Chapter 462

With Max’s ordeal behind them and having dealt with Ryan’s mess, it seemed only natural that Brielle would be the next thorn to remove from the Dorsey family’s side. This woman had caused nothing but pain for them.

A sly grin flickered across William’s eyes, thinking about how Michael was shielding Max. He just had to wait until Max woke up and found out what happened to Brielle. It would surely lead to a confrontation with Michael, and the bond between father and son would suffer.

At that point, Michael would come to realize that his most prized son had long since fallen for Brielle.

Michael’s gaze was sharp as he turned to one of the attendants. “How is Spencer holding up?”

“The doctors are still working on him. He took a nasty hit to the head, but his life isn’t in danger.”

Michael let out a sigh of relief and waved dismissively. “Mobilize all of the Dorsey family’s resources.

Ensure that Brielle spends the rest of her life behind bars, with no visitors allowed. Strip her of her position at Dorsey International. Once Spencer is up, he can take over. I don’t want that woman anywhere near him again.”

William couldn’t resist fanning the flames a bit more. “Dad, it seems Spencer hasn’t quite given up on Brielle. If he makes another misstep after this, he might not be so lucky. You saw how ruthless she was this time.”

Such a woman had no place in the Dorsey family.

Michael’s brows furrowed in disgust. “Make sure the police keep a tight lid on her. There should be no chances for appeal. That will be all for now. Let’s disperse. We can all use some rest.”

His tone left no room for argument; his disdain for Brielle was palpable.

It was past three in the morning. At his age, Michael could hardly afford to lose sleep. Resolving these three issues had taken its toll, and he planned to visit Max again the next day.

But before he had the chance to leave, a commotion in the corridor caught everyone’s attention. It was Alivia, pale as a ghost, and lips quivering with fear.

Michael, where is Max? How is he doing?”

She must have received the news late at night, hastily throwing on a coat that hung loosely from her shoulders. Her slippers were missing, and her bare feet had rushed through the winter chill, a testament to her desperation.

Michael’s heart softened at the sight. “He’s still unconscious, but I expect he’ll be awake by tomorrow.

Alivia, why on earth did you come out without shoes?”

A wave of relief washed over Alivia as she realized she was indeed shoeless and quickly sat down to recollect herself. “I’m sorry, I was just so worried… I’m glad he’s okay.” Her eyes were red–rimmed, and her feet were frozen stiff.

Victoria, who had a soft spot for Alivia, sprang into action. “I’ve got a spare pair of shoes in my car. I’ll get them.”

Michael nodded in approval, admiring Alivia’s dedication. “You came all this way in the middle of the night. That’s very considerate of you.”

Alivia bit her lip, her cheeks flushing with a mix of worry and relief. “Michael, it’s the least 1 could do.

Max means everything to me.”

Michael was pleased, Max needed a woman like her by his side. “Alivia, once you’ve settled things with your research institute and things aren’t so hectic, we should sit down and finalize your engagement.”

Her eyes brightened at the suggestion, but she was cautious, worried that pushing too hard might drive Max away. “Let’s wait until Max wakes up. His opinion is what matters most.” Her words were calculated, designed to endear her to the Dorsey family.

Michael smiled for the first time that evening and massaged his temple with a weary hand. “I’m getting too old for this. Now that I know Max is safe, I can rest easy. You should head back, too.”

“I’ll stay here until he wakes up.”

Michael sighed, resigned. “You’re a good girl, Alivia.”

As Michael was escorted away and Victoria returned with shoes for Alivia, the corridor finally emptied.

Only then did a sly grin creep onto Alivia’s face. She had purposely left her shoes behind as a ruse to show the Dorseys Just how much she cared for Max.

While genuinely concerned for Max’s well–being, the news of Brielle’s downfall had put her at ease.

That phone call she made to Spencer had been the right move. Under such stress, he had sought out Brielle.

Already shattered by the loss of a child, the public scandal, and now being harassed by her despicable ex–fiancé, Brielle was bound to crack.

Alivia had always said that her torment of Brielle was just beginning. She hardly needed to lift a finger;

her rival would self–destruct without hesitation.