Chapter 786
Although a frown creased her face, Eloise knew Nathaniel was right. She and Naomi were not only acquainted but close friends, a friendship Eloise hadn't expected to be so useful after all these years.
"Mom, I'm not trying to manipulate you," Nathaniel said as he drove. "You know what's at stake. Our fate hangs in the balance; we're all in this together. We have to work together, don't you agree?"
Eloise shifted, sighing as shadows enveloped her. She never imagined the day she and her children would unite against her husband and his second family. Initially, she'd dreamed of being a trophy wife, securing a good marriage for her daughter, and retiring peacefully. But that was wishful thinking. Joseph was poised to take everything she’d worked for to support another family. How could she allow that?
"I already helped you with Naomi," she said. "Are you sure you can handle the rest?" Her concern remained.
Nathaniel, focused on driving, didn't dwell on her question. "Mom, why do you sound so much like Arianna? Don't worry. I've arranged everything. He'll have his crash at a crucial meeting tomorrow."
A sardonic grin touched his lips. "With such a spectacular failure in front of shareholders and executives, he won't climb another rung, even if he salvages the project."
Nathaniel had meticulously planned everything. Years spent navigating the business world had taught him valuable lessons. Now, it was time to teach someone else a lesson. That blonde-haired brat, Damian, had dared to belittle Nathaniel, believing himself in complete control. Nathaniel wanted Damian to experience the dizzying heights of success followed by a catastrophic fall.
Eloise turned to face him. "Your sister is just worried about you," she said. "Remember, you two are siblings, my children. You must be on the same side. Understand?"
She harbored a secret fear. Seeing their collaboration against outsiders was unsettling. What would happen afterward? Would they turn on each other, vying for dominance?
"I know, Mom. I know my limits," Nathaniel replied, his hands steady on the wheel.
"This incident will severely damage the company, leaving a lasting impact," Eloise sighed. Honestly, she didn't want to witness the Tanner family's downfall. But if it meant falling into Elizabeth's hands, she'd rather see it crash and burn.
"Mom, don't worry," Nathaniel repeated. "If I can start this, I can end it. It'll impact the company, but it won't be catastrophic. I assure you."
He envisioned himself as the hero who would turn the tide, his influence within the company inevitably growing. Climbing the family ladder without the Tanner name was challenging, unlike Damian's position. Nathaniel needed to establish himself before ascending. He wouldn't rush it. His vision far surpassed Damian's.