?Chapter 1213:


    Teeth clenched, they navigated through the traffic, the tension thickening in the air. Richard waited until the car vanished from view, then dialed Alexander’s number.


    “Come home tonight, Alexander.”


    When Alexander stepped inside, he was met with the sight of a table brimming with dishes, several of which were made by Richard himself.


    “What’s going on?” Alexander asked, his voice a mix of surprise and curiosity—he hadn’t tasted Richard’s cooking in ages.


    Richard offered a smile, motioning for Alexander to take a seat. As he settled into his chair, Alexander realized the house was eerily quiet—the servants had all disappeared.


    The house felt hollow, empty of life and presence.


    Confusion furrowed Alexander’s brow. “What’s happening?”


    Richard uncorked a bottle of wine, his words slow and deliberate. “Alexander, I’ve never been one for many desires. My only wish has always been to be respected, to be the center of attention.”


    Alexander nodded. He knew Richard’s pride, the driving force that had kept him going through the hardest of times.


    During the darkest days when Bet Group was on the brink, Richard had nearly sumbed to despair.


    It was only when thepany rebounded, and he rose to lead themerce association, that his father found his joy again.


    “Alexander, how’s it going with Dani?” Richard asked, his tone probing.


    Alexander picked at his food, replying with an air of indifference, “Nothing’s changed. I’ve been busy, but I haven’t given up. Time will show her who truly loves her.”


    “Really?” Richard’s voice dripped with skepticism as he took another sip of wine. “But I’ve heard something different.”


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    Alexander turned his gaze to his father, waiting.


    Richard continued, “When a couple parts ways, the man often speaks with finality, while the woman might still hold out hope. But once she moves on, she thrives—unlike the man who’s stuck in the past.”


    Alexander fell silent, contemting, before asking, “Dad, what exactly are you trying to tell me?”


    Richard paused, taking another deliberate sip of wine before speaking. “What I’m saying is—if there’s no hope for reconciliation, it’s best to sever ties with the past. Only then can you embrace a fresh start.”


    Alexander was once again swallowed by silence.


    After a long pause, he whispered, “How can I sever ties with the past?”


    Richard’s voice dropped to a whisper, sharp and cold. “Eliminate Dani and take her position.”


    Alexander’s eyes flew open, shock flooding his expression.


    Though he had suspected Richard’s ns, hearing it aloud still struck him like a blow.


    His instincts screamed in rejection, the thought revolting to his very core.


    Richard’s face hardened, his words piercing the air. “Why not? Alexander, you’ve made yourself look like Cedric, yet Dani still refuses to love you. Haven’t you realized? She’ll never love you. The past is gone. You must let it go and move forward.”


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