Chapter 203

Isabella's lips twitched a bit. She never thought John, who was always scared of Mason, would actually stand up to him.

'If I told you what John and Bianca did to me, you'd probably freak out and end up in the ER again,' Isabella thought to herself, deciding to keep quiet for now.

Suddenly, an idea popped into Isabella's head. She glanced around the room, puzzled, and then asked Mason, "Didn't you tell your nephews about this? They could totally put John in his place!"

Mason just smiled and shook his head. "Forget it. John grew up with me, and his dad and uncle are always busy. He might respect them, but he doesn't fear them. If he's willing to go against me, he definitely won't listen to his dad or uncle."

"No, Mason, I'm not talking about educating John. I mean, they should really teach him a lesson. Break his legs or something! Keep him stuck at home so he can't see Bianca!" Isabella said, dead serious.

Mason opened his mouth, then gave a bitter smile. "Now I see you really don't like him."

Isabella flashed a sweet smile. John had already broken one leg in a car accident and the other in a street fight. She really wanted to kick him where it hurts and break his manhood.

Even though Mason was mad, he wouldn't go as far as breaking John's legs himself.

"I haven't told my kids and nephews about me being in the hospital. They're too busy, so let's not drag them into this. Besides, even if they came back, it wouldn't change much. I have my annual check-up around this time anyway, so I'll just think of this hospital stay as a big check-up. Don't worry too much about me. By the way, Charles said you had something to talk to me about. Now's a good time. What is it?" Mason changed the subject.

Isabella then remembered the ring Mason had sent her through Charles. She immediately asked about its origin and purpose.

Mason's face lit up with understanding. He knew Isabella would ask about it.

"That ring was left by your grandparents. It's actually a key, but I have no idea what it opens. When your grandpa gave it to me, he said none of his descendants were fit to manage the family business. He thought the family would fall apart if left to them. So, he gave the ring to me, telling me to pass it on to a Taylor who could restore the family's honor," Mason explained with a smile.

Isabella gave a wry smile. "Sounds like a secret society thing."

Mason nodded with a grin. "You're not too far off. It's like something from those novels you young folks read. This ring's a symbol, a way for your grandfather to control his loyal followers - each of the top four families has them."

Mason's words piqued Isabella's interest, but she quickly shook her head with a bitter smile.

"Forget it, Mason. Loyalty's the last thing you can rely on. My grandfather's been gone for ages. I can't guarantee this ring still holds any sway over those people," Isabella said, not taking it too seriously.

Mason got where she was coming from. He couldn't be sure if those people would still respond to the ring's call either.

"I know you want to inherit everything your grandfather left behind and bring the family's glory back. If you need my help with anything, just let me know. I'll definitely help you!" Mason said.

Seeing Isabella about to speak, Mason waved his hand to stop her. "Don't rush to refuse. Think of it as an investment. You've got more potential than your father."

He'd convinced her. She nodded appreciatively and expressed her thanks with a smile.

After spending some time at the hospital, Isabella headed back to the company since she had only taken a half-day off.

Not long after Isabella left the hospital, Michael showed up.

Mason was surprised to see him. "How did you know I was here?"

Michael smiled as he sat down next to Mason. "Did you forget our family sponsors this hospital? The director called me, saying he couldn't stand seeing you upset and asked me to come and cheer you up."

Mason smiled wryly. "You all treat me as if I were senile. It's true I'm getting on in years, but it's infuriating! Why won't anyone let me decide for myself?"

"Because we all care about you," Michael said with a smile, then his expression turned serious.

"Mason, do you want me to teach John a lesson?" Michael asked.

Mason shook his head. "Forget it. Are you planning on breaking John's legs, too?"

Michael was taken aback. "What are you talking about? Did someone else suggest breaking his legs?"

Mason found it amusing. "Isabella said the same thing when she visited me earlier. I don't know if she was serious or just trying to please me. If you think the same, then you two are on the same page."

Michael smiled. "Seems like Isabella cares about you too. Mason, I've always wondered-you know John loves Bianca, right? So why push him to marry Isabella? It's obvious she's happy with her husband."

Michael wanted to get some answers from Mason, as his father Kenna had only given him part of the story last time.