Chapter 9
495words
Ethan's expression darkened. He fixed Gregory with an icy stare. "Brother, you speak as if I've already inherited the family business."
"You—!" Gregory slammed his fist on the table, face reddening.
"Enough!" Old Mr. Holt cut in. "Ethan, your brother only wants to help. The power struggles within Holt Corp are intensifying. You can't maintain your position alone."
He paused, turning his calculating gaze on me.
"You're a married man now. You must think of your family. If something happens to your position, how will you provide for your wife?"
He was clearly using me to manipulate Ethan.
My heart sank as contemptuous glances surrounded me. I wished the floor would open up and swallow me whole.
Ethan took my hand under the table and squeezed it gently—a silent reassurance.
He looked directly at his grandfather, his gaze unwavering. "I'll provide for my wife myself. As for Holt Corp, I have my own strategies."
"Strategies?" Greg sneered. "You can barely walk. What strategies could you possibly have? Don't tell me you're planning to let your replacement bride help run the company?"
Everyone around the table snickered.
Their laughter dripped with mockery—for both me and Ethan.
Vivian covered her mouth delicately, shoulders shaking with barely contained laughter.
[Ding! Target's Villain Meter increased by 3%! Current Villain Meter: 80%!]
I felt Ethan tense beside me, the air around him practically crackling with suppressed rage.
I took a deep breath and found my voice.
"That's unfair, sir."
Every eye at the table swiveled to me—including Ethan's.
Despite my hammering heart, I continued: "While my husband has physical limitations, his intellect and business acumen remain unmatched. As for me…"
I paused, meeting Gregory's contemptuous stare. "Though I may be a replacement bride, I was raised and educated as a Sullivan. If my husband needs support, I'm more than capable of providing it."
The dining room fell into stunned silence.
No one had expected the timid replacement bride to challenge Gregory Holt directly.
Gregory's face turned ashen with rage. "You're just a naive girl. What could you possibly know? You think you're qualified to meddle in Holt Corporation affairs?"
"With all due respect," I replied, my voice steadier than I felt, "since I've married into this family, I am a Holt now. I have every right to be concerned about family matters."
"Besides," I raised my chin slightly, meeting Greg's glare, "didn't you just say Holt assets shouldn't fall into outsiders' hands? As Mrs. Ethan Holt, I am hardly an outsider."
Gregory was struck speechless, his face contorting with barely contained fury.
[Ding! Target's Affection Points +15! Current Affection Points: -50!]
[Ding! Target's Villain Meter decreased by 8%! Current Villain Meter: 72%!]
Ethan squeezed my hand under the table, his touch saying what words couldn't—I've got you.
He looked directly at Greg, his voice quiet but carrying undeniable authority.
"Regarding Holt Corporation, I have matters well in hand. Your concern is unnecessary."
