"You can only call yourself a real father if you've actually acted like one. Otherwise, what kind of father are you?" Silas let out a cold laugh. "Have you ever done a single decent thing in your life?"

"So what if I haven't? I gave you life, didn't I?" Oliver shot back, his voice icy. "The only reason you're here is because of me. Without me, you wouldn't exist."

"Yeah, but you brought me into this world and then abandoned me. If it hadn't been for you, I probably would have had a better chance at happiness." Silas's tone was sharp. "Your 'son' died the day you tried to kill him."

"But I didn't die. I survived and thrived. Do you know why? Because I'm your son. I inherited your best qualities. All that good DNA? It's from you!" Oliver said, as if it were self-evident.

Silas looked at Oliver with disgust. He'd seen shameless people, but never anyone this brazen. He'd underestimated Oliver's audacity.

"Since you're my son, you should return to me and obey me." Oliver continued, "You've divorced Calliope. Come home. Marry Blythe."

"What?" Silas stared at Oliver, incredulous. "Are you insane?"

"I'm not crazy. This is best for you. You're capable, Silas, but with my resources, you'd be even stronger. Doesn't every man want power?" Oliver fixed his gaze on Silas, like a salesman. "I'd never hurt you. I am your father, after all."

"Oh, so now you need help, you come crawling back? You tried to have me killed! You really think I'd help you now?" Silas's expression was a mixture of disbelief and amusement.

"Silas, I'm your father. You're my only son left, so I'd never hurt you. Returning to me will benefit you. I'll give you everything you want. I even found you a wife."

"Blythe is the White family's only daughter—the Whites who own half of Massachusetts. Their influence is immense. And she's a brilliant surgeon. Marrying her would be advantageous."

"Your current wife? Just a pretty face. She's not right for you. Blythe is supportive, sweet, and obedient—the perfect partner."

Silas stared at Oliver, his eyes filled with sarcasm. "You never cared if I lived or died, and now you meddle in my life? What's the matter, are you desperate?"

Oliver huffed. "There's no need for that attitude. I'm just trying to do what's best for you."

"Oh, well then, thank you so much," Silas laughed coldly. "Oliver, stay away from me. I have zero interest in your schemes, and as far as I'm concerned, I don't have a father."

"And don't you dare touch my wife. That's where I draw the line. If you harm her, I will make your life a living hell. I swear it."