Zachary had no interest in the exact manner their partnership had begun, nor what other projects the

duo had launched together.

His only goal was to clarify whether or not Michael's dealings with the Gold family pertained to him.

Zachary placed the folder back onto the table and summoned Bruce to investigate.

Just as Bruce was about to depart after receiving his orders, the secretary returned with the news of a

Mr.

Brown requesting an audience with

Zachary.

Bruce switched the focus of the monitor to the surveillance camera overlooking the reception. Sure

enough, Michael was standing in wait.

Zachary ordered for Michael to be shown up at his office.

“Should I proceed with the investigation, Sir?” Bruce asked.

Zachary nodded. “Definitely. Inform me the second you find something.”

“Yes, Mr. Nacht.” Bruce departed smartly.

Not long after that, Michael was ushered up into Zachary's office. He appeared nervous and unsettled.

Zachary, on the other hand, was much more at ease as he gestured boisterously to the seats.

After reappearing with a cup of coffee for the guest, Lucy retreated tactfully into the shadows of the

room.

“To what do I owe the pleasure, Mr. Brown?” Zachary cut right to the chase.

Michael hesitated. “I was supposed to speak to Charlotte about this but she is currently abroad. She

told me to speak to you instead.”

“You might as well be honest with me. She'll fill me in anyway.” Zachary glanced at his watch. “I have

another meeting soon. You have ten minutes.”

“I'm sorry to have disturbed you.” It became evident to Michael that his appearance might have been

rather sudden. “I only wish to clarify myself.”

Zachary nodded encouragingly. “Feel free to speak your mind.”

“I have had business dealings with Gold Group, it's true, but I was not aware of their true intentions of

toppling Nacht Group. I put myself in touch with Ms. Gold when I found out. I didn't expect her to run

into trouble as well.”

Michael drew a deep breath before continuing. “As for the incident with Helena, I did think that you and

Charlotte were harsh to her. Jesse instigated the situation by coming to me, and with some provocative

words to force me to pitch the business proposal to Charlotte. Once I realized his ulterior motive, I cut

off ties with them immediately. I'd wanted to pull out my investment with them but it was too late. I am a

victim of the Gold family's actions too, Mr. Nacht, just as much as you. I apologize for my actions and

wish to impress upon you that I did not know that they were being done to your detriment. I am also

thankful that I didn't let it get out of hand. I came to you today because it was the right thing to do, not

because I feared your retribution. I knew that you would at least conduct your own investigation to

ascertain my involvement with the Golds before jumping to conclusions.”

Michael paused to draw breath again.

Michael stood up and sank into a deep bow.

“Thank you for saying all of that,” Zachary said with a gracious smile. “Charlotte has always spoken

highly of you. I hope that the friendship between the both of you blossoms into something that stands

the test of time.” Read at

“Thank you, Mr. Nacht.” Michael appeared thoroughly surprised.

“Goodbye, Mr. Brown.”