Michael sneered. "Fortune favors the bold, Bane. Haven't you always wanted to take over the Aickers and replace Cedric? My father has already agreed. In fact, he's even willing to pull some strings for you—help you get in with the Golding family. So, are you in or out? Think carefully."

Bane's expression shifted, torn between hesitation and ambition.

After a long pause, he let out a sinister chuckle. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. Ruthless—just the way it should be. Fine. Once I take care of Andrew, I'll roll the dice with you and go after Tiana. But you and your father better keep your word. I don't work for free."

Michael's eyes darkened. "In Jayrodale, Lauren is fighting me for Rhodes Corporation. In Blumedale, Jameson is fighting my father for the Rhodes family throne. Those two should've been dealt with long ago, but my father and I have been waiting for the perfect opportunity.

"Tiana has always been the one standing in our way. She's the only person my father actu