Chapter 176 Rejected By All

• Caleb's expression stiffened as he processed Aidan's bold demand. Asking for 200,000 without hesitation? It left a sour taste in his mouth. His family wasn't like the Whitewoods, swimming in wealth and privilege. His monthly allowance barely scratched 100,000, and even the 100,000 he'd handed over before had been painstakingly saved from his New Year's gift money. Now, Aidan wanted double that? Did he think I was some kind of walking bank?
• Aidan's impatience grew as the silence dragged on. His brows knitted in irritation. "What's the holdup? Don't tell me this is an issue."
• "Aidan," Caleb began hesitantly, his discomfort evident. "It's just... Well, some relatives from out of town are visiting, and my dad's insisting I clear out this room for them. So, you see…" His voice trailed off as he struggled to find the right words. Aidan's face immediately fell, his anger surging up like a tidal wave. He had always considered Caleb a close friend, yet here he was, being asked to leave. His pride couldn't tolerate such an affront. "There's no need to make this awkward. Linara and I will leave. We won't be a burden," he snapped, his voice sharp with irritation.