“There’s talk all over town that the Davidson family has lost its moral compass!” Jake’s face was stone-cold as he stared at Alexander. “I trusted you to take care of the family, to run things smoothly. But now, with all this gossip swirling, you’ve done nothing to fix it—in fact, you’re right in the middle of the mess yourself.
“How many people have you alienated because of Danielle? There were so many ways you could have handled things with dignity, but you chose to throw your weight around, relying on your status and power to bulldoze over everyone. You’ve been at the helm of The Davidson Group for years, acting as President Davidson, and yet you’re completely tone-deaf when it comes to dealing with people.
“Is it that you just don’t want to deal with this? Is that it?”
It wasn’t a question of ability—Jake knew that was out of the question. Alexander was more than capable. The only explanation was that he’d given up, letting the rumors and public scrutiny spiral out of control on purpose.
Alexander’s expression didn’t flicker. His voice was calm, almost detached. “Rumors die in the minds of the wise. I can keep my own conduct above reproach, but I can’t control what others choose to say.”
Jake’s eyes darkened, his chest rising and falling with anger.
Neither of his sons had ever given him a moment’s peace.
“You really think you’re my only hope?” Jake snapped, glaring at Alexander. “You got divorced—you should have cut things off cleanly and moved on. Instead, you keep chasing after her, stirring up more talk. The truth is, this family is the one at fault in that marriage, and now everyone’s got something to say about us.
“If you feel guilty and want to make things right, fine. As her father, I wouldn’t object—in fact, people might even call you a good man. But look at yourself! You haven’t learned a thing.”
He turned, jabbing a finger at Nathan. “And you! Of all the women in the world, you chose your own sister-in-law? Are you trying to drag this family into even more scandal?”
“It’s not just about your right to choose a wife. Your brother never had a choice either. When he married Danielle—was it something he wanted? Did you ever ask him if he was willing?”
Jake’s voice softened, but only slightly. “When your mother died, I worried the memories in this house would eat you alive, so I sent you abroad. I let your brother run the company until you came back, and then handed it to you. Is this how you repay me?”
Alexander’s face was unreadable, but his eyes were black and fathomless.
Jake’s intentions had always been clear—he’d never planned on giving The Davidson Group to Alexander.
He pressed on, voice tight. “Your brother carried that burden for you, shouldered all that pressure for years. When you came back, he handed the company over without complaint. And what did you do? You walked away to work for someone else. What exactly is it that you want?”
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