?Chapter 1289:


    Nate’s offer was not entirely unwee. But this was a game of power, and Jonathan was not about to step into it recklessly.


    He had to factor in the forces backing ude, and more importantly, he had to be wary of Nate—who was just as likely to turn on him the moment it suited him. If Nateunched an attack from behind, Jonathan’s men would be exposed. And they were not just subordinates; they were friends who had fought beside him, men he would die to protect.


    Nate’s voice broke through his thoughts. “All your businesses will be legalized,” he said smoothly. “And I will help you establish new business channels.”


    Jonathan barely reacted. If anything, a slow, knowing smile curved his lips. “A tempting offer. Seems like you want me to risk everything I have.”


    No one handed out favors for free. Not in their world.


    And certainly not Nate.


    This deal reeked of poison—the kind that killed slowly but surely.


    Nate leaned back slightly, his gaze unreadable. “The territory in the south of the city. I want you to protect Moses.”


    Jonathan exhaled a quiet chuckle, clicking his tongue as if in thought. “What is it about Lyhaton that has everyone scrambling for a piece of it?”


    Nate met his gaze with a cryptic smile. “You should know better than any of us.”


    Jonathan’s expression barely shifted, but something in his chest tightened for the briefest second.


    A beat passed before he spoke again, his tone cool, decisive. “Fine. I will help you—but you will give me Eaton Burton.”


    Nate’s lips curled into a knowing smirk. “I am afraid you cannot afford him.” Eaton might have been cast out, but he was still a Burton, still tied to the Independent Continent.


    A liability Jonathan had no interest in owning.


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    “Then lend him to me for two days.”


    Nate rose, adjusting his suit jacket with practiced ease. “I will await your good news.”


    The meaning was clear. He agreed.


    Jonathan remained seated, watching as Nate walked away.


    For a man like Nate to seek his help, there was something deeper at y. Something Jonathan had yet to see.


    The door eased open. Bleacher stepped in, his voice steady. “Boss, Miss Hond is still waiting next door.”


    Jonathan did not turn. His response was calm, unreadable. “I know.”


    After sliding into the car, Nate leaned back against the seat, exhaling softly as he closed his eyes.


    Matias, seated in the front passenger seat, stole a nce at him through the rearview mirror before speaking in a measured tone. “Sir, Miss Hond called earlier. She wanted me to inform you that you do not need to pick her up tonight.”


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