?Chapter 936:


    He manufactured augh, brittle and hollow. “Noah, what exactly are you suggesting?”


    Noah remained silent for a moment. His gaze locked onto Hailey, his voice unnervingly measured. “As it happens, there’s an important matter I need to address with both of you.”


    Hailey was paralyzed, her blood turning to ice in her veins.


    Forest’s difort intensified. He sculpted another rigid smile. “Indeed? And what is it you want to talk about? We’re listening intently.”


    Noah reclined slightly in his chair. “I wish to discuss divorce with Ms. Burgess.”


    His deration struck like lightning, stunning the room into profound, disbelieving silence.


    Hailey’splexion drained to baster, her mind refusing to process his devastating words.


    But Noah continued speaking, seemingly oblivious to the emotional devastation he had just unleashed.


    “Three years ago, when Iy critically ill in Zupren, Ms. Burgess nursed me back to health. I owe her my existence. To repay herpassion, and to help the struggling Burgess Group, I married her. Yet throughout these three years, no authentic love has blossomed between us. The Burgess Group now thrives independently. My obligation stands fulfilled.”


    Hailey could restrain herself no longer. She leapt from her chair. “No! I refuse a divorce!” Tears cascaded down her flushed cheeks.


    She lunged toward Noah, clutching his arm desperately with both hands. “Noah! Please—is this because of my pregnancy? Are you still angry with me?”


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    She mistakenly assumed his bitterness stemmed from the child not being his own.


    “I’ll terminate the pregnancy! I’ll go to the hospital immediately! We can conceive together—a child you truly desire, alright? I’ll fulfill any demand. Just don’t abandon me! I beg you!”


    She copsed into uncontroble sobs, her mascara-streaked face the portrait of absolute heartbreak and desperation.


    Noah’s forehead creased deeply, his eyes reflecting nothing but cold contempt.


    He thrust her away—with such force that she staggered backward, nearly losing her bnce.


    “Ms. Burgess, maintain some dignity.” Noah’s voice sliced through the air like a steel de.


    Forest, witnessing his daughter’s humiliation, finally snapped. He crashed his fist against the table and surged to his feet, silverware rattling from the impact.


    “Noah! How dare you? Do you consider the Burgess family your ythings? My daughter isn’t some disposable asset you acquire and discard whenever you want!”


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