Chapter 256

"Rosalind is no child. How could she be so reckless? This will teach her a valuable lesson." Margaret's voice was firm.

"Mother, she's my only daughter!" Archibald's hands trembled. "If she goes to prison, what will become of me?"

Margaret remained unmoved. "She's a grown woman who must answer for her crimes."

Archibald hadn't anticipated his mother's resolve. His voice cracked. "If anything happens to Rosalind, I won't survive it. Is that what you want? To bury your own son in your old age?"

He slammed the door behind him, leaving Margaret sighing in resignation.

With no other options, she approached Nathan. "Could you speak to Evelyn? She's compassionate. Perhaps there's another solution?"

Nathan adjusted his cufflinks, his expression unreadable. "Grandmother, this is a legal matter now. Let the proper authorities handle it."

He couldn't bring himself to ask Evelyn for leniency. Corporate espionage wasn't a minor offense. A single data breach could destroy their company.

Gwendolyn, overhearing, misunderstood Nathan's stance. She wiped her tears, relief washing over her. "Nathan, I knew you'd help! Rosalind's been detained overnight already. You must get her out—"

Nathan's lips curled in a humorless smile. "Aunt Gwendolyn, don't celebrate yet. Industrial espionage carries a minimum three-year sentence."

"Three years? That's unacceptable!" Gwendolyn clutched at Nathan's sleeve desperately. "You know your uncle and I have only Rosalind. Speak to Evelyn—name your price!"

Nathan scoffed. "You overestimate my influence. Evelyn and I are divorced. This stays with legal."

Without another word, he strode out.

In the car, Simon studied Nathan's exhausted profile. "Mr. Sterling, you just returned from abroad. You should rest before returning to the office."

Nathan massaged his temples. Margaret's words at the birthday gala had haunted him, driving his overseas investigation. But after so many years, evidence was scarce.

Only confronting the source would bring resolution.

"How's Isabella's situation?" Nathan asked abruptly.

Simon adjusted his glasses awkwardly. "It's... complicated, sir."

Nathan's eyebrow arched. "Explain."

"The Delaneys learned of your involvement. They've mobilized their connections. The courts have made their position clear—unless we post exorbitant bail..."

Simon's meaningful silence spoke volumes.

"How much?"

"One billion dollars."

Nathan's expression darkened. While Sterling Enterprises could afford it, the sum was outrageous. Daylight robbery indeed.