Chapter 26 

I couldn’t understand why my father, who had always been healthy, suddenly fell ill. Why hadn’t he ever told me? 

Smack! 

I slapped myself hard. 

The doctor said his fall was severe–so severe that there was currently no hope of him waking up. He was surviving only because of the machines, clinging to life while we waited for a miracle. 

“What should I do… 

Smack! 

Caroline, what kind of daughter are you? 

Smack! 

I slapped myself again and again, but the sting on my face was nothing compared to the ache in my 

heart. 

What if my father never wakes up? 

What happens to the company? 

I hadn’t even secured my footing yet. I hadn’t repaid his sacrifices, hadn’t proven my ability to him… 

The words of my uncle and the shareholders replayed in my mind, their gloating expressions 

tearing me apart. 

Suddenly, the sound of polished leather shoes echoed through the hallway. 

Click… click… 

The steps stopped right in front of me. A pair of expensive, familiar shoes stood before me. 

A coat, carrying a scent I knew all too well, was draped over my head. 

And then, a pair of arms wrapped around me. 

90.8% 

Get it out. Cry.” 

was Callan. 

I closed my eyes helplessly, but no tears came. 

I knew crying wouldn’t solve anything. 

Every company has its internal strife, and Howard Group was no exception. 

Before joining the company, I’d promised my father that I would work hard–not only to lead Howard Group to greater heights but also to root out the parasites hiding within. 

But now, it seemed plans never kept up with reality. 

I wasn’t strong enough yet, and I’d already become the target of those parasites. 

After a long silence, Callan still didn’t hear me cry. 

He opened his mouth to speak but froze when I suddenly pulled the coat off my head. 

“Callan, do you want to get married?” 

Callan blinked, clearly stunned by my words. 

“What?” 

I stood up, my eyes still red. “Didn’t you ask me to consider your proposal? Didn’t you say it would be mutually beneficial? I’ve decided. Let’s get married.” 

Callan reached out as if to wipe the tears from the corners of my eyes, but his hand stopped halfway, 

“Are you sure?” 

“A business marriage–what’s there to be unsure about? Do you want to or not?” I frowned, gripping his shoulders, my gaze resolute. 

Callan’s expression flickered with hesitation, as though only now processing what I’d said. 

“Of course! It would be an honor.” 

“Good.” 

Fgodded. 

Then here’s the first condition for our marriage: help me secure my position as the head of Howard Group. At least until my father wakes up, I need to ensure the company is firmly in my hands.”