A subtle gleam of amusement twinkled in Raymond's eyes as he watched Lance, waiting to see how he would respond. "From where I stand, it seems like Lance should really step down as CEO. "It's clear that Lance is struggling to manage both his divorce and the company. He simply can't handle both responsibilities," Raymond added, emphasizing the word 'divorce' with clear intent. He recalled that Steven had mentioned the CEO role was given to Lance mainly because of Addison. Now that a divorce seemed inevitable, Lance couldn't possibly keep his position. Though Raymond didn't fully grasp why Addison had played such a role in Lance's promotion, it didn't matter to him. This was a prime opportunity to push Lance out of the CEO chair. Steven, still simmering with anger, turned toward Raymond after hearing his words. "And who exactly do you think should take the job? Is there someone better than Lance?" he demanded. Raymond's excitement surged. "Well, I think I have quite a bit of experience ... You know I used to run a pharmaceutical company. It wasn't on the scale of Johnston Enterprise, but it had a strong reputation in Halton." Steven quickly realized his son's motives. It was clear Raymond was after the CEO position for himself. "What do you think, Dad?" Raymond asked, his tone eager. Lance smirked inwardly. Steven paused, then silently glanced at Lance before speaking. "Come with me," he ordered firmly. He stood and walked toward the door, with a servant stepping forward to open it. Lance, expression unreadable, exchanged a brief glance with Raymond before following Steven. Teagan, leaning in toward Raymond, whispered, "What's going on? Why did Dad call Lance out like that?" Raymond, who had seemed so confident just moments ago, was left puzzled by his father's sudden behavior. He squinted, his mind racing as he watched them walk away. He didn't answer Teagan's question. What is that old man thinking? I'm the perfect candidate, ready to take the position, yet Dad hasn't responded to my offer. Perhaps he intends to comfort his beloved grandson instead. After all, Lance's position is now at risk, and a young man like him, so concerned with appearances, wouldn't be happy about losing his place. Raymond leaned back in his chair, his lips curling into a smile as he relaxed. All I have to do now is wait. In the living room, Steven sat gravely on the sofa, with Lance beside him. Breaking the silence, Steven's voice was firm. "I won't say much, but you cannot divorce Addison." Lance frowned. "Why not?" "No reason. Consider it an order," Steven replied, his tone leaving no room for argument. Lance's face darkened with frustration. "What are you getting at?" "You heard what your Uncle Raymond said earlier. It's obvious he's eyeing the CEO position," Steven explained, his tone steady. "He can't compete with me," Lance responded, his words final. "He may not, but you've given him an opening. If you let him in, you'll face the consequences of losing control," Steven countered. Lance remained silent, considering his words carefully. After a long pause, Steven spoke again. "If you don't divorce Addison, Johnston Enterprises will continue to thrive, and you'll keep your position as CEO." Lance's eyes widened in disbelief. "Are you blackmailing me?" he asked, his voice sharp. "This is simply an option for you to consider," Steven said coldly, offering no further explanation. Steven leaned back, his gaze unflinching as he studied Lance. Lance's expression shifted, his thoughts racing. It was clear his grandfather understood him well. Since Steven had laid it out like this, there was no room to negotiate. Not divorcing Addison? Lance's mind narrowed on the idea. Staying married to her forever was out of the question, but postponing the divorce seemed like a practical compromise for now. Over the years, Lance had secured enough influence within the company. Once the Levosulin issue was resolved, he'd be in a stronger position. He could secure the CEO role permanently, and at that point, he would be free from the constraints of his ridiculous marriage. But for now, challenging his grandfather's authority was too risky. Refusing the CEO position would likely mean losing it altogether. "I agree," Lance finally said, his voice cold. Steven gave a satisfied nod. "Once you make a decision, stick with it. "Enough of this. We have guests waiting. Let's go back inside," Steven added, standing up. Lance stepped forward to assist him. As they entered the room, Raymond, his face smug, looked up at them. "So, Dad, have you made up your mind?" Steven's expression darkened. "The CEO position of Johnston Enterprise is not going to you." Raymond's smugness vanished, replaced by fury. "What? Why is Lance better than me? You're willing to hand the company over to him, but not to me?" Addison, standing by the door, quietly overheard the conversation. It seems like I arrived at a rather inconvenient time. From the heated voices inside, it's clear things aren't going well. I'm not part of the Johnston family anymore; should I step in now? It felt awkward, but she wondered if it would be even more awkward to leave. Steven shook his head, his voice firm. "Since I didn't give you the position before, I'm not giving it to you now. There's no further discussion." Raymond, furious, stormed toward his father. Lance stood tall, his expression cold as he casually remarked, "There are guards outside." Raymond clenched his teeth in anger, barely managing to speak. "Johnston Enterprise will fall apart under your leadership." Lance smirked, standing confidently. "Really? We'll see if it falls apart." "Ms. Daves?" A voice interrupted from outside. "Lana?" Addison froze, her heart sinking. Of all the times to be seen, now was the worst moment. Lana had come upstairs and spotted her—there was no escaping this. "Ms. Daves, why don't you come in? Mr. Steven and Mrs. Marilyn are waiting for you," Lana called out warmly, stepping toward the door."I'll come in later," Addison quickly replied, blocking the door from opening. She didn't want to get involved in their mess. She couldn't care less about who became the CEO. Lana hesitated but said nothing. Before she could react, the door swung open, and Addison found herself face to face with Lance. Lance's gaze swept over her, noting her simple white dress, her long hair flowing gracefully. She looked pure and serene. A brief flash of mockery crossed Lance's face. Is she trying to copy Virginia?