Chapter 360 Diana's Affection
Nicholas was fuming, his anger almost tangible. "Diana, how do you expect me to help? That dirtbag Lanny did some unforgivable stuff like kidnapping and rape. My daughter-in-law Lila is messed up for life, both physically and mentally. The Jackson family has a reputation to keep in the business world. If we help the Wilson family, what happens to our honor and dignity? How can I just let this slide?"
He took a big gulp of wine and went on, "And let's not forget, the Wilson family's downfall is partly because of the Griffin family's ruthless tactics. The Griffins are powerful and cutthroat in business. It's clear they want to crush the Wilsons completely. I'm not about to make an enemy of the Griffins for the Wilsons. Especially not for Lanny, who deserves to pay for what he's done!"
My heart tightened, but I still tried to reason with him. "I get it. Lanny's actions are unforgivable, and his crimes have devastated Lila. But David is different. He's been working tirelessly, trying to gather funds to make up for the Wilson family's mistakes."
Hearing this, Nicholas sighed heavily and changed his tone. "Diana, do you remember when the Cooper Group was in trouble, how much grief David's father Daniel gave you? Yet now you want to help the Wilson family? Why?"
I was taken aback for a moment but replied honestly, "Godfather, I do remember what Daniel did to me. But David isn't like Daniel. We've been friends for over twenty years, growing up together. That bond is real. To me, he's as important as Lila. I can't just stand by and do nothing when he's in trouble."
Nicholas scrutinized me, trying to read my deepest thoughts, and then asked, "Just friendship? No other reason? I remember you two dated."
I met Nicholas's gaze and shook my head firmly. "David is now married to someone from the Griffin family. We're just friends now. I'm helping him purely out of our long-standing friendship. I can't bear to see him and the Wilson family fall."
I paused, watching Nicholas's expression.
Though his face remained stern, he seemed to be listening intently, so I continued, "The Wilson Group has been in business for many years, with numerous industries and countless suppliers and partners. If the Wilson Group collapses, many related businesses will be affected, potentially leading to thousands of job losses and destabilizing the entire industry. You are highly respected in the business world. If you help the Wilson family now, you can prevent this crisis and demonstrate your social responsibility, further elevating your prestige in the industry."
Nicholas was silent for a long time, tapping his fingers on the table.
Finally, he sighed deeply. "Alright. For the sake of your friendship, I'll agree to meet him. But I warn you, if he can't give me a satisfactory explanation, I won't get involved."
I was overjoyed and quickly said, "Godfather, thank you so much! David will understand your concerns and explain everything properly.""Alright, Friday night at eight. Both of you come see me," Nicholas said, his voice flat and emotionless.
With Nicholas's agreement secured, I had no reason to stick around the gallery. So I left, feeling a mix of excitement and relief.
As soon as I stepped outside, David, who had been waiting anxiously at the corner, rushed over. His eyes were bloodshot, and his face was etched with worry, clearly showing how agonizing the wait had been.
A glimmer of hope lit up in his eyes, and he asked, his voice trembling, "Diana, how did it go? What did Nicholas say?"
Despite my own excitement, I tried to keep my tone calm. "He agreed to meet you!"
David was stunned for a moment, then his face broke into an uncontrollable smile. He exclaimed, "Really? Diana, you're a lifesaver! I knew you could do it!"
His eyes welled up, and he stepped forward, pulling me into a tight hug. I stiffened, instinctively pushing him away and quickly glancing around, lowering my voice urgently. "David, let go! There might be spies from Nicholas or the Griffin family around. Be careful!"
David snapped back to reality, a look of embarrassment crossing his face as he released me and awkwardly rubbed his hands together. After a moment, he looked at me again, repeatedly saying, "Thank you, Diana. Without you, I wouldn't know what to do."
I patted his shoulder and smiled, reminding him. "Don't get too excited yet. The problem isn't solved. Nicholas agreed to meet you, but he's not exactly friendly. He said if you can't give him a satisfactory explanation, he won't get involved. But since he agreed to meet, there's hope. Prepare well, and I believe you can convince Nicholas to help."
David's previous gloom vanished, replaced by anticipation as he nodded eagerly. "I understand. I'll show my sincerity. Did Nicholas mention any specific requirements or concerns?"
I recalled my conversation with Nicholas and said, "He's mainly concerned about the impact of Lanny's actions and the Griffin family's stance. The Griffin family played a significant role in the Wilson family's crisis, and Nicholas doesn't want to offend them. Be careful with your words, and don't escalate the conflict."
David nodded firmly, saying seriously, "I know how serious this is, Diana. This chance to meet Nicholas is all thanks to you. Don't worry. I won't mess it up. Did you set a time and place for the meeting?"
"Yes, Friday night. He wants both of us to meet him. Nicholas is very punctual, so don't be late," I instructed.
David's tone was resolute. "Don't worry. I'll be there early. Diana, I don't know how to thank you enough. I'll never forget this favor!"
"Don't be so formal with me. We've been friends for over twenty years. Prepare well and seize this opportunity," I said, smiling and gently patting his arm in encouragement.
I looked up at the sky, where a few clouds floated in the blue expanse. David and I had been through enmity and love over the past twenty years. Our friendship had developed into something remarkably strong, creating an unbreakable bond between us.
Log in with Google Account
Chapters
Favorite
Settings
