The Billionaire’s Secret Quartet novel Chapter 1600

Lysander caught the sly twinkle in Payton's eye, his handsome face a mask of cool depth and his gaze unfathomably dark. He had seen through Payton's intentions long ago.

David had been aware of Payton's ambitions for a while now, knowing that Payton yearned to take over Lysander's role. That's why David was so eager to have Lysander return to the Sinclair Group, hoping a venture into the jewelry business would restore him to his CEO status.

Listening to what Payton had said to Zephyr earlier, David's tension was palpable, his grip on the wheelchair tightened subconsciously.

Under the varied gazes of Payton and Zephyr, Lysander finally spoke, "All is well, no need for concern."

His answer held a double meaning. It could address Zephyr's genuine worry, as well as counter Payton's feigned concern.

"That's a relief," Zephyr exhaled.

Payton's smile faltered momentarily, though he quickly recovered, saying, "Yeah, good to hear. But, how about your leg? Did the doctors mention when you might be up and walking?"

"No word," Lysander replied tersely, not looking at Payton but turning to Zephyr, "Grandpa, what brings you here?"

"I wanted to be here when you got back, to find out firsthand how you're doing," Zephyr answered.

Payton clearly felt the cold shoulder from Lysander and, sensing he was unwelcome, didn't linger. Standing up, he said, "Alright then, rest up. There's a pile of work waiting for me at the office, I better head back."

As Payton passed by Lysander, he suddenly stopped, turned back, and said, "Oh, by the way, I heard you and David are launching a jewelry line under the Sinclair Group's name? Jewelry market's tough these days. Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew. The Sinclair Group won’t be there to catch you if you fall..."

After Payton's words, Lysander's eyes flashed with sharp anger. Payton, catching the icy fury in those eyes, felt a twinge of fear but was mostly smug, his lips curling into a slight grin before he turned to leave.

Passing by David, he gave him a warning glance. Payton knew the real reason behind David and Lysander's jewelry venture: it was a play to restore Lysander to his rightful place at the helm of the Sinclair Group.

That position, once coveted by his son but never attained, was now his. How could he possibly give it up so easily? Even to fulfill his son's last wish, he wouldn't hand over the CEO title back to Lysander!

After Payton left, Zephyr let out a deep sigh, setting his teacup down on the coffee table, suddenly losing the taste for tea. He wasn't at all surprised by Payton's words to Lysander. He had known Payton's intentions all along.

Never having had a taste of the good life, one might not miss it, but Payton had savored the sweet nectar of power and pleasure that comes with being at the top. How could he step down so easily? Once a man's desires are unleashed, they're hard to rein back in.

"Lysander, don't rush yourself. What you need to focus on now is getting your leg back in shape, standing on your own two feet again," Zephyr comforted Lysander.

"Whether I stand or not, it makes no difference to cousin," Lysander responded.