141.

Gesturing towards the study room, Damon silently invited his father into the private sanctum where they could have a candid conversation away from prying eyes. Thomas, his expression tinged with concern, nodded in understanding, following Damon's lead as they retreated to the secluded space.

As soon as Damon closed the door behind them, the room seemed to exhale a sigh of contained tension. It was within these walls that father and son could speak freely, unburdened by the judgment of others. Thomas wasted no time, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and apprehension, as he sought to unravel the mystery that lay before them.

"What happened? You seem so tense, and Riya appears genuinely frightened. I can sense that something has gone awry. Tell me, how did Kylie end up with the project when it was meant to be yours?"

Damon took a deep breath, his eyes locking with his father's gaze. He knew that the time for evasion had passed; the truth, though difficult, had to be shared. With a