Master of his heart (Brielle and Max)

Max’s fingertips faintly stirred as he lifted his gaze. “Bradley’s gonna screw up sooner or later.” Michael arched an eyebrow, his tone casual. “I recall Bradley’s doing quite well for himself. He wouldn’t have outplayed all those rivals if he wasn’t.

“It’s just a matter of time.” Whenever Max wished for trouble, it would brew.

Michael choked on those words, feeling an even greater headache coming on. Sometimes, talking to his youngest son was infuriating enough to drive a man to his grave.

William and Ryan were all respectful and deferential, but with Max, it was always Michael who ended up eating humble pie.

“Since William is so keen on this project, let him have at it. It’s just a medium–sized venture, after all. He’s done his fair share for Dorsey International over the years; can’t deny him this small request.”

Michael thought back to last night when William suddenly showed up at the family mansion. dutifully sharing supper with him. It was only afterward that William brought up Bradley, carefully omitting the fact that the project was one that Max had discarded.

What was William up to?

Max stood, understanding that Michael was playing the peacemaker, hinting that denying this favor would be a slight against his elders. “This won’t set a precedent.”

Michael lifted a hand, pressing at his brow once more. “Yeah, let your brother have his way with

it.”

After leaving the family mansion and getting into his car, Max’s expression darkened. William was aware of his ties with Brielle, but just lacking any solid evidence for now.

William saw Max abandon the partnership with Bradley, and it probably spurred him to do some digging, which led him to Brielle.

But it was all speculation.

Such speculation, if brought before Michael, would embarrass himself. So, William shifted tactics, reclaiming the project. This way, he could put Max in his place.

Not just that, but it could also sow discord between Max and Michael, and furthermore, strain Max’s relationship with Brielle, stirring up trouble.

Killing two birds with one stone.

Max pieced together the intricate puzzle, closing his eyes. William was meticulous, clever enough this time not to blab to Michael, but retreating as a way to advance.

By bringing this matter to Michael directly, Max would inevitably raise Michael’s suspicions..

15:06

Sooner or later, it would lead back to Brielle.

Patrick, driving up front, noticed Max looking exhausted and couldn’t help asking. “Sir, are you worried about Ms. Brielle’s safety?”

If she caught Michael’s eye, no one could guess what Michael’s would do, Given Michael’s ruthless tactics against Everett, Brielle wouldn’t stand a chance.

It wasn’t just concern; Brielle had already caught William’s attention. It seemed necessary to take other measures. At the very least, Max couldn’t allow her to get dragged into this.

Facing Max’s silence, Patrick knew he must’ve been pondering some issue. Patrick kept quiet. ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

As the sky darkened, a tense undercurrent flowed through Beaconsfield. Those with a keen sense sensed the change, but outsiders remained oblivious.

Brielle, only half in the loop, knew getting close to Max meant trouble. But having reached out to him, she’d braced herself for whatever might come.

Julian had passed away, and she’d sent the orphanage director packing. Brielle had no family in Beaconsfield, just a few scattered friends. Yet she hadn’t expected Max to push her away.

She stayed in her apartment for two days, refusing to wallow in a heartache that had begun even before love could take root. On the third day, she decided to get out. Her leg had nearly healed. She could walk without a cane, but for caution’s sake, she brought it along.

Near Pearl Estate was a charming forest park, a perfect place for some soul–searching. As she stepped out of her complex, she spotted a luxury car pulling up. Out stepped a woman–Catherine.

Catherine’s eyes turned scornful at the sight of Brielle. “Well, look who it is. Ms. Haywood.” Her tone dripped with sarcasm, grating on the nerves.

Brielle stood at the curb, hailing a taxi, with no mind to engage her. Brielle leaned her cane against a tree trunk, and waited.

Catherine, noticing Brielle’s indifference, twisted her nose in annoyance. Then her gaze landed on two kids passing by, likely beggars aiming to scrounge up some cash from the well–to–do residents.

Catherine whipped out several bills, gesturing toward Brielle. “Snatch her cane, and this

money’s yours.”