Chapter 8 You're Like Family

Bobby's words caused an uproar in the banquet hall.

Miriam and the other family members were filled with regret as they watched the old man publicly back Ashton.

"We should've gotten rid of that nobody before Grandpa got involved!" Tristan hissed under his breath.

Miriam shot her son a sharp look and responded bitterly, "What's the point of saying that now? Who could have thought that that damned Ashton had such a card to play to win Bobby over?"

The situation had spiraled out of control, and regretting what happened was pointless.

Miriam's resentment grew when she saw Ashton's composed smile.

"This guy pretended to be diligent and humble, but he's actually shrewd and manipulative! He's been hiding his talents to covet our family's fortune and Emalee's beauty!"

This realization made her face redden with anger.

While the James family members appeared anxious and Phillip looked grim, Ashton maintained a calm demeanor. He shook his head gently at Bobby and said, "Bobby, it's over between Emalee and me. Forced relationships don't work. Since our feelings have faded, there's no point in trying to force something that isn't there."

Bobby felt a pang of sadness at Ashton's words. At the same time, he couldn't help but sigh deeply when he saw the determined look on Ashton's face.

"Ashton, you've been through a lot these past two years. It's been tough on you. You're a good person, and I've grown quite fond of you. But if you've made your decision, I have to respect it. It's just a pity that someone as deserving as you won't remain part of our family."

"You shouldn't feel too sad, Bobby," Ashton politely responded. "To me, you're like family. Whenever you want to see me, I'll make sure to visit."

Bobby's face lit up in delight. "That's a promise, then. Don't you forget about me!"

As Ashton and Bobby conversed amiably, Emalee experienced a whirlwind of emotions. She had initiated the divorce believing she could be free and even rekindle a past romance, now thriving as a CEO. However, Ashton's firm stance in the divorce left her feeling strangely uneasy.

Why was the man who had been a constant in her life leaving without a trace of hesitation? Was his love for her just a lie?

Miriam had secretly been relieved that Ashton seemed sensible enough not to cling to the James family. However, seeing Emalee's conflicted expression, she realized that Ashton didn't care about their family in the slightest.

This realization made Miriam sneer in disgust. "Humph! Do you think our James family, with all its wealth, will miss you, Ashton? You're just a useless freeloader. Without our family, you're nothing!"

Ashton simply chuckled in response and chose not to argue with her.

Just as he was about to exit the banquet hall, a James family servant hurried in and announced, "Sir, a guest from the Campbell family is here to see you."

The announcement about the Campbell family's arrival sent a ripple of excitement through the banquet hall. It even made Bobby stand up from his seat in excitement.

"Well, what are you waiting for? Bring them in quickly!" he urged.

While the James family held prominence in Inewood, their status paled in comparison to the illustrious Campbell family. A visit from such a distinguished family could significantly bolster the James family's reputation.

Miriam's expression transformed into a smug smile. She imagined Ashton humbling himself before her and regretting his decision to leave the James family.

Miriam turned her gaze toward Ashton and smirked. "Ashton, do you see this? The Campbell family knows that Phillip will soon be my son-in-law, and they've come to celebrate Bobby's birthday because of it. What have you contributed to our family in the past two years? Are you regretting your decision now?

You could have stayed under Bobby's protection. No one would have dared to cross you. But now, even if you beg, it's too late! With Phillip's connections and the Campbell family's support, the James family is set to become a major force in Inewood. And you, loser, will have no choice but to look up at us!"