No Divorce? The Billionaire's Love Chase! novel Chapter 214

He was silent for a long moment before pushing the butler's hand away. He shielded Ann, his voice resolute. "Grandfather, Ann is the mother of my child. Ethan is my son. I believe she had her reasons."

Ann had her entire life ruined because of him, and she had a child waiting for her at home. He couldn't let anything happen to her.

Claudia stood quietly, completely unsurprised by York's reaction.

Old Mr. Ferguson glanced at the butler, who presented a check to Ann. "Miss James," he said, "take this check and either leave, or marry someone else!"

Ann felt like she'd been struck by lightning. She dropped to her knees in front of everyone. "Sir, I know I'm not worthy of York," she sobbed. "But we have a child together! Ethan is your great-grandson! For his sake, I'm begging you, please let us live!"

A vicious glint flashed in the patriarch's eyes. "Whether you agree or not is not up to you!"

As he finished speaking, the butler waved his hand, and several bodyguards swarmed forward. They knew how skilled York was, so they attacked from behind, managing to restrain him.

York watched in horror as the bodyguards dragged Ann away. In a panic, he shot a warning look at Claudia. "Don't forget what you promised me in the car!"

Their eyes met for a silent moment.

Claudia stepped forward, blocking the bodyguards and shielding Ann. Then she walked to the patriarch. "Grandfather, please, give them your blessing."

Her words enraged the old man. "You useless thing!" he roared, raising his cane and swinging it at her.

Claudia stood her ground, gently closing her eyes. She had to secure Ann's position, no matter what. Tonight was the perfect opportunity.

"Claudia!"

York pushed Claudia aside and walked toward his grandfather, his voice tight with suppressed fury. "Grandfather, six years ago, you sent Ann abroad just to break us up. This time, I won't give you the chance to take her away from me again!"

After saying this, a thought seemed to strike him, and he turned his head to look at Claudia. She stood quietly, her head bowed, her expression unreadable.

Old Mr. Ferguson leaned on his cane. "She dares to ruin your marriage, and I will have her life!"

York's voice was firm. "Ann James and her son are my life. If you want to touch them, Grandfather, you'll have to kill me first!"

His words plunged the room into a heavy silence.

A strange ache tightened in York's chest, drawing his gaze to Claudia. She gave him a faint, knowing smile. "So you've found it, York. A love worth protecting unto death. Congratulations."