Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 718

The words sounded clear enough on the surface.

In practice, they told Diana very little. Only what already belonged to him. The portion of the Kingston assets that would eventually pass to him by right was his. But if he chose to fight for more, the entire Kingston family could become his.

With the Jillsons backing him, his chances were far from slim.

Leon had inherited his position in the first place only because of the engagement, and because Hugo had still been at university at the time. Their father's health had already been failing. The family had needed an heir, and circumstance had placed Leon in the role. It had been timing, not merit.

Hugo caught the flicker of uncertainty in Diana's eyes and made no attempt to hide what he wanted.

"Is that all right?" he asked plainly.

"Of course it is." Diana smiled faintly. "It's your right as a Kingston."

She had no place interfering. And despite Hugo's stubborn streak, his abilities were no less impressive than his brother's.

The first half of her answer lit something in his eyes. For a moment, he looked like a dog that had just been praised. The second half brought the tail straight back down.

He considered it briefly, then something settled in his expression. "Right. I'll do what you say."

Naturally, he meant only the first half.

The elevator doors opened. Diana stepped out without another thought, and he followed beside her.

"Miss."

Diana had messaged Nina before coming downstairs.

Nina was already waiting beneath the parking canopy and moved to open the car door.

The moment she saw Hugo, visible surprise crossed her face. "Hugo? When did you get to Jouleston?"

Joseph Kingston looked up when Diana entered, irritation flashing briefly across his face. "Hugo told me that secretary went after you again. Don't worry. After today, I'll make sure she never appears in front of you again. And Leon, if he dares show her any more sympathy, his grandfather and I will—"

Albus cut him off with a small wave, his expression unreadable. "Joseph. That's enough. You know my granddaughter. Once she makes up her mind, no one can change it. Marriage is marriage. Whether it lasts or falls apart comes down to fate."

Joseph rubbed his palms against his knees. He understood he had already reached the limit of Albus' patience.

"Of course. My family fully respects Diana's decision. Whatever makes her happy..."

Albus' voice lowered, carrying authority without needing volume. "Happy? The son you raised humiliated Diana again and again. I doubt anyone besides him has found much happiness in any of this.

"Joseph, I'll speak plainly, because I've earned that right. The divorce will proceed. But your family owes us more than empty words."

Joseph understood immediately and completely what Albus was implying. The Kingstons needed a new heir.