Chapter 436

Matriarch Valdemar stared at the priceless jewelry and property deeds, her heart aching as if slashed by a knife.

These assets should have belonged to the Valdemar family. Now they were being handed over to an outsider.

Her fingers tightened around her handkerchief, knuckles turning white.

"Patriarch, shouldn't we reconsider this?" She suppressed her fury, her voice trembling.

Patriarch Valdemar didn't even lift his eyelids.

"Reconsider what? My decision is final."

The Matriarch's chest heaved violently. She could no longer contain herself.

"I refuse!" She slammed the table and stood abruptly. "Sophia Laurent will never set foot in this house as long as I live!"

The banquet hall fell deathly silent.

Guests held their breaths, eyes darting between the Valdemar family members.

Patriarch Valdemar's expression darkened.

"Security."

Two black-suited bodyguards stepped forward immediately.

"Escort the Matriarch to her quarters."

Her eyes widened in disbelief.

Natalie Lockwood hurried to assist but was blocked by the guards.

Vincent Valdemar opened his mouth to speak but was promptly ushered out.

Sebastian Valdemar wisely pulled his younger brother away.

Once the commotion settled, Patriarch Valdemar massaged his temples wearily.

"My apologies for the spectacle."

Guests quickly smoothed things over.

"The Matriarch is elderly. It's understandable she'd be upset."

"Time will ease her concerns."

The Patriarch gave no response. Turning to Sophia, his face softened into a grandfatherly smile.

"Sign the papers, my dear."

Sophia hesitated, glancing at Alexander.

The man looked exceptionally tall in his cream-colored suit. He took the documents and flipped them open for her.

"Accept Grandfather's gift."

Sophia clutched the pen uncertainly.

Alexander leaned in, his whisper brushing her ear. "Sign and become Mrs. Valdemar. Or don't..."

The pen finally touched paper.

Patriarch Valdemar nodded in satisfaction, as if the earlier scene had never occurred.