?Chapter 494:


    “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 Dani had once used to manipte Katrina.


    Katrina’s voice was harsh.


    “Fifty million. Not 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-inw, 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.


    Joyceughed mockingly.


    “Why should I care about dignity now? I need the money to support Milo! I’vee 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 until now, I’ve kept silent. If talks break down, who knows what I’ll say?”


    Richard mmed his fist on the table.


    “What are you implying?”


    “What do you think? Alexander has neglected me for so long. If I im 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 don’t hinder me!”


    Alexander faced Joyce, his gaze acknowledging her resolve.


    “Alright, you’re determined. I must admit, that’smendable.”


    Alexander slid the divorce agreement across the table.


    “Sign it.”


    Fifty million in hand, Joyce signed the agreement, officially ending her marriage.


    As she stood to leave, Alexander didn’t even nce at her. His only sign of hesitation was a brief moment of stillness in the living room.


    Joyce lingered in her seat, a sudden emptiness settling over her. With a forced smile, she turned to Katrina.


    “Mom, I’m finally free! The divorce is done, and now I can go after the love I’ve always wanted!”


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