Theodore's annoyance flared.

He glared at the subordinate who had dared to interrupt.

"Get out!" he snarled. "Can't you see I'm busy? Tell everyone to wait outside. No exceptions!"

The man stood frozen, fear written across his face. "But sir, the person at the door is..."

His words were cut short.

A group of men in dark suits flooded the room, surrounding the office.

Theodore didn't get angry.

He laughed, a harsh, grating sound. "Who dares to cause trouble in my office? They must have a death wish."

A tall figure moved through the crowd of black-clad men.

Then, Alexander Blackwood entered.

He was calm and lethally serious. "It's me, Alexander."

His presence alone commanded the room.

A sharp, intimidating aura radiated from him.

Theodore's heart stuttered.

A sliver of fear pierced his confidence.

This was Evelyn's husband, Alexander.

The realization hit him.

A murderous glint flashed in Theodore's eyes.

Without Alexander, he was certain Evelyn would be his.

Theodore smirked. "Alexander. You've got nerve showing up here."

A derisive snort escaped him.

Alexander's gaze was icy, locking onto Theodore who lounged arrogantly on the sofa. "You've targeted my wife, Evelyn, repeatedly. I'm her husband. My patience is gone. We settle this today."

Theodore laughed dismissively, looking Alexander up and down. "Oh, you finally decided to act? You think you can just walk in and challenge me? Who do you think you are?"

In Theodore's eyes, Alexander was just the disgraced eldest son of the Blackwood family. He held no respect for him, disabled or not.

The only person he considered a real threat was the mysterious founder of Aethelgard Industries.

Theodore sank deeper into the sofa, his voice dropping to a chilling tone. "Let me give you some advice, Alexander. Walk away from Evelyn while I'm still feeling patient. Divorce her quietly, and I won't make your life difficult. I might even throw you a bone."

Alexander's expression remained stone-cold. "Evelyn is my wife. I will never let her go."

Theodore scoffed. "That's not your decision. I had my eye on her long before you came along. You're the one in the way."

Alexander's eyes narrowed, his tone turning to ice. "Is that so?"

He paused briefly.

"Then don't blame me for what happens next."

Amused, Theodore leaned forward. "This is interesting. I'm curious to see what you think you can do. Are you planning to attack me? You surely don't think..."

Before he could finish his taunt, Alexander moved.

He stepped forward and delivered a swift, brutal kick to one of Theodore's men guarding the door.

The man cried out as he crashed to the floor.

Theodore was visibly shocked.

Had he underestimated Alexander?

It appeared he was far more capable than Theodore had assumed.