When the Dead Still Call novel Chapter 10

Chapter 10: The Worst Contract Ever

Suddenly, Amelia’s mind snapped back to the contract she had signed long ago. She pulled out her phone and stared at the document once again, her heart sinking deeper with each line she read. It truly was the worst contract she had ever encountered.

No wonder her so-called “loving family” had crafted it—this had been a trap from the very beginning. Back then, she had cared so deeply about family ties that she hadn’t noticed the warning signs lurking beneath their smiles.

But now, with everything laid bare, Amelia was determined to confront the situation directly. She had planned to return home anyway; there were loose ends that needed tying up. And since they were so eager to see her back, she would oblige them. Hopefully, they would regret underestimating her resolve.

Jeremy noticed the flicker of unease crossing Amelia’s face and gently asked, “What’s going on?”

Without a word, Amelia handed him her phone. Jeremy’s long fingers drummed thoughtfully on the armrest of his chair as he scanned the contract displayed on the screen.

“A ten-year agreement,” he murmured, eyebrows knitting together. “If you break it, there’s a 500-million penalty fee. Plus, the company gains full control over all your projects.” He snorted in disbelief. “Your family basically signed you over as their servant, didn’t they?”

Amelia’s expression remained steady, almost indifferent. “They never treated me like family.”

Jeremy looked up at her, concern softening his gaze. “Want me to handle this for you?”

She shook her head firmly. “No. I want to see just how shameless they can be. I’ll go back tomorrow.”

He nodded. “Alright. If you need anything, just call.”

“Thanks,” she replied with a small, grateful smile.

Without delay, Amelia responded to their message, confirming that she would return the next day without fail. The Nygards read her reply and exchanged satisfied glances, pride gleaming in their eyes as if the victory was already theirs.

***

The following morning, Amelia stepped through the grand front doors of the Nygard Residence, dressed simply in casual clothes that belied the storm brewing beneath her calm exterior. The polished marble floors glistened under the soft light filtering through tall windows, while the faint scent of fresh flowers lingered in the air.

In the spacious living room, the Nygards awaited her arrival. Laid out on the glossy wooden table was a stock transfer agreement, ominous in its presence.

Maxwell frowned, breaking the tense silence. “Do you really think Amelia’s trying to play us?”

“She wouldn’t dare,” Marcelo sneered, adjusting his gold-rimmed glasses. “Not if she wants to avoid a lawsuit.”

Raymond’s tone was colder still. “Exactly. That brat’s getting worse by the day. Once she signs this stock transfer, we’ll call the media and sever all ties. We don’t need her embarrassing us any longer.”

Just then, Amelia entered, her eyes sweeping over the trio with a mocking smile curving her lips. “So, you finally decided to see me,” she said coolly.

Raymond slammed his coffee cup down, irritation flashing in his eyes. “You came back, huh?”

“Enough with the theatrics,” Marcelo cut in sharply. “Today, you sign this stock transfer agreement, or we’ll see you in court.” He tapped the contract menacingly.

Emery forced a false, sweet smile. “Amelia, we’re family. Why make things ugly? Hand the shares over to your brother; the company will thrive.”

Amelia picked up the contract and glanced over it, her mind racing. So this was their plan all along—to strong-arm her into surrendering her shares. As if she would ever comply.

“Grandpa gave me these shares,” she said firmly, meeting their eyes. “I’m not signing.”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify