Chapter 117

Ethan Blackwood dismissed Vivian Lockhart's warning entirely. He assumed her threats were empty—that at most, she'd try to provoke him by flaunting other men in front of him.

The following day.

Ethan arrived at The Golden Leaf, a high-end teahouse in Paris, for a crucial business meeting with Richard Ashford, chairman of Ashford Group.

Ashford Group ranked among the top four electronics distributors in the country. Kingsley Holdings, once H Group's closest partner, had been on equal footing with Ashford Group—until Vivian had severed that alliance. Now, Ethan needed to secure a new distributor fast to prevent Blackwood Group's sales from plummeting.

Richard had been waiting in the VIP lounge. The moment Ethan entered, the older man rose with a practiced smile and extended his hand. "Ethan, it's been too long. Finally making time for your old friend?"

"Always a pleasure, Richard." Ethan's tone carried effortless authority, his demeanor cool as he took his seat.

"Try this oolong from the western regions. Exceptionally fragrant—I think you'll appreciate it." Richard poured the tea himself, playing the gracious host.

Despite Richard's stronger negotiating position, Blackwood Group's dominance in the industry was undeniable. Though decades younger, Ethan commanded the room with natural superiority. More importantly, Blackwood's electronics were unmatched in quality, backed by a fiercely loyal customer base. Partnering with them meant instant access to Paris's largest electronics market.

For years, Kingsley Holdings had reaped those benefits. Now, it was Ashford Group's turn—and Richard wasn't about to let this opportunity slip.

"Never thought Leonard Kingsley would cut ties with Blackwood Group. Claimed he wanted to work with some obscure startup instead. Foolish move..." Richard shook his head, sipping his tea.

"His loss, your gain. I look forward to our partnership," he added brightly.

"Likewise." Ethan's response was detached, his attention seemingly elsewhere.

Richard, ever the shrewd businessman, studied him before clearing his throat. "Since we're both committed, why not sign the contract today? For the next three years, Blackwood Group will allocate 80% of its electronics to Ashford Group. In return..." He leaned forward. "Beyond the base price, we'll remit 10% of quarterly profits to Blackwood Group. What do you think?"

The offer was generous, yet Ethan remained impassive. Truthfully, he hesitated—not due to any dislike for Ashford Group, but because of his grandfather's longstanding decree: No dealings with the Ashfords.

Four years ago, despite Ashford Group's superior proposal, Blackwood Group had chosen Kingsley Holdings solely because of that prohibition.

Richard's smile tightened as the silence stretched. "Something troubling you, Ethan?"

Ethan met his gaze directly. "To be frank, Richard, my grandfather forbade any collaboration between our families. So I have to ask—what exactly happened between you two?"