Betrayed by the Father Reborn in His Rival's Arms novel Chapter 476

"I do." Julian's voice remained steady, but he knew better than anyone what dark weight lay beneath that composure.

"I also know it's despicable. But Grandpa, have you thought about what happens if Penny has a child out of wedlock? Where does that leave the York family's pride?

"What happens to the rest of her life? What happens to the kid when they grow up?"

He paused, his voice dropping slightly.

"You said it yourself earlier—you wanted to find her a suitable match in the military or political circles. All the men who used to suck up to you are flat-out rejecting the idea now.

"You know exactly how badly she's being crucified online. In families of our caliber, no one wants to marry a woman who's been entirely exposed to the public. That's the reality."

Terrence's hand twitched.

Julian pressed his advantage. "So, if this child absolutely must be born legitimately, then Quentin has to take responsibility. It's Penny's only way out now."

"Bullshit!" Terrence cursed, forcing himself up from the armchair, swaying slightly. "He has a wife! That Monroe girl is gentle and reasonable."

"Then we force them to divorce and make him marry Penny!" Julian delivered the suggestion without a shred of hesitation, utterly cold-blooded.

Terrence was enraged. He couldn't fathom how his grandson could suggest something so vile so easily.

"What did the Monroe girl ever do to deserve this? She's happily newly married. Why should our family rip her life apart? Did a dog eat your conscience?"

Julian lowered his eyes under the reprimand, but his lips remained pressed in a stubborn line.

At that moment, Cora, who had been completely silent, spoke up.

Her eyes were still red, and her voice was raspy from crying, yet it rang clearer than ever. "Dad, Julian isn't wrong."

Terrence snapped his gaze toward her.

She flinched slightly under his glare, but after glancing at her husband for support, she gathered the courage to continue.

"Penny is our only daughter. I know she did something incredibly stupid, but she's my flesh and blood.

"Watching her hold that broken porcelain to her wrist today... it nearly scared me to death. I can't lose her."

Her voice began to tremble, and her eyes welled with tears again, but she didn't stop. "I know this is unfair to Madeline.

"But think about it—she's infertile, that's a fact.

"Quentin has massive wealth and a corporate empire. He's going to need an heir. If Penny gives birth to his child, it secures his bloodline.

"Madeline can't have kids, but Penny can. That is her only advantage."