It was the following morning, and Julian sat in the CEO’s office at Nebula Group, smoking a cigarette held loosely between his fingers. Its smoke drifted upward in the still at as he waited patiently for someone’s arrival.
Esther opened the door to the CEO’s office and ushered someone in–it was Zachary, the lawyer.
Zachary was incredibly astute. He noted Julian’s serious demeanor and understood that important matters were at hand. However, he maintained his composure, settled onto the couch, and asked with a warm smile, “Is there anything I can help you with, Mr. Ziegler?”
Julian stubbed out his cigarette and replied with a nod, “I have something important that I’d like you to take care of for me.”
Zachary’s expression immediately became serious.
Julian took out a transfer agreement and said softly, “I would like to give 30% of my shares in Nebula Group to Ms. Harper, under non–marital conditions. Henceforth, Ms. Harper will possess 40% of shares in Nebula Group, establishing her as the absolute majority shareholder with sole decision–making authority.”
Zachary leaned back and exhaled deeply. It was such a big deal–Nebula Group was about to change ownership, and he would soon find himself working under someone else!
He couldn’t fathom why Julian would do such a thing in the prime of his life. It wasn’t even a matter of inheritance; it was a direct conveyance. It was sheer madness to just hand over hundreds of billions of dollars. If Dominic were to hear this right now, he would definitely be turning over in his grave!
Zachary, in his capacity as a lawyer, still advised Julian to remain calm and think twice before making such a decision.
Julian merely lowered his head and signed the agreement before pushing it toward Zachary, saying, “I’ll need your help to get this notarized once the day comes that I leave Nebula Group and Brindley.”
Zachary was momentarily stunned. Having been in this field for quite some time, he immediately grasped that only matters of mortality could prompt such a request. He wanted to console Julian but found himself at a loss for
words.
Though it wasn’t a workday, Julian stayed until the late afternoon before heading home. He still had one year left, so he resolved to cherish Willow and dedicate himself to his children for that period.



Julian handed the sparklers to the children, instructing Benjamin to watch over them while they played. He then took the string of lights from Willow and said, “I’ll take over here.”

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