Chapter 401 The Prospect of Divorce
Dalton had always harbored a keen interest in wealth, his avarice seemingly more potent than that of his fellow businessmen.
From the confines of his pocket, Brandon produced a petite booklet, laying it out on the table between them.
Dalton, curiosity piqued, inquired, "What is this?"
Brandon gestured towards the booklet, explaining, "It's a planner. The destinations within are intended for you and my sister to heal the fractures in your marriage." He pointed to the cover, adding, "It's a secluded retreat. Once you both step foot inside, you'll be cut off from the world, living together for a fortnight."
Dalton chuckled dismissively. "That's preposterous. If I were to stay there with her, we'd be at each other's throats within a day."
Brandon countered, "Take a closer look, Dalton. It's a sanctuary. Numerous couples have ventured there and returned with rejuvenated relationships."
Dalton had never put stock in such notions, but out of respect for Brandon, he picked up the brochure and gave it a cursory read. The retreat was indeed unique, devoid of electricity, internet, and signal. However, it boasted breathtaking scenery.
Once they entered, their world would shrink to encompass only each other. They would be forced to rely on one another to navigate their stay smoothly. Dalton couldn't help but perceive it as a venture more suited to the whims of the younger generation.
Brandon interjected, "Securing a reservation there is no easy feat. It's booked solid for the next year. I had to pull some strings to get you a spot. My sister will return today, so plan to take her there in the coming days."
Dalton retorted, "Shouldn't you have consulted your sister about her willingness to endure such a place? She's used to a life of luxury, from childhood to adulthood. How can she endure hardship?"
Brandon reassured him, "I've already spoken to her about it. She's willing to go. Her exact words were that if she can survive these fifteen days, her future life will be better. But if she can't, she will divorce you after the fortnight."
"Divorce?" Dalton's brows knitted together in surprise. "She said she wants to divorce me?"
Brandon clarified, "That will depend on the outcome of these fifteen days. The decision to divorce or not rests with you both. I'm just providing an opportunity. I can't bear to see my sister living in a home where she's unhappy and reluctant to return."
Having said his piece, Brandon rose from his seat, preparing to depart.
Before exiting, he added, "Regardless of the outcome between you and my sister after fifteen days, whether you reconcile or divorce, I will provide you with the resources you crave. The choice is yours."
Dalton cast another glance at the brochure in his hand.
The entire concept struck him as dull, and he found himself wondering who could have possibly conceived it.
Yet, he reasoned, if he could endure these fifteen days, he would gain invaluable resources, and perhaps even a divorce.
Their marriage had lost its essence, their relationship existing in name only. Given her current wealth and status, the loss of the Parker family would hardly affect her. He suspected that Hailey had long desired to leave, but was making a final effort for the sake of their families' reputations.
He decided to let her try. After all, he reasoned, she had nothing to lose.
In Dalton's mind, his own interests always took precedence.
The clock struck four in the afternoon.
Ava had yet to reach William via phone.
Her worry escalating, she dialed Vicky's number.
Vicky, however, was equally in the dark. She promised to make inquiries, but later confessed that she too was unable to reach William.
Ava was at a loss as to where else she could look for William.
Just as her anxiety was reaching its peak, Mia pulled up in her car, having personally come to collect Ava.
Before climbing into the vehicle, Ava sent a final message to William.
"William, no matter what, you're not alone. You still have me. If you have time, please call me or send a message. You can come to my house anytime, whether I'm home or not, just come in. The password is 372608."
