His Unveiled Passion

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."

let out a bitter laugh. "Grandpa, give me some time.

him on the shoulder and said solemnly, "I

chest rising and

you truly love Tessa, can't you just win

confusion flickering in his eyes. Ralph had

she doesn't want to be

Stephen's concerns, but there was nothing he could promise

one initiating the breakup. Tessa had no reason to wait for

truly give up, and

shattered Tessa's heart,

an

moment before speaking solemnly. "If you really don't want to break up with Tessa then be honest. Ask her to go along with the act. But only do it if you're certain

silent. That