"I've never been more serious," Jean-Claude replied, his tone hardening. "This is about securing our family's future. You may think you can escape your responsibilities by hiding out in this city, but you cannot outrun who you are, Pasco."
Pasco slammed his glass onto the table, the sound
reverberating through the air. "I'm not a chess piece
in your game, Father. I won't marry someone for the
sake of your business deals."
Jean-Claude's eyes narrowed. "Don't be so
shortsighted. This isn't just about business; it's about legacy, about the kind of life you can build with the resources and influence at your disposal. Or would you rather waste your potential playing the bohemian in Phnom Penh?"
Pasco stood abruptly, his chair scraping against the
floor. "You don't get it, do you? For once in my life,
I'm living for me, not for your ambitions, not for your
expectations. I won't give that up—not for you, not
for anyone."
Jean-Claude rose as well, his face impassive but his voice like steel. "You're making a mistake, Pasco. One day, you'll realize the world doesn't reward dreamers. It rewards those who seize opportunity."
Pasco's jaw tightened, but he refused to back down.
"Then I'll build my own opportunities. I don't need
you, or your deals, to define me."
For a long moment, the two men stood in silence,
locked in a battle of wills. Finally, Jean-Claude gave a curt nod. "Very well. But don't think this is over.
You're my son, Pasco, and whether you like it or not,you are part of the Lafontaine legacy. I'll be in touch." With that, Jean-Claude turned and walked away, his departure as calculated as his arrival. Pasco remained rooted to the spot, his chest heaving as he fought to steady his emotions. He knew his father well enough to understand that this was just the beginning.