The news was blaring from the television in the Jacobson residence’s first-floor living room.

“This afternoon, a severe traffic accident occurred in Yorsh City. Now, let’s turn to our on-site reporter for the latest updates.”

“Good afternoon, viewers. It’s currently 4:15 pm, and I’m reporting from the highway in Yorsh City.

“At approximately 3:40 pm, a local resident called emergency services about a serious crash. As you can see, a car collided with the right-side guardrail, sustaining significant damage. The driver was critically injured and has been rushed to the hospital.

“Further down the road, the left-side guardrail appears to have been breached. Tire marks suggest that another vehicle veered off the cliff. Rescue teams are currently conducting emergency operations…”

Ralph furrowed his brows as he stared at the screen.

“Grandpa, you’re back?” Stephen walked in, tossing his car keys onto the table.

Ralph turned to him and asked, “That accident wasn’t just a coincidence, was it? Was it James?”

Stephen rubbed his temple, exhaustion evident in his posture. He sank onto the couch.

“Yeah.”

“And I heard Samuel fell off a building?”

Stephen replied in a deep voice, “Yeah.”

Ralph frowned as his gaze fixed on the flickering news broadcast, his thoughts unreadable.

A housekeeper arrived, setting down a steaming cup of tea. Stephen lifted it, taking a slow sip.

“You need to break up with Tessa.”

Stephen carefully placed the porcelain cup against the saucer. A shadow passed over his pitch-black eyes. He said nothing.

Ralph sighed and continued, “You shouldn’t have dragged the Yates family into

your war with James. If he can’t hurt you, he’ll go after her instead.”

Stephen murmured absentmindedly, offering no real response.

Ralph added, “You and Tessa only have a verbal marriage agreement. Thankfully, nothing’s official yet, so cutting ties won’t be difficult. A clean break proper compensation to the Yates family, and a personakapology should settle things. They’ understand.” swnovel

Cutting ties won’t be difficult? Stephen let out a soft, bitter laugh, but there was no amusement in his eyes.

“How am I supposed to let her go?”

Ralph’s gaze locked onto him, studying his expression. “You’ve really fallen for her?”

Ralph wasn’t sure about Stephen’s feelings for Tessa. He had always assumed this was just another strategic alliance, nothing more.

Stephen’s chest felt tight, and his breathing was uneven. He lowered his gaze in silence.

Ralph saw right through him and let out a long sigh.

“You’re a fool in love. You’re nothing like your father, but you remind me a little of myself.”

Then, his voice hardened. “But you have to cut ties with her, no matter what. You know exactly what James is capable of. He spent years in Arcton, rising to power under Crantwood’s most ruthless crime syndicate.

“He has weapons and mercenaries at his disposal. That man will do anything, no matter how insane. If

Tessa stays with you, she may not live to regret it. I’m sure you wouldn’t want that to happen, right?

In

“Samuel got lucky this time and survived. But if he hadn’t? Do you think Tessa would ever forgive you or the Jacobson family? This afternoon’s crash was just James’ opening move. Stephen, if you love Tessa, then protect her. Don’t let her become collateral in your fight.” swnovel

Stephen’s eyes reddened, and his breath caught in his throat.

He wanted to retort, but his vision blurred with the memory of what had happened that afternoon-the screech of tires, bullets tearing. through the air, and the way one had missed Tessa by mere inches. If it

had been just a little closer, Tessa could have died. swnovel

The words Stephen wanted to say never left his lips. He stayed silent for a long

time after.