"Three years ago, I finally woke up and quit gambling," Darren said, his tone sincere. "The buyer I mentioned, the one offering a billion dollars, was real. But I didn't dare sell it. I was afraid I'd fall back into gambling if I had that kind of money.

"And honestly, I feel like I'd be letting my father down."

Felix understood now. That buyer must have been tipped off by Derek, who ensured no one would use force against Darren or spread the word. Otherwise, an ordinary man like Darren would've been in serious trouble long ago.

It was clear Isabella was hearing this story for the first time as well.

"Belle," Darren continued, "this is why I'm willing to entrust this million dollars entirely to you. All I need is a monthly allowance for living expenses. No matter how persuasive I might sound, if my gambling addiction resurfaces, at least you'll be there to keep me in check."

Isabella was genuinely moved. After all, there weren't many men like him who would hand over such a fortune