Three years in exile: The God of War returns

Chapter 4 - Severing Ties

Seeing his grandfather speak up, Branwell grew bolder, standing tall and puffing out his chest.

"Cousin, it’s not like I didn't warn you. Even being Kendrick’s plaything is better than following this useless man. Besides, Young Master Kendrick promised us that if you just spend one night with him, he will let you manage the new project. The Worthington family will gain more political connections. Isn't that great?"

Jason had also calmed down. His face was twisted with a bit of fear toward Michael, so he didn't stand up, just sat there and spoke.

"This is what they call having a blessing and not knowing it. Even if Young Master Kendrick plays around, so what? You’d still be his wife. With that position, do the other things even matter? As for that crude man, if you follow him, your father will only find death."

Fernanda, who had been silent, chimed in, eager to fuel the fire.

"Oh my. After all, it’s better to be a rich man’s mistress than a poor man’s wife. You should understand this logic. Besides, this benefits everyone, and your father can enjoy your success later."

Gianni was treated as if he were invisible because they knew that as long as Kate agreed, they would all benefit. Gianni was just a sick man, like a dog kept in the house.

"No. I beg you all, don't push the girl into the fire."

Choking on his words, Gianni was helpless.

"Fine. Let’s go. From now on, there is no need to be associated with these Worthingtons."

"You’re crazy. If anything happens to my father, I will never forgive you."

Kate was furious. How could he be so impulsive? She could suffer with him, but how could she let her father suffer?

"Trust me. I won't let anything happen to our father."

After being gentle with Kate, Duncan turned back toward the Worthington family and stated firmly.

"Since we are no longer associated, I hope you Worthingtons make a public announcement. If you won't do it, I will. From today, my father-in-law and my wife have nothing to do with this family. Even if the day comes when the Worthington family is in trouble, do not come looking for us."

As he finished, the authority in his voice left everyone stunned. But after regaining their composure, the Worthingtons acted as if they had heard a joke.

"Ridiculous. As if we’d ever need you."

Branwell was the first to speak.

"Since you've chosen to sever ties, Kate is also fired from the Worthington Group. All projects and benefits are cut off."

Luke announced from his side.

"I..."

"No need. Just the public severance is enough."

Duncan cut Kate off. He wanted to take his loved ones away and have nothing more to do with these people.

"If you've chosen to leave, then get the hell out of the Worthington house."

Before Luke could finish his sentence, Duncan moved quickly to support Kate, while Michael helped Gianni. They walked out with their heads held high.

Suddenly, Duncan stopped and turned back to Luke with a mysterious smirk.

"It seems you’ve forgotten whose villa you are living in. No matter. Sooner or later, it will return to its rightful owner. You should start looking for a new place to stay."

He spoke and then quickly walked out without another glance at the Worthingtons.

The Worthington family members were stunned by his words. It was true; they had come to view this villa as their own.

Years ago, it was Duncan and his wife who let them move in. It was also they who created the Worthington Group to give the family something to lean on. But hearts are cold. From the day Duncan fell from grace, the Worthingtons acted as the masters, while the true owner, Kate, was treated as if she were living on their charity.

"Humph, let’s see what they can do."

Luke muttered stubbornly.

By then, Duncan had already put Gianni and Kate into the car. The atmosphere inside was quite quiet.

Gianni seemed to want to ask something, but Duncan quickly spoke up to reassure him.

"After years of being away, I've managed to save a bit of money. For now, I’ll take everyone to buy a good house, and then we’ll figure out the rest."

Kate felt a little comforted hearing that, but she still felt that the savings would only last a short while. Her father’s illness required a lot of money, and she had been cut off by the Worthington Group.

"How far can that money go? Your few dollars of savings won't maintain my father’s treatment."

But Gianni, though he had no hope, didn't want his daughter to be pessimistic. At the moment, Duncan was their only lifeline.

"Kate, you and Duncan just live well. Everyone has their fate. Don't overthink it; my illness isn't something that can be cured just by having money. Don't let it weigh on you."

Duncan was very confused. Three years ago, his father-in-law’s health wasn't great, but he wasn't this ill. He needed to resolve this illness first.

"Don't worry, Father. I happen to know a famous doctor. I can ask him to examine you."

"Really?"

Kate’s eyes lit up.

"Truly."

Gianni didn't hold much hope either, only pretending to be happy so that Kate would be at ease.