Chapter 167

Liam Blackwood casually took a seat across from the three visitors.

An immediate chill settled over the room, the temperature seeming to drop several degrees. Dominic Carter swallowed hard, his fingers twitching nervously. There was something hauntingly familiar about the general's face, but he couldn't place where they might have met before.

Vincent Carter leaned forward aggressively. "No greeting for your in-laws? You've got some nerve treating us like this."

Liam had thoroughly investigated Evelyn's adoptive family before their marriage. He knew she wanted nothing to do with them, and he had no intention of fostering any relationship either.

"State your business," Liam said flatly, his voice devoid of warmth.

Vincent's face flushed with anger as he jabbed a finger toward Liam. "I'm your wife's father! You should show some respect!"

"If you're just here to waste my time, leave now," Liam countered, his steely gaze making Vincent shrink back slightly.

Vincent quickly got to the point. "Where's the bride price for marrying my daughter? Don't think you can get away without paying at least a few million."

"It's been taken care of," Liam replied smoothly.

"Then where is it?"

"With Evelyn."

Vincent's eyes bulged. "How much was it worth?"

"Half of everything I possess."

Three jaws dropped simultaneously. Dorothy Simmons clutched her chest as if having a heart attack.

Vincent licked his suddenly dry lips, his tone turning wheedling. "Traditionally, the bride's parents receive the gifts. Why give them to my daughter?"

Liam rested his chin on one hand, his expression bored. "Evelyn owns half my estate. What she chooses to share with you is her decision. I won't interfere."

His voice turned dangerous. "And if she decides to give you nothing, you'll accept that."

Vincent scoffed loudly. "That ungrateful brat wouldn't dare! I'll make her regret it if she tries—"

Before he could finish, Liam's fist slammed onto the table, making everyone jump. "Touch one hair on her head, and you'll be breathing your last by sunrise."

The threat hung heavy in the air. Even Dominic stopped fidgeting, frozen in place.

After an awkward silence, Dominic forced a shaky smile. "So... what was your name again?"

"General Liam Blackwood." The name had an immediate effect - all color drained from their faces as they exchanged panicked glances.

They desperately tried to convince themselves it was just a coincidence. There was no way their Evelyn could have married the most feared military leader in Aldenria.

Dominic's voice cracked as he asked, "And... where do you work, exactly?"

"Royal Heights Military Base."

Dominic shot to his feet so fast he nearly knocked over his chair. "General Blackwood! Our deepest apologies for disturbing you!"

He grabbed his parents' arms urgently. "Mom, Dad, we should leave immediately."

Vincent shook him off angrily. "Leave? We haven't gotten our money yet!"

"Are you insane?" Dominic hissed, sweat pouring down his face. "That's the Supreme Commander of Aldenria's armed forces!"

Dorothy gasped as realization struck. "The same General Blackwood who shut down Vince's casino?"

Dominic nodded frantically, practically dragging them toward the door. "We need to get out of here before—"

Vincent suddenly roared, shaking off his son's grip. "I don't care if he's the damn president! He married my daughter, which makes him family!"

"You have no idea who you're dealing with!" Dominic shouted, his hands balling into fists.

Vincent scoffed loudly. "What's he going to do? Shoot me with one of his fancy military toys? Let him try! I'm not afraid of some weapons dealer!"

Dominic looked ready to strangle his own father as he whispered harshly, "That 'weapons dealer' commands the deadliest special forces in three nations. He could have us disappeared before we reach the parking lot!"