The Prison-Made Queen novel Chapter 385

As the youngest son, Clive had grown up spoiled; seeing Hackett refuse to help and—in his eyes—lie to him, his temper flared instantly. He glared at Hackett, his tone losing all respect.

"Dad, if you don't want to help, fine. But why lie to me? I know you've never supported my career, but now that I'm in a crisis, are you really going to just watch me die?"

Hackett's face darkened. "I am not joking with you! The company has had consecutive losses on several recent projects, and the bank has been delaying our loan approval. The family truly has no money right now!"

Clive didn't believe a word of it. "I don't believe you! You're just biased! When Josiah or Zeus ask for money, you never refuse. But when it's me, there are all these excuses!"

He slammed his hand on the desk, his voice rising to a shout. "I don't care! You have to give me the money today! Otherwise, I'll never come back to this house again!"

"You!" Hackett turned iron-grey with rage, his fingers trembling.

Just then, Zadie, hearing the commotion, hurried into the room. "What's wrong? Why are you arguing?"

Clive turned to his mother, his tone softening slightly but still aggressive. "Mom, my company needs funds. Dad refuses to invest. You say something!"

Zadie sighed, trying to mediate gently. "Clive, the family really is going through a difficult time. Your father isn't lying to you..."

Hearing this, Clive snapped completely. He flung her hand away, glaring at Zadie with disappointment and fury. "Mom! Even you? I'm out there working myself to death, and this is how you treat me?"

His voice turned shrill and uncontrolled. "Fine! If you don't consider me your son, then there's no need for me to come back!"

Startled by his sudden roar, Zadie stumbled back. Her face went pale, her chest heaving violently for a few seconds before her eyes rolled back, and she collapsed, fainting dead away.

Clive clenched his fists, panic and anger warring in his heart, overshadowed by a regret he dared not admit. But proud as he was, how could he bow his head and admit fault? He wanted to follow the ambulance to the hospital, but remembering Hackett's vicious words, he hesitated.

After a moment of indecision, Clive gritted his teeth, turned around, and stormed out of the house, slamming the door behind him.

...

Outside the villa, the cold wind howled.

Clive stood by the roadside, watching the ambulance scream into the distance. A hollow feeling spread through his chest. He pulled out his phone, wanting to call Hackett to ask about his mother's condition. His finger hovered over the dial button, but in the end, he couldn't bring himself to press it.