The Heart Left Behind (Cole and Yvonne) novel Chapter 306

I was Xavier's father. Of course, I had the authority to stand up for my son's rights.

Glancing at Jared, I said, "I wonder how many years a stepfather would get for abusing his stepson? I haven't looked into that part of the law yet."

Jared knew I wasn't kidding. He sprang to his feet, his face contorting with agitation as he shouted, "I'm raising your child for you! How could you be so ungrateful?"

"As his stepfather, it's your duty to ensure his quality of life. Wasn't that stated in the contract?"

I caught the loopholes in his argument and signaled Murphy to record this. "I'm not sure what your actions would count as. Child abuse? Or fraud?"

Knowing me well, Yvonne was well aware that I wasn't just saying these to spite them.

"Cole, we're just letting Xavier do what he loves. Don't be unreasonable," she hastily said.

"I never said he couldn't do what he loves," I responded. "I just want him to be safer."

Yvonne fell silent. I had evidence, and there was no point in arguing. Clutching the hem of her shirt, she looked utterly defeated.

"I'm taking my son back and even giving you money. That's more than generous," I said.

If it weren't for the fact that Jared had indeed treated Xavier quite well for a while and the hassle of going through a lawsuit, I wouldn't even consider offering five million dollars.

"Xavier is my son, and he's priceless to me. But since you insist on putting a price on him, five million dollars it is," Yvonne suddenly said.

The amount could easily resolve Langley Group's financial crisis, so she faltered. Just as she was about to approach me, Jared stopped her.

"Are you going to give up on Xavier?" he asked, looking incredulous.

"Five million dollars is enough to save Langley Group."

Now, Yvonne was even more unscrupulous than Jared. She gulped and took another two steps forward.

"Xavier, come with me," I began. "I'll open a company for you, and you can film whatever you want. How about that?"

My heart ached as I looked at him, my expression darkening. For the first time, I had the urge to physically confront someone.

The moment I met Xavier's gaze, I was stunned. I felt my heart sink, and I was overwhelmed by a sense of foreboding.

Sure enough, in the next instant, Xavier shook his head with a gentle expression. His movement was so subtle that it instantly reminded me of how mischievous he used to be.

But recent months of filming had drained the passion from his eyes, leaving behind a lifeless shell.

"Daddy," he said, touching the back of my hand.

The warmth of his touch was unmistakable despite his small palm.

"Xavier, come with me."