The door to Shane Prescott's office had just closed.

Vincent Valentine immediately turned and headed toward Victor Sullivan's workspace.

A secretary informed him that Chairman Sullivan was in a meeting and would be unavailable for another half hour.

Settling onto the leather sofa in the waiting area, Vincent cradled a celadon teacup while his gaze swept across the expansive office.

Floor-to-ceiling windows framed the most bustling CBD skyline in the capital. Sunlight streamed through the glass curtain walls, gilding the priceless golden nanmu desk with a radiant glow.

Vincent's fingers absently traced the rim of his cup.

Both were Sullivan sons, yet Shane's workspace paled in comparison to this—like night and day.

He rose and wandered to the bookshelf, pulling out a gold-embossed English edition at random.

A faded photograph fluttered to the floor.

It showed a young Victor in Oxford academic robes, his handsome face brimming with youthful ambition.

Vincent's Adam's apple bobbed.

The image reminded him of his own past—how he'd never qualified for university, relying instead on special talents to enter the system.

"Apologies for the wait, Mr. Valentine."

Victor's voice came from behind.

After exchanging pleasantries, Vincent cut to the chase: "Our department has land for joint development—half for staff housing, half commercial properties."

Victor listened to the details, then nodded after brief consideration.

The project's margins were modest, but Shane's involvement made it worthwhile.

As Victor escorted him out, they encountered Adrian Sullivan in the hallway.

"And this is?" Adrian's eyes flicked over Vincent with calculated interest.

Victor made cursory introductions.

Adrian's smile never reached his cold eyes.

Five days later.

Victor led his team to inspect the Special Ops Unit's facilities.

Adrian materialized just as the elevator doors opened.

"Father, I happen to be free—shall I join you?" His harmless grin belied his sharp gaze.

Victor frowned but didn't object.

The unit's compound was more remote than expected.

Passing through stringent security checkpoints, Victor discreetly observed the personnel.

Aside from a few exceptionally built individuals, most appeared ordinary.

"Family!"

Vincent welcomed them enthusiastically before ushering the group to meet Director Jason Evans.

In the conference room, Adrian held forth effortlessly, spouting technical jargon with practiced ease.

Shane remained silent throughout.

Vincent glared pointedly at his son-in-law, who ignored him completely.

"The Sullivan heir certainly impresses," Director Evans praised Adrian. "We'll entrust this project to your team."

During the return drive, Vincent seethed: "That bastard's overstepping! You're the legitimate heir!"

Shane's grip tightened on the steering wheel. "Victor advised discretion."

"Why?"

"This project isn't worth my involvement."

At dinner, Adrian charmed Director Evans into hearty laughter.

Vincent pushed food around his plate, appetite gone.

Home at last, he complained to his daughter: "That Adrian is insufferable!"

After hearing the details, Luna Valentine smirked. "In the northwest, he nearly killed Shane."

Vincent's expression darkened instantly.

Alone in his study, he dialed a long-unused number: "I need a setup arranged. Name your price."