The Rich Son-In-Law

The sun set over the Prescott mansion, casting long shadows across the grand estate. Inside, Lady Eleanor Prescott sat in her elegant armchair, her sharp eyes watching over the gathered family. The air buzzed with whispers, many speculating about Aaron's surprising show of wealth at the birthday party.

James Prescott, still bitter over the humiliation, paced back and forth. "Grandma," he said, his voice tinged with frustration, "I think I know how Aaron got the money for that necklace. Sarah's company received an anonymous deposit recently—thirty million dollars! Instead of using it to fix her failing business, she must have spent it on that gift."

Lady Eleanor's brow furrowed. "If that's true, it's disgraceful," she said coldly. "Typical behavior for someone like Aaron."

James nodded eagerly. "Who else would have helped him? Aaron's never had the means to afford something like that on his own."

Eleanor's eyes narrowed. "If what you're saying is true, there will be consequences. Sarah and her foolish husband will pay for this."

The next morning, Aaron stood in his small kitchen, flipping pancakes. The smell of butter and syrup filled the air. As he poured coffee, his phone buzzed on the counter. He wiped his hands and answered. Natalie's calm, professional voice came through. "Good morning, sir. I'm calling with an update on the Crimson Valley project. Everything is proceeding smoothly, and we've received partnership offers from several major companies."

Aaron smiled. "That's great news, Natalie. Keep me updated."

"Of course, sir," she replied. "Also, I've arranged a meeting at Apex Realty this afternoon to finalize some project details. Your presence isn't required, but your input would be greatly valued."

Aaron thought for a moment. He had spent too long in the shadows. "I'll be there," he decided.

That afternoon, Aaron arrived at Apex Realty's bustling headquarters. The lobby was alive with energy as representatives from various companies competed for partnerships in the highly anticipated Crimson Valley project. Aaron's modest attire allowed him to blend into the crowd unnoticed, but his calm confidence hinted at a man with purpose. The building itself exuded power, with high ceilings, polished marble floors, and walls adorned with sleek, modern art.

In the executive conference room, Aaron settled into his seat while Apex's senior team prepared for the meeting. Natalie leaned in and spoke quietly. "Sir, James and Jeremy Prescott are here. They've been waiting in line to pitch a partnership."

Aaron's voice was firm. "Make sure they're removed. Also, issue a directive: any company working with Apex must cut ties with the Prescott family."

Natalie's brow lifted slightly, but she nodded. "Understood. I'll handle it immediately."

James and Jeremy were finally called to the reception desk. Their forced smiles masked their anxiety as they prepared to pitch their proposal. But before they could say a word, the receptionist spoke with a neutral tone. "Gentlemen, Apex Realty has decided not to proceed with any discussions involving the Prescott family. Furthermore, we've been instructed to inform all current and future partners that collaboration with your family will be considered a conflict of interest."

James's face fell. "What? That's absurd! We came here to negotiate in good faith."

The receptionist's polite tone didn't waver. "The decision is final. Security will escort you out if necessary."

Jeremy gripped his son's arm, trying to calm him. "Let's go, James. We'll sort this out later."

James refused to move. "I demand to speak to someone in charge! This is a mistake—you can't treat us this way."

The receptionist offered a tight smile. "The matter is closed. Please leave."

Security guards stepped forward. Their presence was enough to convince Jeremy to pull his son toward the exit. As they were escorted out, Jeremy whispered, "What have we gotten ourselves into?"

James shook his head, his face pale. "I don't know, but this isn't over."

As they exited the grand building, James's mind raced. He tried to piece together the sudden hostility Apex Realty showed toward their family. Were they being targeted? How had their once-sturdy reputation crumbled so quickly? Jeremy, walking beside him, seemed equally lost in thought, his usual confident stride reduced to hesitant steps.

"This doesn't make sense," Jeremy muttered. "We didn't do anything wrong and yet they treat us so harshly."

James clenched his fists. "Something isn't right here. Who did we offend to get such treatment? Grandma won't be happy to hear this."

Later, as Aaron left the building, he got a text from Sarah. "Aaron, Grandma called an emergency meeting."

Upon arriving at the family mansion, Aaron could feel the tension in the air. Family members were chatting loudly, their voices filled with worry. Everyone was concerned about what had taken place at Apex. Ever since the announcement that Apex would only work with companies that cut ties with the Prescotts, many companies began dropping them. In just one hour, the Prescotts started losing profits at an alarming rate.

Finally, Eleanor spoke. "Silence, all of you!" she said angrily. She turned to James and Jeremy, who both had their heads lowered. "James, Jeremy, tell me what happened. How did you offend Apex for them to launch such an attack on us?"

"Granny, we didn't do anything wrong," James began, his voice defensive. "When we arrived, we waited like everyone else, but when it was our turn, we were dismissed. Then we were told that companies had to cut ties with the Prescotts to partner with Apex."

Hearing this explanation, Eleanor was confused. She felt her family was being unfairly attacked. While she was deep in thought, Bridget, one of Sarah's aunts, spoke up. "Mom, we need to find a way to get Apex off our backs. We've been losing clients and partners left, right, and center. If we don't stop this soon, we'll never recover."

Everyone understood how dire the situation was, but no one had a solution. They didn't know their offense, so how could they make amends?

"You're right, Bridget," Eleanor said. "James, Jeremy, go back to Apex and find out what is going on. If possible, reconcile."

"No, Mom," Bridget interjected. "Sending James and Jeremy back might cause more problems. We should send someone else. I nominate Sarah."

Hearing this, Sarah frowned. She knew what Bridget was playing at, and so did everyone else.

"Sarah, are you willing to go?" asked Eleanor.

Sarah was about to refuse when Aaron spoke up. "Yes, yes she is."

Sarah was shocked by Aaron's words. How could he agree on her behalf for something that was clearly going to fail?

Amanda was furious. She began screaming at Aaron. "Shut your mouth! No one asked for your opinion. Can't you see this is a family matter that doesn't concern you?"

Aaron ignored Amanda and continued speaking. "If Sarah succeeds, you must promise to let her run the project."

James stood up with a smirk. "And if she fails, she will hand her company to me and call me master."

"Sure, but the same rules apply to you. If she succeeds, you will have to give up your company." Aaron said.

James laughed rhyly. He was confident Sarah wouldn't succeed. "Fine Aaron, you've got yourself a deal." he stated confidentially. 

"Then this matter is finalized," Eleanor declared, her tone signaling the end of the discussion.