Feeling the sting of Tak-hyeon's gaze, Sang-jong turned his head, and Tak-hyeon spoke.

"Do you not know what Ilhyeon Construction's share price is at present?"

"What good would knowing that do? Whether it rises or falls hardly matters. Isn't that right, Brother?"

Sang-jong turned to Mun-jong, seeking agreement.

Mun-jong said nothing, thinking the arrow might turn on him next.

Because he didn't know his own affiliate's share price either.

When Mun-jong offered nothing, Sang-jong turned instead to Jeong-eun.

"Do you know?"

"Why are you dragging me into this when I'm sitting here minding my own business?"

Jeong-eun shot him a glare as he tried to pull her under with him like a drowning man.

"I know it."

"You know?"

"Yes, I know. So stop asking."

Irritated at his persistence, Jeong-eun snapped the words out and turned away.

What do I do if Father actually asks me the number…

Heart in her throat, Jeong-eun prayed Tak-hyeon's question wouldn't turn toward her.

Sang-jong's face reddened, evidently believing he was the only one who didn't know.

Tak-hyeon looked at him and delivered his verdict.

"That is precisely why you'll never amount to anything."

"Father, I—"

"Enough. I expected nothing of you anyway."

I expected nothing of you landed harder on Sang-jong than disappointment ever could have.

Whether or not he knew how it struck him, Tak-hyeon turned his head to Seong-ho.

"What was the rights offering price?"

"Three thousand five hundred won."

"You burned 400 billion at 3,500 won?"

"Yes."

"And it's become 12,000?"

"From the current mood, it looks likely to go further."

"So 400 billion has become 1.6 trillion."

Tak-hyeon let out an amused laugh and rose from his seat.

"I hear there are a great many interesting stories coming out of Ilhyeon Heavy Industries. I'm watching with interest, so do it well."

"Yes. I'll do everything I can to keep bringing you good news."

"Good. See yourselves out, then."

Tak-hyeon looked down at Seong-ho with something like approval and left.

"We'll be going as well, then."

Once Tak-hyeon had gone, Gyeong-eun was the first to announce her departure, and she…