Chapter 538

Andrew Anderson exhaled deeply, the creases between his brows finally smoothing out.

"Don't pressure yourself too much. I'm not forcing you to make any decisions." His voice lightened. "As long as you're happy, you can do whatever you want."

He wiped his eyes quickly, careful not to break down in front of his daughter.

Evelyn Carter threw herself into her father's arms. "Thank you, Dad."

Andrew stiffened for a moment before his rough hands gently patted her back.

The rift between father and daughter had finally mended.

"Mr. Anderson, don't worry," Anthony Taylor said earnestly. "Terry can return to the hospital anytime. I'll handle the company matters separately."

Alexander Hamilton chimed in immediately, "That's right. I can take over—"

"Who asked for your input?" Andrew shot him a glare. "Even if help is needed, it'll be for Mr. Taylor. Don't think you can make my daughter owe you favors."

"It's me who owes her," Alexander admitted with a bitter smile.

Anthony patted Alexander's shoulder, sighing helplessly.

"One more thing," Andrew turned to Anthony. "We must respect Terry's wishes regarding how she's addressed."

Anthony's expression dimmed. "Of course. We'll follow her lead."

Evelyn pressed her lips together. "Thank you."

"Silly child, no need for thanks." Anthony's eyes reddened. "If you want to go back to the hospital—"

"I'll help the company through this difficult period first," Evelyn said gently. "We can discuss it after Auntie's condition stabilizes."

Anthony nodded repeatedly. "Let me know if you face any challenges."

Andrew suddenly grew serious. "I need to confirm one last time—Terry is truly your biological daughter?"

"Absolutely. We've done the paternity test."

Only then did Andrew relax, though his tone remained stern. "Acknowledging the relationship is fine, but Terry must be your only daughter. If she has to share that title with that homewrecker, forget about recognition!"

"Annabelle, she..." Anthony sighed. "We failed in raising her properly."

"Three non-negotiable terms." Andrew raised a finger. "First, Terry returns as your sole heir. She gets everything she's entitled to."

Anthony assured him instantly, "Naturally."

"If you dare favor your adopted daughter over her, I won't let it slide!"

"The inheritance division has already been notarized. If you don't believe—"

"Unnecessary!" Andrew waved him off. "Second, I still get to see my daughter after recognition."

"Of course! We'll be family—"

"We live separately." Andrew cut him off. "Different lifestyles. No need to force closeness."

Anthony glanced at Evelyn. "You can live wherever you prefer. We can buy another property if needed."

"I want to spend more time with my parents," Evelyn said softly. "Emily still needs care."

Anthony's heart ached, but he could only nod. "Very well. The hospital makes visits convenient."

Andrew suddenly pointed at Alexander. "Third, he stays away from Terry!"

Alexander straightened his posture. "Uncle Anderson, I know I was wrong."

"Then keep your distance!" Andrew snapped. "If not for you, would she have suffered so much?"

He turned back to Anthony. "This is the most crucial term. No agreement, no deal!"