Chapter 675

Chapter 675:

Ashton furrowed his brow, a hint of confusion crossing his face. “But isn’t this a clear violation of antitrust laws? They’re colluding and protecting each other.”

Abrial gave a wry smile. “They’re not amateurs, Ashton. These families have grown their businesses over decades—they know how to play the game. They don’t bother with small and medium-sized businesses or individuals. In fact, they sometimes even help struggling businesses, which has earned them a good reputation among smaller enterprises. But if a company grows large enough to threaten their influence, that’s when they act. They either pressure the company to sell for less than market value or make it so difficult for them to operate that bankruptcy becomes the only option.”

Ashton’s expression turned serious. “So you’re saying that because our company is expanding rapidly, they see us as a threat and are planning to make a move?”

Abrial nodded. “Yes. Because we acquired the assets of Sup Group, our company has now reached the level of a second-tier family. This has happened in less than two months, and the development has been incredibly rapid. So, during this period, the three major families have started making small moves against our company. Thankfully, because the Carter family has a strong foundation, these moves haven’t seriously impacted us. Still, dealing with them has been challenging, which is why I’ve been so busy lately.”

Ashton’s expression softened with gratitude. “I owe you for all the hard work, Abrial. You’ve been managing everything, and I haven’t been able to help.”

Abrial shook her head gently. “The company isn’t just yours, Ashton—it’s ours. I’m working hard to prove myself to my family, too. But because I’ve managed to counter their small moves, they’re becoming impatient. That’s why they sent someone to try buying out the company today. With the way you handled their representative, the three major families will likely hold a grudge. I’m afraid this could mean serious retaliation.”

After Abrial detailed the structure of the three major families, Ashton developed a solid grasp of the power hierarchy. What struck Ashton most was the unexpected alliance between these originally independent families, suggesting complex motives for their unity.

Although Ashton didn’t feel overwhelmed by the so-called three major families, even small irritations could become bothersome, especially when billions of dollars were involved. Externally, Ashton kept his cool, but internally, he remained on high alert.

𝖋𝖔𝖗 𝖘𝖙𝖗𝖔𝖓𝖌𝖊𝖗 𝖘𝖔𝖚𝖗𝖈𝖊: gal⸽no⸽vels⸰co⸰m

Following a leisurely coffee session and chat with Abrial, Ashton left the office and immediately reached out to Milena, his intelligence officer.

“Are you aware of the three major families in Staville?” Ashton asked directly.

Milena responded swiftly, “I’ve heard of them. Have you ruffled their feathers?”

“Watch your tongue; they’re the ones who provoked me!” Ashton replied, showing a hint of annoyance.

Milena’s tone stayed even as she asked, “Do you need me to collect information on them?”

“That’s right. I need a clear picture of their status to plan my next move. There’s no rush, though. Our main focus is still on locating Fraser. Just fit the family research into your schedule,” Ashton said.

“I already have some details on them. I’ll organize the information and send it over when I find a moment,” Milena said promptly.

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