Chapter 1323

Elyse’s brows furrowed as she studied Jayden. “Who’s going to die?”

“No one’s dying,” Jayden said with a dismissive shrug. “She’s just being dramatic.”

“Jayden Owen!” Debora erupted, her voice trembling with fury. “How can you be so heartless? The family faces a crisis, and you, a family member, should shoulder your responsibility!”

Elyse set her handbag on the sofa, curiosity piqued. “A family as prestigious as yours… in trouble? That doesn’t make sense.”

Debora’s eyes flashed with indignation. “You’re not part of the family. Stop meddling where you don’t belong! You have no right to judge us.”

Elyse merely rolled her eyes and settled onto the sofa.

Jayden crossed his arms, his smile holding a touch of mockery. “You come to my house seeking help, yet here you are, throwing your weight around.”

“I’m not,” Debora protested, her lips quivering.

Jayden’s gaze shifted toward Elyse, his expression one of quiet admiration. “Debora, you claim Elyse has no right to judge? Funny. She’s probably the most qualified person in this room to do so.”

The ice in Jayden’s stare dissolved Debora’s arrogance like morning frost under the sun. Her mind raced as she reminded herself to maintain composure. The family desperately needed Jayden’s intervention—the matter of Elyse’s alleged crime would have to wait.

Swallowing her pride, Debora bowed her head. “Jayden, the family is in dire straits. Please, let’s put aside our differences and help us.”

Jayden settled beside Elyse, his voice steady. “Why do they send you alone to persuade me? If your parents need assistance, they should show the proper respect.”

“As an Owen, isn’t it your duty to help during hardships?” Debora’s voice rose incredulously. “What gives you the right to demand my parents come begging?”

Jayden found her naivety almost amusing. In his eyes, the Owens were merely opportunists chasing their own interests. Kason Owen , Debora’s father, too proud to ask for help himself, had sent his daughter instead. Success would benefit him; failure would fall on Debora’s shoulders. Yet she remained blind to this manipulation, believing she fought for family honor.

Jayden’s voice cut through her delusions.