Jason Scott let out a scoff, looking over his sons with a gaze that held no trace of kindness. In a firm voice, he declared, “I know some of you aren’t happy with me appointing Kayden Scott as the heir, but there’s no one in this family more suited for it! Look at yourselves-you think any of you are fit for the role? Not a chance.”
The words struck with finality, silencing any objections the Scott family sons might have had. No one dared utter a word.
Of course, there’s always someone bold enough to say what they shouldn’t. Neve muttered under her breath, irritated, “Everyone knows you’re just making up for what happened years ago. Putting some guy who’s been gone forever in charge of the Scott family…how could he ever win everyone’s loyalty?”
In private, the Scott family sons had already held secret meetings, voicing their determination not to let Kayden Scott rule over them. Outwardly, they kept quiet, but the second Kayden took over, they knew they’d be ready to rebel.
After all, how could they just hand over everything they’d worked so hard to maintain to someone who’d been away from the family for ten long years? Nobody would stomach that decision, not in a million years.
Jason Scott’s gaze fixed on Neve, then moved to Vicente as he sneered, “If any of you feel up to the challenge, go right ahead-match what Kayden Scott has achieved. If someone can reach his level of accomplishments and reputation, then fine. That person can take over as head of the family. How’s that?”
Not a soul dared to speak a word.
“One by one, I know what’s running through your minds. You think I’m only doing this to make up for the past, right? I won’t lie, there’s a part of me that feels that way. But I’m basing this decision on ability. The Scott family has defended Seclela for generations and earned its place as one of the Four Great Families-a legacy that demands honor. And now we have Kayden Scott, someone who commands respect far and wide, a warrior who strikes fear wherever he goes. Even our ancestors would agree he’s the rightful leader.”
The old man’s stirring words echoed in the room, leaving everyone else standing there, speechless.
Ann Scott, standing off to the side, finally spoke up, “Honestly, I think Kayden Scott is incredible. He’s been through so much and still protects our country. He’s a hero, a true legend! When I heard about his feats in ten battles, nine provinces, I couldn’t help but admire him. He hasn’t been home for over ten years; now that he’s back, we should welcome him with warmth, make him feel loved and accepted.”
Julian’s face turned a shade darker, and she rolled her eyes at Ann Scott, her expression saying everything-she was speechless that her own daughter wasn’t on her side.
Jason Scott grunted, about to respond, when suddenly a low rumble came from outside.
He’s here!
Kayden Scott had returned!
Several cars appeared slowly at the entrance, with the Scott family’s custom stretch Lincoln in the center. It was flanked by Mercedes and Maybach, looking like an armored convoy protecting the one within. This kind of procession was a privilege reserved for the head of the Scott family.
On the streets, people’s eyes were glued to this grand display, a spectacle only Kayden Scott could pull off.
Seeing the sight, Jason Scott’s pupils widened-he’s here! He took a few quick steps forward before stopping, unable to hold back his nerves.
He had to admit: he was anxious, nervous in a way he hadn’t been in fifteen years.
He’d been waiting for Kayden Scott to return, but now that the moment had come, he was overwhelmed with emotions he couldn’t put into words.
Was it love? Sure, there was love. Was there guilt? Absolutely. Regret? Plenty of that too.
All these emotions flooded Jason Scott’s heart.
Just moments ago, ten minutes felt like an eternity, but now that it was time, he wished it hadn’t flown by so quickly. He wasn’t ready for this.
Outside, the two rows of guards lining the pathway straightened, bowing in unison as soon as the car entered the Scott family estate, chanting, “Welcome home, young lord! Welcome back, War God!”
“Welcome home, young lord! Welcome back, War God!”
“Welcome home, young lord! Welcome back, War God!”
Wherever Kayden Scott passed, the family’s estate thundered with cheers, the powerful sound stirring everyone’s blood.
Kayden Scott sat in the car, his usually stoic face now tinged with a dangerous intensity. His body tensed, veins pulsing visibly.
Finally, after ten years, he was back.
This was the source of his nightmares, the place where it all began. The seed of vengeance that had grown inside him was about to explode. His hatred filled every corner of the vehicle, making it feel almost too small to contain the chilling aura radiating from him.
What awaited here was nothing short of disaster-Kayden Scott swore he would turn this place into a hell on earth.
A sharp crack sounded as Kayden Scott’s joints tightened of their own accord. The driver heard it, and beads of sweat appeared on his forehead. This was, without a doubt, the most nerve-wracking drive he’d ever had.
Kayden’s gaze was fixed straight ahead. He took a deep breath and murmured, “Jason Scott, did you really think pulling this whole stunt would make me forgive you? That it would make me accept you?”
He ignored everything outside the window. Hatred was all he felt.
At last, the car pulled up in front of the main hall, and a frail figure hobbled over with a cane, eyes red with emotion as he pulled open the car door.
Inside, a pale, gaunt young man met his gaze, his features strikingly familiar-almost an exact replica of Jason’s son.
For a second, Jason Scott felt as though he were looking at his own child again. Finally, his voice, hoarse with emotion, broke the silence, “Kayden! You’re finally home!”
Kayden sat inside, not sparing Jason Scott a glance. Only after hearing that voice did he slowly turn his head, meeting Jason Scott’s eyes.
Their gazes locked-for the first time in fifteen years, Kayden Scott was truly looking at the old man.
He’d aged, the wrinkles on his face deepened, though he still carried that same pride. It was clear-being the head of the Scott family was his greatest point of honor.
But as Kayden looked into Jason Scott’s eyes, his expression sharpened, his gaze turning colder, more menacing, until it burned with barely concealed fury.
Jason Scott’s heart skipped a beat at the sight. His gaze wavered, uncertain whether to stay or look away.
Kayden swallowed, each word laced with venom, “Yeah, I’m back.”