Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 1173

But then, Agnes had an epiphany. To secure the most confidential key to Albert’s Arms was, after all, going to require a solid pretext. Reggie seemed somewhat taken aback by her revelation.

"Do you really want to take over the operations at Albert’s Arms, Septima?" he asked.

Agnes, her back to Reggie, fixed her gaze on Kearney, her expression a blend of anger and frustration. But Kearney, with his gentle demeanor and the hint of a smile playing at his lips, seemed every bit the affable elder brother. Agnes’s fingers slowly clenched into fists. Kearney’s eyes met hers, his smile constant, yet beneath it lay an unfathomable darkness, a chill of deadly seriousness.

Agnes realized that to deny it now would be to openly declare war. But she couldn't afford to burn bridges. That key was important, but not more than her godfather's life. Biting her words out one by one, Agnes stated, "Big Brother is right. I aim to take over the ventures previously managed by Phenix. With all that has happened at Albert’s Arms, they are in dire need of leadership. Being a daughter to my godfather, it's only natural I contribute my efforts."

Reggie, however, sighed deeply. "Phenix has already turned out this way; you better stay clear of Albert’s Arms, Septima. Do what you love instead. Leave Albert’s Arms be."

Kearney’s expression remained unchanged, his smile as faint as ever. "Godfather is just being protective of Septima. But, godfather, I've already decided to retire. If I'm also out of the picture, someone needs to shoulder Albert’s Arms. While Naylor has been trying, she lacks the knack for business. Septima is the best choice right now. With Mr. Whitfield’s support... After all, he’s godfather’s own son, handing Albert’s Arms over to him…"

"Stop, I won't agree," Reggie interjected.

Kearney’s tone remained indifferent. "I understand what you're worried about, godfather. You hesitate to involve Septima and Mr. Whitfield with Albert’s Arms because of its murky dealings and the enemies it has made over the years. But isn’t your greatest wish to see Albert’s Arms legitimized? You’ve spent years nearly transforming it. Just by converting those underground gambling dens into legitimate venues and turning Eden Nights into a dining club, your lifelong dream would be realized. Leveraging the Tim Group’s influence could even accelerate this process. Godfather, I believe this is the best course of action."

Agnes stood silently to the side. Kearney’s words were grandiose. If Agnes hadn’t already been aware of his ulterior motives, she might have been convinced. His sincerity was so convincing, it was almost as if he was a professional actor. Perhaps it was his remarkable acting skills that had deceived their godfather for so many years. Agnes remained silent, not uttering a word.

Reggie then asked, "Second son, are you truly ready to retire?"

Kearney replied, "Godfather, I’m sorry, I’m tired and yearn for an ordinary life."

Reggie suddenly scoffed, "Retire? Are you really willing?"

Not just Kearney, but Agnes, too, was taken aback. The atmosphere in the room seemed to plummet instantly.

"Why would you say that, godfather?" Kearney asked.