Her chest rose and fell rhythmically with heavy breaths.

“Was your entire motive to destroy my father's company?"

Guilt weighed heavy on Barlow's heart.

Memories from the past flooded his mind.

Their first encounter was in a crowded bar, where a drunken brute wouldn't let go of her.

He stepped in, only to realize she was the out-of-wedlock child of Sun Group's head honcho.

To fulfill his own mission, he got close to her.

He maintained a cordial relationship with her, not out of affection but because it served his purpose. And while he remained indifferent, she developed feelings for him.

However, he didn't manipulate her to bring down her father's empire.

Her father's own malpractices had been his undoing, leading to his imprisonment.

“Can't you speak up?" Kennedi was wielding a dagger now, her gaze unwaveringly fixed on Barlow.

Despite the blade in her hand, Barlow's expression didn't change.

“Kennedi, if you think ending my life will give you some peace, go ahead."

He wasn't interested in justifying himself anymore. After all, her father was behind bars due to his actions.

Despite her illegitimate status, she had shared a close bond with her father.

Perhaps, she blamed herself for his downfall.

Kennedi's hatred towards Barlow wasn't surprising.

"Don't mistake my hesitation for fear. I could kill you for exploiting my emotions, and causing my father's downfall. I detest you!" Kennedi's words rang out, her anger punctuated by the dagger aimed at his heart.

With a steady gaze, Barlow took her hand gently.

"Kennedi, let me assist you."

In the next instant, the blade found its mark, sinking into Barlow's chest.

Kennedi's almond eyes went wide.