The room erupted into chaos.
The Smiths and the senior members of the Evans clan were in disbelief.
Had Edwin really married amidst all these unresolved issues?
Did he no longer care about the future of the Evans Group and its stocks?
Edwin stood up slowly, gripping the edge of the conference table, his expression cold and defiant.
âIâll let fate decide the future of the Evans Group at this point.
If I end up impoverished, at least I have my wife to support me.
â
Alexis raised an eyebrow at his comment.
The nerve of him, expecting Laura to provide for him!
One of the elders from the Evans clan clutched his chest in shock, quickly given a heart relief pill by someone nearby.
Edwinâs gaze was fixed on Vanessa, who was visibly shaken by his actions.
She couldnât believe what was happening.
It dawned on her that Edwin had never intended to marry her, that his plans to leave her had been in the works for a long time.
Edwinâs expression turned scornful.
âVanessa, thereâs no room for negotiation between us now.
In Duefron, only one family will standâeither the Evans or the Smiths!â
With those final words, he left the room abruptly.
âEdwin!â Vanessa called out after him, but he didnât look back.
She stood frozen, completely taken aback by this unexpected turn of events.
Just as she thought of following him, her uncle Weldon stood up furiously and slapped her across the face, his voice filled with anger.
âHavenât you embarrassed yourself enough? Youâve put your family in such a tough spot over a man.
It seems my teachings were wasted on you!â
Weldon turned to leave, but Vanessa grabbed his arm, pleading, âUncle Weldon, please, let me talk to Edwin properly!â
Weldon, consumed by disgrace, slapped her again, his voice dripping with scorn.
âI hope this slap brings you to your senses.
Itâs not that youâre unworthy of Edwin, but that he simply doesnât care for you.
He chose to marry someone else over you, someone totally worthless.
And if youâre wondering why, itâs because heâs no better than her!â
Before Weldon could say more, a cup of hot tea splashed in his face.
Shocked, he stood rigid, unable to comprehend who would dare to do such a thing to him.
Alexisâ glare was intense as she confronted the man.
âMr.
Smith, be careful of what you say,â she said sharply.
She walked towards him, her expression cold yet composed.