His Unveiled Passion novel Chapter 177

Ralph patiently advised Stephen. "Samuel is a legitimate businessman. He's never been exposed to this kind of bloodshed. Even if you assign bodyguards, they can't protect him and his family every second of the day. You've seen it yourself. The Yates are the first to suffer in this war between you and James."

Stephen's dark eyes were as deep and unreadable as an abyss. His Adam's apple bobbed, and a faint redness rimmed his eyes.

"Grandpa, do you really think James will believe I broke up with Tessa?"

"That's why you can't just pretend; you have to make it real. Tessa is too pure-hearted to fake it. If you tell her it's only for show, she'll give it away in an instant. Stephen, if you're going to do this, do it the right way. Make a clean break."

A flicker of pain crossed Stephen's face. "I promised her I'd never do anything to hurt her."

"This isn't hurting her. You're protecting her."

"James went after the Yates family because he knows Tessa is my weakness. I don't believe that breaking up with her will convince him we're truly over."

Ralph shook his head. "No, he'll believe it. You're the only heir of the Jacobson family and successor to the Jacobson Corporation. With your status, no one would ever think you're the type to be devoted to just one woman. Men like you are expected to be fickle."

Stephen let out a bitter laugh. "Grandpa, give me some time. Let me think about it."

Ralph patted him on the shoulder and said solemnly, "I can wait, Stephen. The Yates family can't."

Stephen closed his eyes, his chest rising and falling as if suppressing his emotions.

Ralph sighed. "If you truly love Tessa, can't you just win her back once you've dealt with James?"

Stephen's voice was low and hoarse, a trace of confusion flickering in his eyes. Ralph had never seen him in a dazed state like this before.

"What if she doesn't want to be with me anymore?"