Daniel's POV
I sit calmly, facing my father across the luxurious office. Alexander Hale — the great, untouchable Hale patriarch — watches me with sharp eyes that haven't softened once since I walked in. I already know what he wants. It's always the same conversation, and honestly, I'm too tired to argue again.
Lucas stands beside me, posture straight, eyes lowered, not daring to look at my father. The silence between us feels heavy.
Alexander's gaze shifts to Lucas, cold and cutting.
"You can go."
Lucas glances at me. I give a small nod, and he quietly leaves. The door closes, and the room falls into complete silence again.
I rest my arm on the couch, watching Alexander carefully.
"So, Dad," I say evenly. "What do you want to talk about this time? I thought we already finished this topic."
He leans back, his expression calm but his tone sharp.
"Daniel, you're my only son. I never thought you'd disappoint me like this."
I meet his gaze, unflinching.