Chapter 973
973 Albert Sees Through the Deception.
Albert sighed deeply. “Alright. Let’s stop talking about Wynter. Let’s discuss our own matter.”
Albert went to great lengths to play along with his sister’s charades. He was doing things he wouldn’t
have done in normal circumstances.
“Great uncle, Grandpa always had issues with Jolene. You are the only one who can persuade him and
that stubborn nature of his.”
Albert decided against holding Jolene’s hands after some thought. Instead, he only looked at Declan and
said, “I want to marry Jolene.”
Jolene was so thrilled her heart nearly leaped out of her chest. She almost couldn’t hide the money-
hungry gleam in her eyes.
“Al, you finally… Jolene forcibly changed her tone when she noticed Declan’s warning gaze.
“It will only strain your relationship with Grandpa further if you bring up marriage now. Al, I can wait for you. Don’t let me be the cause of a conflict between you and Grandpa.”
Albert looked at Jolene deeply. “This isn’t for you. It’s for myself.” However, Albert didn’t say that sentence aloud. He was grateful to Wynter for allowing him to see through all the deception.
Declan had always cared for them since they were young. Whenever Fabian was strict with them, it had always been him who pleaded on their behalf.
Albert still remembered the time he almost drowned at the beach. It was Declan who saved him. Ever since then, Albert had always regarded Declan as a hero in his heart.
But now, seeing the silent exchange between Declan and Jolene, Albert was completely disillusioned. There was no need to make excuses for him anymore.
The truth was just as Wynter had said. The two not only knew each other but had even conspired to drive a wedge between Declan and Fabian to manipulate him. It was all an act from the start.
After some reflection, Albert realized that the deeper the love, the stronger the admonishment. Fabian’s tough love was meant to instill discipline. Too much coddling would have spoiled them.
Albert finally understood that Declan’s action was slowly and subtly rendering them useless. After all that, they still had to feel grateful to him. It was truly a cunning strategy.
Albert maintained a facade of calm and even gentleness. He was aware that Wynter’s schemes were not
over yet.
This convinced Jolene that Albert truly loved her. She believed she had him wrapped around her fingers. Why was Mr. Quinnell Senior even giving her so much pressure back then? The outcome of their schemes seemed quite obvious now.
“Al,” Jolene said tearfully, “I shouldn’t have left you for my studies . I was too insecure and arrogant back
then.”
973 Albert Sees Through the Deception
Albert lowered his gaze. He did not want to look at Jolene at all. His voice was heavy as he said, “It’s not your fault.”
Albert blamed himself for being so blind and overly attached to the past.
If his actions had caused Fabian to be unable to find peace during his illness, or if his brothers met tragic ends, or if Wynter died without anyone to claim her body, Albert would never be able to forgive himself. Albert was thankful Wynter had revealed the truth to him..
Albert kept his emotions hidden. Declan felt reassured as he listened to Albert and Jolene’s conversation.
There was a limit to how much a brother indulged his sister. If she was beyond saving, he would
eventually give up.
The recent unexpected events had made Declan doubt, but now everything seemed to be going according to his plan. Albert seeking his intervention was the first sign of success.
“Albert, you know me. Normally, I wouldn’t have interfered with your grandpa’s decisions. But I’ve watched you grow up and I understand you’re sentimental. You would be unhappy for the rest of your life if you were to be forced into a marriage against your will.”