The Unlucky Turn by Mark Twain 314

While Callahan and Fitch exchanged pleasantries, Milford stood behind his father, his gaze instinctively landing on Leilani. Seeing her unharmed, his tense expression relaxed slightly. But when his eyes shifted to see her standing with Callahan, he froze.

Leilani and Callahan? When did Leilani get so close to him? What was their relationship?

He saw Leilani’s hand firmly held in Callahan’s. Their temperaments seemed to match perfectly, and even their silhouettes exuded a

chemistry that felt impenetrable to outsiders. His chest felt inexplicably tight, as if something was lodged in his throat-unable to be swallowed

or spat out.

Milford clenched his fists, his mind uncontrollably replaying the look Leilani used to give him. Calm, yet filled with loathing.

But now, standing beside Callahan, her trust and relaxation were unmistakable. He had never seen that expression on Leilani’s face before.

Milford tightened his fists unconsciously. Though his face remained calm, a storm was raging inside him.

“Mr. Langley, I recall the Sherwood family didn’t send you an invitation. May I ask the reason for your presence?” Milford spoke, his tone calm. but laced with probing curiosity. He harbored a petty, unspoken hope, simultaneously anticipating and dreading Callahan’s answer.

This time, Callahan didn’t need to speak. Leilani squeezed his hand back, using the action to directly prove the nature of their relationship.

Callahan’s brow lifted slightly. The look he gave Leilani was delighted and affectionate.

Everyone noticed Leilani’s gesture. There was a tacit understanding

between them that no one else could access. They looked incredibly intimate and well-matched. Without a word, their actions revealed

everything.

An indescribable bitterness spread through Milford’s heart. The corners of his mouth twitched into a bitter smile, trying to mask the acidity rising

within him.

But this wasn’t the time to pursue personal grievances. Milford looked at Leilani, his eyes full of pain and guilt. “Regarding Yvonne, I owe you an apology. As for the Sloan family’s affairs, the Sherwoods will investigate thoroughly. Once the investigation is complete, if Tamara really broke the law, we will absolutely not shield her.”

Milford finally showed some capability in handling the situation. Fitch nodded in agreement beside him. “Yes, Mr. Langley. Once the truth is clear, we will certainly make a public announcement.”

Fitch’s tone remained polite. But the implication was clear. The Sherwood family wouldn’t let outsiders dictate their decisions so easily.

Callahan’s lips curled slightly, though his eyes held no mirth. “Mr.” Sherwood, if I recall correctly, in the eyes of the law, there is no such thing as a ‘family matter.’ Tamara is now the Sherwood family’s daughter-in-law, while Leilani is an outsider to you.”

He paused, his cold gaze sweeping over them. “You say pretty words about not shielding Tamara. But your actions don’t seem to match your claims.”

Fitch’s expression shifted slightly; he clearly hadn’t expected Callahan to be so hardline. He pondered for a moment, still trying to de-escalate.

After all, Callahan wasn’t an ordinary man. If the Langley Group truly decided to attack, the Sherwood family might not be able to withstand it. “Mr. Langley, surely you aren’t demanding we give you an answer right this second. I guarantee on the name of the Sherwood Group that once

Chapter

the facts are out, we will punish any wrongdoing severely!”

Callahan sneered. “No need.”

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