My new objective popped into view.
Compared to the others, this one was too easy.
"I came, just like you asked."
He looked me over from head to toe, not a sign of happiness at seeing his only son after all these years.
Some father he is. If not for Ace's memories, I wouldn't even believe they were related — the way he looked at me was pissing me off.
Those were the eyes of people who love nothing but themselves.
"I heard you've awakened your powers."
"Yes, Father. I was lucky."
Daniel set his pen down with a soft click.
"Sit." He gestured toward the chair opposite him.
The cold leather pressed against my back as I sank into the chair.
For a few seconds, all I heard was the faint hum of the air conditioner and the distant ticking of a clock.
He broke the silence. "Strange. I used to be able to read you like an open book. Now... I can't see through you at all."
Normally, I would just activate the Ace Mercer card and be done with it but this was the perfect chance to insert my character development.
"Three years stuck in a bed… that's more than enough time to change a person."
He nodded slowly. "You're right. I can't even begin to imagine what you've been through."
[Mission Reward: Acting Up Card]
Looks like the gamble paid off. I can finally ditch this body's leftover personality.
"But in the end, it made you stronger," he added, as if that justified everything
His comment almost made me laugh. Not once did he even pretend to care about his son.
"What's your plan now?" He inquired.
Not the question I was expecting, but best to play it safe.
"I'm not sure yet… perhaps enjoy life for a while."
I watched him tap his fingers on the desk repeatedly before sliding a hand into the drawer.
A long envelope came out, its edges scraping the wood as he pushed it toward me.
"What's this?" I peeled it open, slowly enough to hear the faint tear of paper.
Inside was a single document.
"Zero percent?"
The words slipped out of me before I could stop them.
"I'm not your real father, Ace. Your mother… was unfaithful to me." His face held no rage, only indifference.
I was equal parts speechless and entertained. Who would've guessed this body's mother pulled off the most cliche rich-wife affair plot straight out of a soap opera?
"You're taking it better than I expected," he added after hearing no response from me.
I placed the paper down calmly. This wasn't a lost cause yet.
"My mother cheated on you, and I feel bad. But you're still the man I've looked up to since I was a kid. Knowing we're not blood-related doesn't change how I see you."
I triggered my ability, hoping to take advantage of his sentimental side.
Nothing. Figures — my ability doesn't work as well on guys. Or maybe he just had too many brain cells to fall for it.
"You're right. Her infidelity isn't your fault. In a way, we're both victims. But I still can't let you inherit the company. It's my family's legacy after all."
Got to admit, his reasoning made sense. If I were in his position, I wouldn't hand over a single cent to the child born from my wife's betrayal.
That was like being sucker punched by two generations.
But completing my main mission remained a priority. To continue my investigation, staying in this household would be more advantageous.
"So… are you going to kick me out just like that? I'm still your son on paper."
"I already talked this over with my lawyers, and I don't want this scandal to go public. So just sign a waiver acknowledging that you're aware of it and that you forfeit any claim to the inheritance."
"And you expect me to just say yes?"
I was in disbelief. Did he really think I was some kind of fool who would just roll over and happily accept his one-sided offer?
"I've already given you more than enough—paid for your schooling, let you live a life of luxury for years, and even covered your hospital bills. You should be grateful."
His words might have worked if I were the Ace who actually experienced all that.
But that so-called luxurious life was nothing but images to me .
At the same time, I began to suspect that he was the one who didn't want me to be cured. It just made perfect sense.
"It's not about being grateful—it's about my right. Even if we're not blood-related, I can still fight this in court."
His expression darkened.
"Are you really going to make this more difficult?" he asked, barely able to keep his composure in check.
"Not really. But if you were in my position, would you just agree?"
He did not say anything and just played with his pen.
"What do you want?" He forced the word out.
"You're the businessman here. Put something on the table, and then we'll talk."
Silence stretched— neither of us was willing to back down.