Chapter 225

Vincent Ashcroft Sr. gripped his son's shoulder with a heavy hand, his gaze profound. "Stop asking why. Evelyn chose Adrian for her own reasons."

He adjusted his cuffs deliberately, voice measured. "Evelyn began specialized training at three. By eighteen, she'd earned multiple doctorates. Her achievements are beyond your comprehension."

"Her relationship with Adrian is none of your concern. The affair was his choice alone."

Vincent gestured for his son to sit, lowering his voice. "You want to know why Evelyn married Adrian? It traces back to Alexander Durand. The entire Tang family was wiped out overnight in Lyon. Alexander and Evelyn shared an unbreakable bond."

"Rumors say the Sterling Manor heiress vanished for four years hunting the perpetrators."

"If even the Tangs fell, what chance did our family have? This outcome is the best we could hope for. Stay away from Vincent Langley."

Vincent Ashcroft's eyes flashed with confusion. "But Adrian—"

"Focus on yourself!" his father snapped. "You can't even protect yourself now."

Did his foolish son still not understand? Only strength could prevent them from being pawns.

"Father... are you saying whoever destroyed the Tangs also targeted us?" Realization sharpened Vincent's gaze.

The Langley family. Their methods were too sophisticated to detect.

"Exactly." Vincent nodded. "The technology I possess is what Vincent Langley covets most. That man operates in both shadows and light, specializing in proxy warfare."

"When you enter Falcon Training Camp, I'll transfer the technology to you. Remember—aligning with Evelyn is your only path to survival."

Vincent studied his father's graying temples, jaw tight. "What must I do? What trial did the heiress mention?"

Vincent Sr. narrowed his eyes. "Rebirth through near-death. With our family's fall, every fair-weather friend will kick us. This trial will force you to see reality."

"Decide what you truly want. Your future depends solely on your own efforts."

Vincent clenched his fists. He'd never imagined the Ashcrofts could fall so far.

"I understand." He gave a resolute nod. "I'll pass the test."

"One more thing," his father warned. "Don't presume affection from Evelyn. To her, those who don't matter are invisible."

Vincent remained silent.

......

Inside the black sedan, Zachary Deross couldn't resist asking, "Boss, why give the Ashcrofts a chance? That Vincent is hopeless."

Evelyn gazed out the window, tone even. "I owe Vincent Sr. a debt. Whether his son proves worthy is up to him."

Zachary scoffed. "He won't last a month under your trial."

Evelyn said nothing, fingertips tapping the glass.

"Monitor him closely this month," she instructed quietly. "Report everything."