The Humiliated Son-In-Law's Revenge

Chapter 5: The Unseen Challenge

“And what makes you so sure you were sabotaged, Mr. Grey? It’s dangerous to make accusations without any evidence,” Robert said, his tone dripping with condescension.

But Daryl didn’t flinch. He knew exactly what Robert was trying to do — chip away at his confidence.

Before Daryl could respond, the door suddenly swung open, and a man stepped inside. The room fell silent — especially Robert.

“M-Mr. Davis! What an honor! You’re here!” Robert stammered, his face lighting up with forced enthusiasm as he rushed forward to shake the man’s hand.

“Mayor Williams,” Henry Davis said coolly. “I didn’t expect to see you here.”

Henry Davis was the Deputy Minister of Government — a man widely respected and known throughout the country. His unexpected presence sent a wave of shock through the room.

“Well… I was invited to join the interview panel, Mr. Davis,” Robert said, his voice tight but polite.

Daryl’s jaw clenched. He knew Robert was lying through his teeth.

“Interesting,” Henry mused, nodding thoughtfully. “I’m just here to observe. A friend of mine told me I should meet a rather… intriguing man.” His eyes shifted toward Daryl.

Daryl froze, his mind spinning. He had never met Henry Davis — not even in his previous life. So why was the Deputy Minister here… for him?

Robert noticed Daryl’s confusion, and it only fueled his irritation. He let out a mocking laugh.

“Oh, you must be mistaken, Mr. Davis. He’s not part of the interview panel. In fact, we were just about to escort him out — clearly, he’s entered the wrong room,” Robert said smoothly.

Daryl’s brow furrowed, anger rising — but before he could speak, Henry cut in.

“I don’t think so,” Henry said firmly. “He’s here for a reason. Why don’t we give him a chance, hmm?” He walked toward the back of the room, settling into a seat. “Don’t mind me — I’ll just observe.”

Robert couldn’t argue. As much as he wanted Daryl gone, there was no way he could oppose Henry Davis. But one question gnawed at him — how did Daryl even know someone like Henry Davis?

Meanwhile, Daryl’s heart raced with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Henry’s presence gave him hope — a powerful ally was watching. Whoever had arranged this… he owed them everything.

Robert returned to his seat, fingers steepled in front of him as he studied Daryl with narrowed eyes. There was something different about the young man today — a quiet confidence Robert found infuriating.

Has he really managed to connect with someone this influential? Robert’s suspicion deepened. The idea ate away at his pride. He needed to put Daryl in his place.

“Everyone ready?” Robert’s voice was sharp as the first of the examiners entered the room.

One of them nodded, his eyes flicking nervously between Daryl and Robert.

The interview began with formalities, but the tension was already thick.

“Mr. Grey,” one examiner began, flipping through Daryl’s file, “we’ve reviewed your record. Tell us — what makes you think you’re qualified for this position?”

Daryl’s calm gaze didn’t waver. A small, confident smile curled at his lips. “I’ve spent years preparing for opportunities like this. I’ve excelled in my training and education. I believe I’m ready to serve.”

The examiner didn’t look convinced. “But you’re quite young, aren’t you? What gives you the confidence to believe you have the necessary experience?”

Daryl leaned forward slightly, his voice steady. “Age doesn’t define experience — it’s about what you’ve done with the time you’ve had. And I’ve made the most of mine. My results speak for themselves.”

The room fell silent for a beat, the examiners exchanging uneasy glances. Robert’s lips thinned into a hard line. This kid is too cocky, he thought. With a subtle nod, he signaled the others — it was time to turn up the pressure.

Another examiner spoke up. “What about leadership? This role requires authority and command. You’ve never held such a position, have you?”

“No,” Daryl admitted without hesitation. “But leadership isn’t just about titles. I’ve led teams — in volunteer work, university projects, and beyond. Leadership is about understanding people and guiding them toward a goal. And I do that well.”

Skepticism flickered across the examiner’s face. “But people like you often get ahead because of who you know. How can we trust your success wasn’t handed to you?”

Daryl’s eyes stayed locked on the examiner’s. “I’ve earned every achievement. I didn’t get here through favors or connections. I’ve always made my own way.”

Robert’s frustration mounted. With another calculated nod, he set the next trap.

“Mr. Grey,” Robert’s voice was louder now, cutting through the room, “how do you respond to claims that you’re nothing but a product of nepotism? That your rise is thanks to people like me?”

The air grew tense, but Daryl didn’t flinch.

“I’d respond by saying I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished — with or without help. But I don’t owe anyone an explanation. I’m here because of my hard work, and that’s all that matters.”

Robert’s eyes narrowed. He wasn’t done. “You really think you can just walk in here and take a position you’re not qualified for?”

Daryl’s smile returned — calm, unshaken. “It’s not about what’s on paper. It’s about results. And I’ll prove I’m more than capable.”

The interview continued, the examiners firing questions designed to break him. But Daryl met each one with composure and clarity. His answers were sharp, calculated — flawless.

Robert’s frustration grew with every passing minute. He was being outmaneuvered by someone younger, bolder — and it was unbearable.

Finally, Robert couldn’t contain his irritation any longer. Leaning forward, his voice grew cold. “You talk a good game, Mr. Grey. But you’ve yet to give us one good reason why we should trust you with this responsibility.”

Silence stretched. The panel waited.

Daryl met Robert’s gaze head-on. “Because I’m not here to waste anyone’s time. I’ll prove myself every day — not with words, but with results. Trust me because I’ll deliver.”

The examiners shifted in their seats, clearly affected by his certainty. Robert’s jaw tightened. He was losing control.

But before Robert could speak again, laughter rang out from the back of the room.

“You’re impressive, young man!” Henry Davis said, his eyes gleaming with approval.

Daryl inclined his head respectfully. “Thank you, Mr. Davis.”

Robert’s heart sank. This can’t be happening.

The room’s atmosphere shifted. The other examiners grew more respectful toward Daryl, their glances frequently darting to Henry — a silent acknowledgment of the powerful man’s approval.

The interview was over, but the decision hadn’t been made yet. Robert’s stomach churned with the knowledge that his sabotage attempts had failed. Worse, Henry Davis was now keeping a close watch.

As the panel gathered their materials, one of the examiners leaned toward Robert. “We’re still going to mark him low, right? We can—”

Henry’s voice cut through the room. “I’ll be overseeing the scores, gentlemen. Let’s ensure everything remains… fair.”

Robert’s face paled. It’s over.

As Henry headed toward the door, he cast one last glance back at Robert — a silent warning.

I’m watching you.

Robert swallowed hard. He knew there was nothing more he could do.