A Vow of Deception, A Vow of Revenge novel Chapter 161

"He acts like a spoiled rich kid on the surface, but he's got a bit of backbone after all," Tyson said, a note of approval in his voice. "That's why I think it's worth a try."

Celia's heart was pounding in her throat.

She had always assumed that even if Tyson decided to work with the Quincy family, he'd steer clear of Jude.

But now, to her shock, Tyson was partnering with Jude directly.

"But… I heard most of Quincy Corporation's business is handled by Mr. Jackson these days. The chairman seems to be grooming him as the successor," Celia managed, trying to keep her panic in check. "Wouldn't it be better to work with Mr. Jackson?"

"You think I haven't tried?" Tyson scoffed. "He won't even meet with me. Probably thinks I'm beneath him, but doesn't want to make it obvious—so he sent Jude to brush me off instead. Only, I doubt he realized his little brother isn't so simple."

Celia watched his expression closely. "So… what did Jude say to you?"

Tyson was still in a decent mood and patiently recounted their conversation over dinner.

When he finished, he added, "Now that I've got Jude on my side, I might actually stand a chance against Elvis."

As soon as he said it, his phone rang.

It was a business associate, hesitantly calling to cancel all contracts with Goodwin Enterprises. The man assured Tyson the penalty fees would be fully paid.

Tyson's good mood vanished.

Another partner pulling out.

Was this Elvis's doing again?

This company had worked with Goodwin Enterprises for years. Maybe that was why the man gave Tyson a subtle warning before hanging up.

"Whatever happens, you don't want to cross the Thornes. Mr. Goodwin, you'd better come up with something fast."

Celia, still anxious about Jude, hadn't noticed Tyson's mood shift. When he hung up, she started fussing again, "I really think you should reconsider working with Jude…"

"Do I even have a choice now?" Tyson suddenly snapped. "The Quincy family is all I've got left! Or do you want me to just stand by and watch Goodwin Enterprises get crushed by the Rogers and Thorne families?"

Celia shrank back, startled by his anger. She instinctively wrapped her arms around her stomach and fell silent.

"And why are you so against my working with Jude? What, do you know him or something?" Tyson's voice was cold. "Have you met him?"

"No!" Celia blurted, her denial almost too quick. "How could I possibly know him? I've never even seen him!"

But the more she protested, the more suspicious Tyson became.

Forget it. Right now, nothing Celia said was believable.

He'd have to find time to ask Jude himself.