also because I'm afraid that if Charles takes over the Landon Group, he might push out all the small shareholders like us. If that happens, the situation could spiral out of control."

Liam, clearly unaware of the situation, was shocked and took a while to process the information. He jabbed Vincent in the ribs and said, "Why didn't you tell me about something this big earlier?"

"I wanted to, but I was worried you'd stir up trouble and make it common knowledge."

"When have I ever stirred up trouble?"

"When haven't you?"

"You're impossible."

As Liam and Vincent were about to start bickering, Isabella stepped in, "Why is Mr. Nelson looking to sell his shares?"

Isabella had just learned from Jack that Nathaniel was one of the early backers of Sebastian. Back then, Sebastian had nothing to his name. Nathaniel was a significant figure in Sebastian's rise; without his investment, the Landon Group might not even exist today.

Given Nathaniel's foresight, it seemed contradictory that he would choose to sell his shares at this crucial moment.

Vincent replied, "I'm not entirely sure of the details, but it seems Mrs. Nelson is behind this decision."

Liam's face darkened. "I hate to say it, but if you can't stop Mr. Nelson, the Landon Group is as good as done for."

Jack escorted Liam and Vincent out, and Zaire said, "Why don't you sit down and have some water?"

He poured Isabella a cup of coffee while she sat down, holding the intricately textured cup, feeling at a loss. "Mr. Jose, do you know Nathaniel well?"

"I've had a few dealings with him, but I wouldn't say I know him deeply. Overall, Nathaniel gives off one clear impression."

"What's that?"

Zaire sipped his tea slowly, "He listens to his wife."

"And?"

Isabella found the notion of a henpecked husband too abstract. She needed more insight to strategize her approach with Nathaniel.

Having finished his coffee, Zaire glanced at his phone and stood up to leave. "You might want to talk to Sebastian. He knows Nathaniel better than I do. I've got to go now."

Zaire left in a hurry, and Isabella, hoping to catch Miley, found that Zaire was already out of sight.

"Always in such a rush," Isabella murmured to herself. As she turned around, she bumped into Quentin Black, who was exiting the adjacent room.

Quentin, a clean-cut man with a gentle demeanor like Sebastian, also gave off an impression of someone not to be underestimated. His mild appearance seemed to conceal another, more formidable side.

As Isabella was about to look away, Quentin gave her a friendly smile.

Not recognizing Quentin, Isabella returned the smile out of courtesy but said nothing more before turning and leaving.

As she walked away, another man emerged from the room-Michael.

"Mr. Black," Michael addressed Quentin with the same respect he showed Richard, though his attitude towards Quentin carried a tinge of resignation, unlike the genuine admiration he had for Richard.

As Michael emerged, Isabella had already left, so they missed each other. Noticing Quentin's gaze fixed in one direction, Michael glanced that way as well but saw nothing of interest.

When Michael turned his gaze back, he met Quentin's cold, penetrating stare.

Michael immediately lowered his eyes. "Mr. Black."

Quentin withdrew his gaze and asked, "When will Richard be here?"

"Richard called a moment ago," Michael said, "He's caught up with something unexpected and won't make it today. He mentioned that since you're back and won't be leaving soon, he will host you at another time to make amends in person."

Quentin smirked slightly, "Is that Richard's exact wording?"

Michael fell silent.

It wasn't Richard's exact words; the latter part was Michael's addition, meant to smooth things over. Clearly, it hadn't been very convincing.

Quentin said with a sneer, "No worries. You're right; I won't be going anywhere soon. There will be plenty of chances for him to host a meal and apologize in person."

Michael was at a loss for words.

He later relayed this to Richard.

Richard frowned. "Is that really what he said?"

"Yes," Michael nodded, his own worry evident, "Richard, Quentin's return feels different this time."

"In what way?" Richard asked.

"Before, he'd come back, do the usual checks and collections, and then leave. This time, though, he seems in no rush to go, hasn't been pushing for collections, and hasn't even visited the casino much," Michael said, his brow furrowed. "It's hard to put a finger on it, but something just feels off."

Richard was silent for a moment before instructing, "Have someone keep an eye on him."

"Alright," Michael agreed, then hesitated before adding, "But Richard, it might be best if you avoid the Jose family for now. I'm worried Ms. Johnson might find out about Nina."

"Keep your mouth shut," Richard said just as the driver pulled up to their destination.

Michael glanced out the window.

As soon as Richard advised against visiting the Jose family residence, the car stopped right in front of the Jose family's place.

Richard got out but didn't rush inside. He tapped on the car window and told Michael, "Sebastian's planning to make his move in three days. Have some people ready to assist."

Michael clicked his tongue, "Richard, we don't have any dealings with Sebastian. We already helped him with Isabella last time. Do we really need to get involved again?"

Richard gave him a sidelong glance. "What do you know?"

Michael smirked, "Oh, I understand perfectly. Your support for Sebastian is obviously because of Nina. She and Isabella are sisters, and that means you and Sebastian will be linked in the future."

Richard's eyes narrowed slightly, "You seem to know quite a bit."

Michael just chuckled, resting his arm on the window.

At that moment, Nina and Kelsey appeared, walking arm in arm. From a distance, Kelsey called out sweetly, "Richard's here!"

Richard turned around. The cold expression he had moments ago was replaced by a warm smile. He took Nina's hand and gave it a gentle squeeze, saying softly, "I'm here to pick up Nina. We have plans to go shopping today."

"Got it," Kelsey said, stepping back politely. "I won't keep you. Have a great time."

A few minutes later, Michael was dropped off, and the car drove away.