Unruffled, Kysonâs expression remained stoic; his deep blue eyes did not waver.
âYes,â he acknowledged simply.
Phillis lifted her chin, her voice tinged with condescension.
âWell then, it seems we may not be the ideal match, Mr.
Shaw.
â
Without hesitation, Kyson responded, âIf you believe Iâm unworthy of you, feel free to leave now.
â
Phillis was taken aback, not expecting him to dismiss her so bluntly.
Could it be that this man, once imprisoned, felt no desire to pursue her, a daughter of the prestigious Perez family?
She pursed her lips and spoke in a delicate voice.
âThatâs not what I meant.
Itâs our first meeting, and I just wanted to understand you better.
But, Mr.
Shaw, could you share why you were in prison?â
Kyson poured himself another glass of wine and answered nonchalantly, âI was accused of theft and of poisoning Nathan.
He caught me, beat me up, and then I ended up in a high-security prison.
I lost my position as director of the Secret Investigation Department.
â
Phillis took a deep breath, startled by Kysonâs calm recount of his past.
She suddenly found the man sitting across from her a bit intimidating and audacious.
âYou dared to cross Mr.
Payne and even tried to poison him, Mr.
Shaw? If we ever argue in the future, would you do the same to me?â
Kyson remained silent.
Phillis, trying to regain her composure, continued with a hint of arrogance, âMr.
Shaw, such a past could hinder your prospects, even as the head of the Shaw family.
It might be difficult for you to marry someone of equal status in Stastle.
â
Still, Kyson said nothing, simply listening.
Phillis masked the cunning gleam in her eyes as she added, âBut everyone makes mistakes.
Iâm willing to overlook this and consider a relationship with you, even an engagement and eventually marriage.
However, I have my conditions.
If weâre together, you must prioritize my wishes above all.
Youâll need to agree to give me 3% of Shaw Groupâs shares upon engagement, and at least 5% upon marriage.
Our first child will carry my surname; the second can have yours if there is one, but I wonât be pressured into having more children.
You must be there for me in my moments of joy and comfort me when Iâm down.
In essence, you will put me first in all things.
â
Kyson frowned as he listened.
He thought Phillis was crossing the line.
âDo you understand the significance of owning 5% of Shaw Groupâs shares? Itâs a major corporation.
â
With a casual tone, Phillis replied, âYes, Iâm aware.
Owning 5% might seem excessive, but my family holds considerable influence too.
Being a Perez, I have countless men eager to marry me.
Marrying me for such a modest price really is a deal for you.
â
Kysonâs expression turned cold and repulsed.
The blind date had spoiled his mood.
It was truly disappointing.
He remained silent, picking up the silver fork and casually sampling the assorted delicacies spread across the table.
After waiting without a word from Kyson that would flatter her, Phillisâs arrogance surfaced.
Impatiently, she demanded, âWhy are you silent? Do you think any other woman would desire a man with your past? Kyson, Iâm here willing to take a chance on you and even plan our future.
You should feel privileged.
â
Phillisâ voice was so haughty it was as if she expected him to kneel and beg for forgiveness right there.
At that moment, the door to the VIP room cracked open.
A small child peeked inside, her eyes wide with curiosity.