Chapter 1437 Selena's Misfortune
Though Selena had been given shares in the Smith family business, this corporate giant comprised far more than a single company. Each member of the Smith family managed several subsidiaries, any one of which would qualify as a major listed enterprise on its own.
The guests in the grand hall, while displeased with Selena's sudden elevation, feared antagonizing Tatum and Nolan. The risk of having their companies reclaimed made them hesitant to voice their true feelings.
Despite their resentment after meeting Selena tonight, none dared cause a scene. However, when Richard descended the stairs, some found the courage to speak up.
"Richard, did you really surrender all your shares to her? Women are emotional creatures—what if Raymond sweet-talks her into handing over everything? The Smith family could face ruin."
"Indeed. Lawrence was expelled from the family because of Selena, yet he's done remarkably well for us all these years. I suspect Selena has returned only to destroy the Smith family."
"Your grandparents were right about some things. Perhaps it's just her unfortunate destiny. Better to send her away and reclaim the shares."
Richard smiled at the elderly relatives, though her eyes remained sharp. "No need for your concern. Selena has the competence to manage the company—she'll outperform Lawrence."
What these people likely didn't realize was that the underground fighting arena belonged to Raymond—a venue every major family coveted for its incalculable daily profits.
The group cast furtive glances upstairs before dispersing without further comment.
As Richard sat alone in the hall, his phone rang. It was Eloise, Otto's daughter.
Though Jason's family and Otto were on poor terms, few knew that Richard and Eloise shared a close, almost conspiratorial friendship. They understood each other—he pursued women, she pursued men. Their mutual appreciation for debauchery made them kindred spirits.
Richard considered Eloise foolish, yet far more capable than Tessa. Eloise was merely playing dumb. To Eloise, Richard was simply an uneducated playboy. Their compatible worldviews had led them to frequent many bars together.
Her call now likely meant she'd heard about recent events.
Richard answered, "Hello?"
Surrounded by takeout containers, Eloise held a game controller.
"Richard, I heard about the drama at the Smith mansion. Your grandparents have gone home—why not escape while you can? Bring your newly-found sister and come play video games at my place."
Eloise no longer lived with Otto, returning only for holidays. Each visit inevitably involved enduring provocations from Otto's mistresses and suffering his violent outbursts.
"Grandfather wants to see if Selena and Raymond have a future together."
With a lollipop in her mouth, Eloise narrowed her eyes. "That's unfortunate. Selena and Raymond will likely separate. That priest is no saint—I still remember the slander he spread about me."
Richard massaged his temples, lacking the energy for banter.
"I have to go. I need to stay and await the outcome."
Eloise tossed aside her controller with a sigh.
"Fine. Bring Selena around sometime. Since she's back, what about Tessa?"
"With Lawrence, I presume."
"Lawrence is remarkably tolerant. In his position, I would have torn Tessa to shreds."
Unsure how much gossip she'd heard, Richard chuckled softly. "Watch what you say."
Eloise immediately covered her mouth. "I'm just defending Selena. Though I've never met her, she must be far better than Tessa."
Richard ended the call.
Meanwhile, Tessa—the subject of their conversation—was screaming in agony in the basement.
She had already fainted twice, only to be wrenched back to consciousness by waves of excruciating pain. Her tormentors were nothing short of inhuman, pouring scalding water over her thighs and then raking the blisters away with iron combs.
She was losing her mind.
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