His Unveiled Passion novel Chapter 181

Caleb was the next to speak up. "This is a small gesture from our family. Please accept it."

As he spoke, he handed over a bank card to Samuel.

With Ralph having already set the tone, even if Samuel still harbored some resentment toward the Jacobson family, he had no choice but to remain composed.

Samuel smiled and accepted the card. "I'll accept it, then. Thank you."

"There's no need for such formalities," Caleb replied.

After seeing Samuel accept the money, Ralph continued, "Samuel, there's another reason why I came back to Rivertown."

Samuel had a rough idea of what was coming. He composed himself and listened in silence.

"You must already know that this incident wasn't just an accident. Stephen has likely mentioned something to you about Caleb's—"

Ralph paused. He was just about to say "illegitimate son", but the words felt too harsh.

After a brief hesitation, he rephrased, "Caleb's other son, James."

Samuel's expression darkened slightly as he nodded.

Ralph continued, "James wants to punish the Jacobson family. You got caught up in this mess because of Tessa's engagement to Stephen. After much deliberation, we've decided to call off the engagement."

Marianne, who was standing to the side, looked over in surprise.

Samuel had already confided in her the night before about wanting to break off the engagement, but he hadn't dared to bring it up himself, wary of Ralph's influence.

They hadn't expected Ralph to bring the entire Jacobson family to call off the engagement.

It wasn't appropriate for the Yates family to bring up the matter first, so it was naturally better for the Jacobson family to take the lead.

When Ralph and the Jacobson family pushed the door open and walked in, Samuel had already mentally prepared himself. He wasn't particularly surprised to hear Ralph's words.

"Samuel, you should rest now. We won't disturb you any longer," Ralph said.

"Okay. Take care." Samuel glanced at Marianne and continued, "Please see them out."

Marianne nodded. "Of course."

…

Tessa hadn't slept well the previous night, so she took a nap in the afternoon. She hadn't been asleep for long when her phone started ringing incessantly.

Exhausted, Tessa opened her eyes and picked up the phone. "Hello?"

Naomi's voice came through, loud and frantic. "Oh my God! Tessa, have you seen TikTok? Stephen is caught up in a scandal with some actress! It's already trending!"

Tessa's heart sank.