Jasper held a deep respect for Alyssa's brothers, particularly Axel, whom he found to be kindred spirits. Their connection felt like a reunion with a friend from long ago, despite meeting later in life.
"Oh, goodness gracious! Winston!" Dominic emerged from the corridor with hurried steps and a troubled countenance, urgently beckoning for Winston. Close on his heels cthe senior shareholders of the KS Group.
Jasper's and Axel's faces turned grim at the sight of this.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtWinston had just regained consciousness, yet Dominic wasted no thurrying to his side. This could only mean Dominic had eyes in the hospital, ensuring he was abreast of every unfolding situation.
He pulled out all the stops to present himself as deeply invested in Winston's recovery. However, his underlying intention was to disseminate news of Winston's dire illness, generating pressure to sow discord within the KS Group and capitalize on the resulting upheaval for personal gain.
While Axel lacked the business acumen to fully grasp the situation's nuances, Jasper, with his keen insight, easily discerned Dominic's ulterior motives. He could read the intricate machinations reflected in Dominic's demeanor.
Among the hurried crowd converging at the ward entrance, Axel could discern only Dominic's familiar figure.
Dominic's astonishment was evident as he encountered Jasper's commanding stance at the entrance. After all, who wouldn't know Jasper Beckett, the president of the Beckett Group? Recalling Jasper's connection with Alyssa, Dominic mustered a disingenuous smile and extended his hand. "Ah, Mr. Beckett. It's been quite stime. | had a feeling you'd lend your assistance during this critical moment for the Taylor family. After all, we're practically family!" The remark was a calculated attempt to showcase his closeness to Jasper and bolster his own image.
"Ugh!" Axel expressed his disdain with a loud spit and a [x] of his eyes.
Dominic was rendered speechless.
Jasper narrowed his eyes, appraising him with a frosty stare. "And you are?" Everyone was dumbfounded.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmDominic's embarrassment was palpable as his expression stiffened in shock.
Jasper's question cut deep, a humiliating blow.
"Shouldn't common courtesy dictate that you introduce yourself before extending your hand?" Jasper's tone remained cool, his gaze unwaveringly icy. "Besides, it's curious how you claim we're family. | am Alyssa's partner.
I hold every member of the Taylor family dear. Why, then, do | not know who you are?" Turning slightly to Axel, Jasper asked, "Axel, do you know him?" Axel blinked his eyes. "I don't think so." Dominic struggled to contain his outrage, though he knew Winston's sons were not easily swayed. "Axel, your sense of humor remains intact after all these years," he remarked with forced joviality.
Then, with a shameless grin directed at Jasper, he continued, "Mr. Beckett, a man of your stature must find it difficult to keep track of everyone you meet. | believe we've met more than once, but it was my mistake. | should have introduced myself." "This is Mr. Winston's brother, Dominic Taylor, an executive director at the KS Group," Dominic's subordinate interjected, eager to support his boss.
"Ah, Mr. Dominic, the one with the questionable investment instincts." Jasper's smirk was evident as he looked down at Dominic. " Have you managed to recover the 50 million you lost?"