Chapter 423 Real Allowance
Ava's words made Ryder secretly marvel at her sharp intuition.
But on the outside, Ryder played it cool. "Don't overthink it. His death has nothing to do with enemies or traps. Just focus on taking care of yourself. Things aren't like they used to be. If you run into any trouble, don't keep it to yourself. Tell me right away, okay?"
Ryder kept the truth from Ava to keep her safe and out of harm's way. He just wanted her to live a happy, worry-free life.
Ava nodded obediently. "Got it! I'll remember!"
Ryder gently patted her head, concerned. "Stay home for a few days before going back to school. Do you have enough money? I can send you some."
Ava shook her head. "No need, I have money. It's the allowance Dad left me."
Ryder was taken aback. "He left you an allowance too? How much?"
When he inherited the estate, their father John had left him $1 billion. Through various investments and bets, that had grown to nearly $2 billion in cash flow, not counting other assets.
Ava pulled out a bank card from her pocket. It was black with a dragon pattern, looking very luxurious.
"This is the card Mr. Brown gave me. He said it was the allowance Dad left me. I checked, and the balance is $5 billion!"
Even Ryder, who had seen a lot, was shocked. Even the founders of huge companies would struggle to come up with that much cash quickly. The interest alone on $5 billion would be more than most people could earn in several lifetimes.
He didn't expect their father to leave Ava so much money. It seemed John really favored her. Ryder smiled bitterly but was genuinely happy for her.
Ava handed the card to Ryder with a sweet smile. "Ryder, you can have all this money. I can't spend that much."
Ryder felt a warmth in his heart, knowing that since childhood, she had always shared everything with him first, making their bond something special.
But Ryder refused. "This card was left to you, so it's yours. Spend it however you want, no need to give it to me."
"But..."
"No buts!" Ryder interrupted, serious. "Just listen to me."
"Alright then," Ava pouted, reluctantly taking back the card. She planned to save it for Ryder in case he needed it in the future.
As they were talking, a sleazy voice came from downstairs. "I heard Ava is back? Where is she? Come out and let me see! It's been a long time!"
Ryder immediately knew it was Ryan. Ava recognized his voice too.
Her face lit up with joy as she dashed downstairs, throwing herself into Ryan's arms.
"Uncle Ryan!" she exclaimed, her voice a mix of excitement and emotion.
Ryan was a bit taken aback by the hug but quickly dropped his usual carefree act. He patted her back, saying, "It's been years, and you've grown into such a beautiful young lady. I could die happy now!"
"Uncle Ryan, don't say that! You're so healthy and kind; you'll live a long life!" Ava let go and blinked her big, watery eyes at him.
"Good! Haha! No wonder Ava's so good with words, much better than Ryder!" Ryan laughed heartily.
Ava had grown up with Ryan around. Back in their rural hometown, he'd win some money gambling at the local store and always buy her snacks. He genuinely liked this sensible and adorable girl.
To Ava, Ryan was one of her closest elders. Even though some of his lifestyle choices were "unique," she always respected him.
Just then, Ryder came downstairs and rolled his eyes at Ryan. "Why drag me into this?"
Ryan ignored him and turned to Ava. "Ava, that scoundrel who hit you and ran may have escaped once, but I'll catch him again and make sure he pays for what he did!"
Ava looked worried. "Let it go, Uncle Ryan. Don't risk yourself because of me. I'll be worried!"
Ryan was moved to tears. His heart felt warm.
Meanwhile, Ryder walked over to George, who had come with Ryan. George gave him a look, and Ryder followed him outside to the yard.
George spoke respectfully. "Mr. Clark, we've investigated, but there's no trace of Sam yet. From my experience, the people who rescued him aren't ordinary; they're likely not from Houston."
Ryder nodded. "Don't worry about it for now. Sam has a grudge against me. Even if I don't go after him, he'll come after me eventually. How's everything going after Mark's death?"
George replied, "Mark's men have scattered, and his bars, nightclubs, and other businesses are currently unattended. I've assigned people to gradually take over. We'll thoroughly investigate to ensure no hidden dangers remain."
Ryder smiled with satisfaction. "Well done!"
Mark's empire had crumbled, and now George, who was absorbing his territory and talent, would become the new king. Of course, under Ryder's watch, George wouldn't dare engage in illegal activities.
"All thanks to your guidance, Mr. Clark," George said respectfully.
Suddenly remembering something, he added, "Mr. Clark, the hospital just informed us that Josh has regained consciousness!"
Ryder's face lit up with joy. "Great! After the meal, we'll go to the hospital to see him. I have an important task for him!"