Betrayed, But Not Defeated novel Chapter 189

At Qranross Hotel, Zidane stood at the entrance early and waited. When he saw Charlene and Daniel step out of the car, a smile appeared on his face.

"Sorry about yesterday, Charlene." Zidane stepped forward with his arms open as if to give Charlene a hug.

Charlene took a step back and extended her hand instead. "Since we're here for business, it's normal that we compete over deals. But since you've decided to establish yourself in Qranross, you can always ask me if you ever need help."

Zidane's expression remained unchanged as he smiled. "You always know me best!"

Then, he turned to look at Daniel. Their eyes met, and Daniel's gaze was calm, perhaps overwhelmingly so.

A faint tremor ran through Zidane's heart. Truth be told, very few people could remain so unaffected under the scrutiny of his heterochromatic eyes.

"A pleasure to meet you, Mr. Ashcroft!" Zidane extended his hand.

Daniel did not shy away and shook it. Then, he smiled.

Zidane began exerting force and seemed to use the handshake to test Daniel's strength. The latter responded by gradually increasing his grip.

Soon, the arrogance on Zidane's face faded. His lips lost their color, and sweat beaded on his forehead.

"You seem quite weak, Mr. Wilcox. You should take care of your health. I know an excellent doctor practicing traditional medicine, and I can introduce him to you one day." Daniel chuckled as he let go.

Zidane exhaled sharply. His gaze was filled with shock as he looked at Daniel.

But Daniel's playful smile and mocking words made his expression darken. "I appreciate your concern, Mr. Ashcroft, but perhaps you should be more concerned about your family."

"Looks like you're weak because you're too meddlesome!" Daniel scoffed.

"If you're unsure, don't say it." Daniel immediately cut him off.

Zidane was momentarily flustered and hesitated to act recklessly after Daniel's earlier strength display. Yet, he couldn't hold back and decided to come clean. "Some things you hold onto are recipes for disaster. Even if you don't care about yourself, shouldn't you think about the people around you?"

Daniel eyed him and smiled. "So, you're also after the genetic longevity formula huh? Well, that depends on whether you're capable enough to take it away."

Though he was smiling, his eyes were ice-cold.

"You're quite confident," Zidane commented. He narrowed his eyes and felt uneasy under Daniel's gaze.

Daniel ignored him and turned to Ernest, who was approaching them. The latter held a wine glass and had a pleasant smile on his face as he walked straight up to Daniel. "Long time no see, Mr. Ashcroft!"

"Long time? Didn't we just meet not too long ago?" Daniel chuckled.