Chapter 26: Mateo’s Quiet Strength
"Mr. Sterling," a calm voice said from the doorway. Mateo stood there, dressed casually in jeans and a hoodie, holding a stack of school books. He didn't look intimidated; he looked observant.
Vance raised an eyebrow, offering a patronizing smile. "Ah, the heir apparent. Tell your dad to take the deal, kid. He'll have more time to play catch with you."
Years ago, a comment like that would have sent Mateo into a blind rage. He would have screamed, thrown something, or run away. Instead, Mateo walked into the room, his demeanor unsettlingly composed. "My father doesn't need to sell his company to have time for me," Mateo said evenly. "He makes time. Because he's a leader here, too. I think you're confusing kindness with weakness, sir. That's a bad business strategy."
