Chapter 281

Joyce was on the brink of speaking when Richard stood and talkéd to Daniela. "Daniela, care to join?Could be interesting gossip for you."

Joyce's face soured further at his words. "Your son already invited her. Have you all become Daniela's loyal hounds now?"

Richard, unbothered by Joyce's barb, beamed at Daniela. "Daniela? Why not sit next to me? You're family,after all."

Joyce erupted into scornful laughter. "Family? What sort of family do you think you are to her? How pretentious! Daniela's the richest soul under the sun,and here you are, offering nothing but a face of desperation. Maybe take a long look in the mirror first!" Alexander's face darkened at the exchange.

Seeing Daniela putting on her headphones, Richard had no choice but to return to his seat.

The only reason he had shown up was the lure of the chance to speak with Daniela.

He needed to recover some of his past investments,and Daniela was his only hope.

With his patience for Joyce's antics drained, Richard cut straight to the chase. "Let's skip dinner. I've lost my appetite. We might as well settle this now. As far as I'm concerned, Joyce and Alexander are on a fast track to divorce."

Joyce was perched across from them. She locked eyes with Alexander. "What's your take?"

Alexander's reply was crisp and clear. "We're getting a divorce."

A shadow of bitterness flitted across Joyce's face."Fine. I want half of your fortune. If that's agreeable,we can divorce tomorrow." Alexander's expression turned steely. "Do you even grasp what you're demanding?"

Joyce's gaze didn't waver. "If you deny me what l want, I won't grant youa divorce. I'll make sure you regret it."

Richard couldn't contain his fury any longer. "You're the one at fault here! How dare you have the audacity to make demands from us?"

"I have my faults, but what about Alexander? He entered this marriage while his heart belonged to another. He's well aware of it."

Richard clenched his jaw. "You've kept a boy toy, and it's the talk of the town! How can you stand there and say that?"

"Why shouldn't I? If my husband fails to meet my needs, I'll find someone who does." Joyce's voice was icy, her face unflinching.

Richard's anger was palpable, but Alexander intervened. "This marriage is over, regardless. I can't split the assets in half, but to part amicably, I'll offer you six million for the six months we've endured together. Take it or leave it. If you refuse, I'm filing for divorce."

Joyce sneered. "Six million? Are you trying to discard me like I'm worthless?"

Alexander retorted, "As far as I can tell, you're in dire need of cash. Milo isn't a reliable fallback. Without that six million, he'll leave you. I can afford to draw this out in court. Can you?"

Alexander had done his homework on Joyce's affair with Milo.

Joyce loathed those who exploited vulnerabilities for personal gain.

Alexander was employing the same tactic Daniela had once used to manipulate Katrina.

Katrina's voice was harsh. "Fifty million. NNot a penny less! Otherwise, Joyce will remain Alexander's wife indefinitely. And don't bother threatening us with court. Sure, Joyce is at fault, but Alexander's absence hasn't exactly been conducive to a healthy marriage."

Richard's hand trembled on the table. "Joyce! Just by having you as my daughter-in-law, our family has lost millions in deals. How dare you demand fifty million!Would it kill you to let go?"

At this, all pretenses fell away.

Joyce laughed mockingly. "Why should I care about dignity now? I need the money to support Milo! I've come too far to turn back now. Give me what I want,and what happens next is none of your concern. But if you refuse, Alexander, you'll live with the shame of my indiscretions. Up till now, I've kept silent. If talks break down, who knows what I'll say?"

Richard slammed his fist on the table. "What are you implying?"

"What do you think? Alexander has neglected me for so long. If I claim he's impotent, who would doubt it?Coupled with my affair, it would all add up." Joyce was ready to sacrifice her pride for financial gain.

Richard was seething, barely able to contain his rage.

Katrina turned to interject, but Joyce cut her off coldly. "Mom, if you can't support me, at least dlon't hinder me!"

Alexander faced Joyce, his gaze acknowledging her resolve. "Alright, you're determined. I must admit,that's commendable.