?Chapter 230:


    Charles tapped his cane once more, lightly yet firmly, underscoring his words. “Rosanna’s father did me a significant favor years ago — that’s the foundation of your arranged marriage. Vince, when you marry her, your loyalty must never waver. You will fulfill your duty as a husband.”


    Vince pressed his lips tightly together, his face growing pale and firm.


    “Speaking of Rosanna,” Charles said earnestly, not caring about Vince’s sour expression, “isn’t she studying jewelry design? The Ward family owns a prominent jewelry business. Have her gain experience there — it’s valuable for our family. The jewelry market hastely been dominated by Radiant Jewels and Annie Crystal. It’s high time we reimed our position.”


    Gavin nodded firmly. “Vince, guide Rosanna wisely. Our family empire is vast andplex. You’ll be at its helm soon enough, and a capable partner is essential. The entertainment industry is no ce for someone as naive as Rosanna. The sooner she leaves it behind, the better.”


    Charles straightened slightly, setting his gaze sharply on Vince. “As for the wedding date, we’ll arrange it as soon as she graduates.”


    He fixed Vince with a questioning look. “You don’t object, do you, Vince?”


    Vince’s expression darkened further.


    There was no room left for him to speak up.


    The decisions had already been sealed between his father and grandfather.


    After a pause that stretched longer than it should have, he finally said, “I understand.”


    A flicker of approval crossed Charles’ face as he gave a firm nod. “Now that’s the attitude I expect!”


    Rising to his feet, Gavin gave Vince’s shoulder a firm pat before leaning in close. His voice dropped to a hard whisper as he said, “From here on out, you are to cut all ties with Maia. No exceptions.”


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    Vince’s hands clenched at his sides, his knuckles so tight they lost their color.


    A few seconds dragged by before he dropped his gaze and answered in a steady voice, “Alright.”


    The next morning, even before Maia opened her eyes, her phone buzzed relentlessly on the nightstand.


    She pulled herself out of bed and grabbed it, still half-asleep.


    Yet again, dozens of unread messages waited for her.


    One after another, news alerts kept pouring in without pause.


    The first headline that jumped out at her read: “Maia Watson and Vince Ward Spotted in Secret Meeting, Stirring Rumors of a Rekindled Romance.”


    Maia’s face tensed momentarily.


    As she browsed through her notifications, the headlines grew increasingly sensational.


    One read: “Intensifying sh Between Alleged Real and Fake Daughter: Maia Watson Implicated in Vince Ward’s Seduction!”


    Another: “Rosanna Morgan Struggles with a New Scandal: Her Fiancé Rumored to Be Ensnared by Maia Watson, ndestine Encounters Revealed!”


    “Singing Contest Turns Personal: Two Women Compete for One Man, Igniting a Feud!”


    A wry smile crossed Maia’s lips.


    She gently tapped to open the most circted tabloid story.


    The images released were provocatively clear.


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