Reclaiming Her Heart
Chapter 538 Even If You Desired to Divorce Raymond

In the throes of his anger, Mr. Montague Sr found himself suddenly rubbing his forehead with a wearied hand.

"Let him stew in his regret, I shan't lift a finger to help him," he declared, his voice echoing in the silence that followed his outburst.

"But why make him kneel?" the butler questioned, his voice a mere whisper against the storm of his rage.

"Why? Because he deserves to kneel, to feel the weight of his actions. Come dawn, I want him gone," Mr. Montague Sr. retorted, his voice a harsh bark in the quiet room. No sooner had the words left his mouth than the shrill ring of his phone pierced the silence. The caller ID flashed Selena's name, bringing a smile to the old man's face. "Selena," he greeted, his voice softening at the sound of her name.

"Mr. Montague Sr, I need to inquire about the land on the city's eastern side. The Fair family is set to bid on it tomorrow, but I've discovered that the bidding has been postponed for a year. Several major companies that were initially interested have all backed out. Is there an issue with the land?" Selena's voice echoed through the phone, her concern palpable.

Mr. Montague Sr's gaze darted around the room, his mind whirling with thoughts. He considered inviting her over to discuss the matter in person, but the image of the unworthy man kneeling outside quickly squashed that idea. "I've discussed your concerns with your dad," he replied, his voice steady.

For a moment, Selena was taken aback, assuming he was referring to James. But she quickly realized that he was speaking of Raymond's father. Since she had married Raymond, it was only natural for her to call him dad.

"That land was indeed slated for commercial and subway development a year ago. It was a prime candidate for residential investment, with even plans for a reputable elementary school. The companies that withdrew from the bidding didn't do so because they knew the truth, but rather because they couldn't afford it. The business world is fickle, and it changes every day. If the Fair family wishes to acquire that land for factory purposes, they needn't concern themselves with school or commercial planning. However, if it's to be used for residential purposes, it would certainly be a loss," Mr. Montague Sr elaborated.

"Mr. Montague Sr, have there been any alterations to the commercial plans for that land?" Selena inquired, her voice laced with curiosity.

"Indeed, not only the commercial plans but also the school. The promised elementary school is no longer in the picture. As it stands, there isn't a school in close proximity. If the land is used for residential properties, they won't fetch a high price given the location. It's still uncertain whether the planned subway will also undergo changes. This news will likely become public next month, hence the sudden advancement of the bidding schedule. If we were to wait until next month, everyone would be privy to this information and no one would bid on the land," Mr. Montague Sr explained.

Grasping the situation, Selena expressed her gratitude. "Mr. Montague Sr, I understand."

With a contented smile gracing his aged features, Mr. Montague Sr. addressed his granddaughter-in-law, "It's a rarity for you to seek my counsel, Selena. I understand your reluctance, your concern for my health. But rest assured, I am well aware of my own physical condition. If you have any concerns, any thoughts at all, do not hesitate to share them with me. Even if it involves divorcing Raymond."

He paused for a moment, a few coughs escaping his lips before he continued, his voice laced with a sigh. "That boy is beyond redemption. His infidelities are not unknown to me, he is unworthy of you. I have come to accept this. If you've been silent for my sake, then I am the one holding you back. Remember, Selena, you've always been dear to me."

Selena remained quiet, her gaze lowered, her eyelashes casting long shadows on her cheeks. After a considerable pause, she finally found her voice. "Mr. Montague Sr, I believe you must have noticed that he doesn't really like me." How could Mr. Montague Sr. not have noticed? Love is not something one could feign, especially when it came to the look in one's eyes. Whenever Selena's name was brought up, Raymond's eyes remained impassive. But the mention of the woman who had caused Oliver such embarrassment sparked a gleam in his eyes. Having watched Raymond grow, Mr. Montague Sr. was well aware of his innermost thoughts.

There was a time when Mr. Montague Sr. had wished for Selena to marry Raymond, despite knowing that the young man was oblivious to the concept of affection. He couldn't fathom why Raymond was drawn to Olivia.

Everyone claimed that Raymond was smitten with Olivia, but Mr. Montague Sr. could see that there was no tenderness in his gaze. To him, tenderness was the true testament of affection. Hence, he had always believed that Selena stood a chance. He was convinced that with time, Raymond would eventually develop feelings for her.

But now, the situation had changed. Raymond's heart belonged to another. To force Selena to remain in the Montague family would be an exercise in futility. A woman of her caliber, her potential, should not be confined to such a stifling environment.

"Selena, tell me what you really think," Mr. Montague Sr. urged.

"I can endure this marriage for another three months at most, just to provide you with some peace of mind, Mr. Montague Sr. If, after this period, I still replace no affection for Raymond, we can part ways amicably."

Her proposal was a face-saving solution for both parties.

Mr. Montague Sr. took ten seconds to ponder over her words before responding, "Very well, I stand by you, my dear."

A sigh of relief escaped Selena's lips. With Mr. Montague Sr.'s approval, she had cleared a significant hurdle.

"Selena, I have a question. Did you and Raymond truly share a romantic past, or was it a fabrication?" Mr. Montague Sr. inquired.

Not wanting to deceive him any further, Selena responded candidly, "I entered into the relationship willingly."

This revelation incensed Mr. Montague Sr. In his eyes, Raymond had taken advantage of Selena and now, not only did he not love her, he was pursuing other women.

The audacity of the man!

"Very well, that scoundrel. I made a grave mistake placing my trust in him. The inherent vices of men are unchangeable. In three months, when he is filled with regret, I will stand by you!"