?Chapter 498:


    No one dared utter a word. Nobody wanted to end up like Carter and his grandsons.


    Trying to ease the tension, one of the elders forced a stiff smile. “Cole, we’re just here to check up on your condition. That’s really all.” Another quickly added, “Exactly. We’re just d you’re up and about again.”


    A third nodded in agreement. “That’s right, Cole. You should get some rest now.”


    Their voices sounded overly eager to please.


    Cole’s mouth twitched into a barely-there, detached smile. “Then stay if you like. I’m heading out.”


    Cole turned toward Elliana and spoke softly, “Let’s go.”


    With a polite bow to the elders, Elliana began to pull Cole’s wheelchair out of the hall.


    Watching them disappear down the corridor, Ruben let out a heavy sigh. They were so simr—relentless, sharp, and both blessed with a rare determination. What a pity they were getting divorced.


    Deep down, Ruben nursed a personal wish. He could see how much Cole cared for Elliana, and he hoped Elliana wouldn’t let Cole’s illness drive her away. Still, if Cole truly wanted the divorce, there was nothing he could do to intervene. Despite Elliana’sck of conventional beauty, her talent and potential guaranteed she’d thrive no matter what path she chose. It wouldn’t be right to tie her down for the rest of her life.


    As soon as Cole left, a wave of relief swept over the family elders. They stood up, bid their farewells to Ruben, and left one after another. Ruben made his way back to his quarters, with Emmanuel quietly keeping himpany.


    Only Bertram and Irene remained in the conference room.


    Bertram intentionally stayed behind with Irene, wanting a private conversation with her.


    M0re detailz at g??l??ovels.??????


    Under Bertram’s steely gaze, Irene squirmed, her nerves unraveling. Unease gnawed at her, and she couldn’t shake the fear that he’d uncovered her secret plot to have Cole killed.


    “Bertram, is there something you need to say to me?” Irene asked, her voice barely above a whisper.


    Bertram’s eyes bore into her. “Tell me honestly, do you really want Jason to take Cole’s ce?”


    “I…” A jolt of panic shot through Irene. Words caught in her throat. She had no idea how to answer. Bertram and Jason both held tightly to the family’s traditions. Bertram himself had always epted Jarrett’s authority, while Jason respected Cole as the rightful leader. Neither had ever tried to challenge the family’s established order. If Bertram ever learned what she’d done, his rage would be boundless, and divorce would almost certainly follow. Losing her marriage wasn’t something she could risk.


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