Chapter 187

"Godfather, there was a small disagreement in our family today. My father isn't in the best mood, so his temper is a bit short. Please don't take it personally!"

Vincent halted, casting a disdainful glance at Cassandra. The warmth he once held for her was gone. "You're overthinking, Cassandra. Why would I be upset with your father? Go back to your parents. And stop calling me 'godfather.'"

Cassandra's breath hitched. "Are you... disowning me?"

Vincent's voice turned icy. "Our relationship was built on lies. This isn't about wanting you or not. Move aside. I have somewhere to be."

Everything Cassandra had carefully constructed was collapsing before her eyes. Desperation crept into her voice. "What about my role...?"

Vincent smirked. "I've seen your past work. Your acting is atrocious. I'd never cast someone like you. Go fool someone else."

Panic surged through her. She clutched at his sleeve. "You can't leave! You promised me that role! You can't just take it back!"

He shoved her away without mercy. "If your mother hadn't lied, claiming you were my secret daughter, I would never have offered it. I only did it out of guilt. Now that I know you're Gregory's blood, there's no reason to entertain you further."

Cassandra couldn't let him slip away. This role was her biggest break—her name was already splashed across social media. Being dropped now would humiliate her in the industry.

Her mind raced. A quick glance confirmed the hallway was empty. In a heartbeat, she dropped to her knees, gripping his pants. "But I am your daughter! My mother only said those things to calm her husband! We did a DNA test—don't you remember?"

Vincent stiffened, scanning the area. The last thing he needed was witnesses. "Get up! This is beneath you!"

Tears streamed down her face. "Not until you acknowledge me as your daughter!"

Exasperated, he relented. "Fine, fine. Get up, Cassandra. We'll discuss this—"

"Vincent!" A sharp voice sliced through the corridor.

He froze. Slowly, he turned, paling at the sight of his wife. "Natasha... What are you doing here?"

Natasha Blackwood stormed forward, jabbing a finger at him. "Oh, wonderful! A secret daughter, all grown up! How long were you planning to hide this?"

"It's not what you think! She's lying—"

Vincent's fear of his wife was legendary. His early career had thrived on her family's backing, and she controlled their finances. He'd never dared cross her.

Cassandra sensed disaster. She scrambled to her feet, ready to bolt.

"Don't you dare move, you little snake!" Natasha snarled.