He clung to the belief that Beal, as the butler to the Moreno family, would fulfill his promise to protect his family.

Brian's smile was frosty as he speculated, "So, he assured you your family would be cared for in exchange for your services?"

Darrion's gaze flickered away. His denial was weak.

Brian scoffed, "You're quite the resolute one. You have two days to ponder. If you opt for silence, I'll demonstrate which holds more influence, a butler or the CEO of Hughes Group. Remember, Skrix may not be my territory, but disciplining a few individuals is quite trivial to me."

Observing Darrion's pallor, Brian's voice grew gentler.

"Listen, if you're ready to come clean, I can match what Beal promised you. Your daughter will have a position at any branches of Hughes Group post-graduation, and your wife's job will be safe."

At Brian's words, Darrion's mouth quivered, on the verge of bargaining. Beal's offer had included a hefty sum of money, too.

Yet, he suppressed the admission.

Revealing it would be to confess.

He'd nearly ended Brian's wife's life. It was a miracle Brian wasn't out for blood. How could he give him money?

Darrion chose silence, prompting Brian to abandon further effort.

Tapping the table sharply before rising, he advised, “Mull it over.

Don't let your actions rebound on your family."

Brian was certain his mix of threats and promises wouldn't leave Darrion unmoved.

He anticipated Darrion's betrayal of Beal.

As the police escorted Darrion away, his gaze was laden with remorse.

The revelation that Beal's target was influential blindsided him.

Why hadn't he been informed?

Was this some deceit?

Had he known, he'd never have dared take the job.