A Second Life, A New Power novel Chapter 360

After returning to the car, Daniel asked worriedly, "Dad, what if Demi says something damaging about us to Mr. Fuller?"

While their family had little direct business with the Pitts, Derek's vast connections meant he could effortlessly cause trouble for them if he chose.

Stephen said with a darkened expression, "Demi wouldn't go that far. Blood ties are the strongest bonds in this world. Her stubbornness now is because of jealousy—she resents how we've favored Ana over her.

"We had indeed been treating Ana better than Demi. All Demi wants is for us to give her attention and care. If we treated them equally, she'd stop being angry."

He glared at Michelle and Harold in the rear seats. "You two ruined everything today. Had you not bungled it, we might be chatting with Derek and Claire in Demi's living room right now. Reflect on this. If you have another misstep, there will be consequences."

Michelle frowned and protested, "I wasn't wrong! A girl without backing has it hard in showbiz. I meant well."

Stephen snapped, "That talk might've been appreciated when she still trusted us. You said it when our relationship is tense. It only fuels her disgust."

For the first time in their marriage, Stephen thought his wife might be unwise.

"So whatever I do is wrong, is that it?" Michelle's eyes reddened as she lowered her head and said aggrievedly.

Stephen was speechless. He then turned his irritation on Harold. "Do you finally understand your mistake?"

"I… I was just concerned for Demi and for our family's reputation! She doesn't have any resources. One day she's picking through trash, and the next, she's in a luxury villa. Anyone would suspect shady dealings. She could've just explained to us, but she chose to go with these misunderstandings," Harold protested.

"Like I said, do you think she'll explain when we're at each other's throats? Even I have to swallow my pride to talk to her, and thanks to you, we got thrown out!" Stephen bellowed with a darkened expression.

But Alex interjected optimistically, "It's not a total loss, Dad. At least we know about Demi's connection with the Fuller family. If we reconcile with her, imagine the opportunities we can have with the Fullers. Our situation will turn from bad to good."