âItâs just a piece of land, so Iâm letting it go. After all, she is the biological mother of my child. I donât want her to lose her motherâs love at such a young age.â
Dexterâs expression was nonchalant, as if he was merely discussing what to have for breakfast.
The sky outside was gradually brightening.
âOh? You traveled a great distance to chase her down here and chose to give up such valuable resources, all because she is the mother of your child?â
âWhy else would I do that? Did you really think Iâm obligated to give so much for an ex-wife?â
When he pretended to be cold and indifferent, he was truly convincing, with no signs of his facade cracking.
Wayneâs voice lowered. âThat cash needs to be returned.â
âI canât do that. Itâs not something I did, so where would I find so much money to compensate you?â Dexter admitted honestly.
âSo, you are determined to deny everything regardless of the consequences. Arnoldâs methods can be quite harsh, so she could very well die.â
Through his mask, Wayne studied the man before him, trying to discern his true emotions. Yet, Dexter said, âThat piece of land is worth hundreds of millions. For the sake of our child, Iâm willing to give it to you. But the funds on that ship are worth more than hundreds of millions. I canât afford to give any more than that.â
âYou weighed the pros and cons quite well. It seems you also agree she isnât worth that price, Mr. Russell.â
He was testing the waters.
âOf course sheâs not worth it. There are plenty of women in this world. It wouldnât be a bad idea to find another mother for the child.â
âBut Iâve heard that in recent years, you havenât sought anyone else. Itâs almost as if youâve withdrawn from the world. The last time I saw you, you were tending to those flowers and plants. Itâs because youâre still in love and canât let go, isnât it?â
Dexter gave a slight nod. âI simply grew tired of women, thatâs all.â
âWhen Russell Groupâs board tried to impeach you, it was Josie who stepped forward to save you.â
Dexter slowly broke into a smile. âYou sure know everything about me.â
âIsnât it the same with you?â
Only then did Dexter lean forward, dip his fingertip in coffee, and draw a circle on the table. âThe last time we met, it was at a church in Wavery. Mr. Dalton, you had come specifically to find me, attempting to secure the final rights to that piece of land. I advised you that knowing when to stop is the safest approach.â
âKnowing when to quit is not always the best strategy in business.â
Dexter nodded. âYou have a deep understanding of capital coordination.â
Wayne turned his head, taking another glance at the sky.
âAnd this time, you directly asked me for that piece of land. Itâs likely to be targeted. Arenât you afraid of drawing attention?â Before Wayne could respond, Dexter drew a question mark in the circle and continued, âOf course, Iâm guessing youâre not scared. After all, you have the backing of the Lucas from Rivodia.â
Wayne chuckled lightly. âYour information is quite comprehensive.â
âWhat about Wavery?â Dexter suddenly became serious. The two exchanged intense, sidelong glances.
Wayneâs smile faded. âDidnât you find out about that, Mr. Russell?â
âJosie can die, but the Olsen family wouldnât let you off the hook if she did. From what I know, even the mayor in Wavery would have to show Mark some respect. Is it worth it?â
âWhat about the Russell family?â Wayne suddenly asked.
Dexterâs expression remained unchanged, âWith her death, the storm will rise again. You wonât be able to enjoy your leisure as you do now. When your support falls, would there even be a need for me to step in?â
Having analyzed the pros and cons up to this point, it seemed Wayne had understood. âSo, youâve come to advise me. Such kindness is more than I can bear.â
âIâve always been curious about who the real power behind Wavery is. Now, I find myself oddly anticipating Josieâs death. Once sheâs gone, Mark will have no choice but to reveal the truth.â
Wayne believed that Mark would surely take advantage of the fight between both parties.
âIâve said it before, Arnold is impulsive, I canât control him.â