The price of betrayal (Jack and Ashley) novel Chapter 458

"Dad, it's not your fault. I don't understand the hardship you've gone through all these years, but this kind of thing will never happen again. You want to gamble on human nature? Well, let me tell you—human nature isn't something you can gamble on!"

As Nolan spoke, he suddenly thought of Megan. If she were willing to lend a hand, his parents wouldn't be living in such hardship. Then there were Tyler and Sharon—they took everything that should have belonged to his parents. If they had even a little bit of conscience, his parents' life might be a bit better.

Yet, what did they do? Nothing! Thinking about it only filled Nolan with anger.

Nolan slowly stood up. He then looked at Wayne and said, "Dad, I'll go up to the stage with you on the condition that you don't meddle in how I handle things. I just need you to trust me this time."

Wayne could tell from Nolan's attitude that he was planning to do something, and he immediately tried to stop him. Nolan, however, said sternly, "Dad, remember this—whether or not I go up to the stage, I won't let them off the hook this time. No platform's going to stop me."

Wayne nodded and didn't say anything more to Nolan. Instead, he looked at Archie and asked, "Mr. Baxter, do join us."

Archie quickly shook his head and replied, "Mr. Greene Senior, I think I'll pass on taking the stage. After all, the esteemed guests seated up there are all members of your family—who am I to take part? Even though I'm a friend of Mr. Nolan, my status may not be sufficient for me to sit up there. So, if you don't mind, I'll remain seated in the audience."

Suddenly, Archie paused with hesitation before continuing, "Mr. Greene Senior, there's something I'm not sure whether I should tell you."

However, it was at that moment he knew clearly that his son had truly grown up. Nolan no longer needed Wayne's protection since he had his own power.

"Alright, I understand," Wayne said to Archie. He then turned to Nolan and hesitated for a moment before saying softly, "Do what you need to do, but I hope things can be resolved peacefully. Let's try to settle this as peacefully as possible."

Nolan nodded lightly and replied, "I'll give them a chance, but it's up to them whether they take it." He then gently took Wayne's arm, adding, "Dad, let me accompany you to the stage."