No Divorce? The Billionaire's Love Chase! novel Chapter 212

"Claudia," he warned, "my patience is running out."

She sighed innocently. "I just meant well, but it backfired. I'll be more careful next time."

York fought to control his anger, his breathing heavy and strained. "If anything happens to Ann or the child," he reminded her through gritted teeth, "I won't forgive you."

Claudia placed a hand over her heart in a gesture of assurance. "Don't you worry about a thing. If your grandfather gets angry, I'll take full responsibility. I won't let a single hair on your beloved's head be harmed."

They stared at each other, inches apart.

"I hope," York said, his voice a low growl, "that you're not just saying that to spite me."

"I mean every word," Claudia replied firmly.

She had no leverage; he held all the cards, so she couldn't fight him head-on. But now, his relationship with Ann was practically public. Ann was desperate to claim her position, and Claudia had to help her. The sooner she could secure Ann and her son's place in the family, the sooner she could finally be free of this marriage.

Late that night, the black luxury car pulled slowly into the Ferguson Mansion estate.

The butler respectfully opened the door. "Sir, Madam, we've arrived."

York and Claudia had barely stepped out of the car when Ann rushed over to him. "York, I'm so scared. What am I going to do?"

The butler stepped between them, creating a barrier. "Miss James, Madam is present. Please be mindful of your position."

Ann instinctively glanced at Claudia and quickly stepped back.

York looked at Ann's terrified expression and offered a word of comfort. "Don't be afraid. I'll handle everything."

Ann nodded gratefully.

When the butler stopped, Ann stopped with him.

York led Claudia to stand before the elders.

Old Mr. Ferguson gave the butler a look.

The butler prompted Ann, "Miss James, please step forward."

Ann walked forward timidly, stopping beside York, too frightened to go any further.

York's gaze rested on Claudia for a few seconds, his expression complicated. Then, he let go of her hand and moved to stand by Ann's side.

"Grandfather," he said, "if you have a problem, take it out on me."