Chapter 110

In Randolph’s hospital room, the Blackwood staff carefully arranged expensive gifts, nutritional supplements, and fruit before quietly leaving. The space around Randolph’s bed was crowded with visitors. Every member of the Blackwood family was present, except for the elderly Lady Blackwood, who was confined to bed with a cold.

Lord Blackwood Sr. spoke first: “Randolph, upon hearing of your injury, I immediately requested leave from Westminster to come to London personally. I sincerely hope for your swift recovery.” He held considerable influence in political circles; even London’s highest officials treated him with profound respect. Despite his authority and seniority, he addressed Randolph with remarkable courtesy, showing no condescension. Randolph was visibly moved.

He pushed himself up against the headboard, his expression slightly anxious. “You’re too kind, sir. My injuries are minor; you needn’t have troubled yourselves.”

Andrew Blackwood stepped forward, presenting a bank card. “Randolph, please accept this small token of our concern.”

With Lord Blackwood Sr. having set a conciliatory tone, Randolph could hardly express any grievances. He accepted the card with a smile. “I appreciate this. Thank you.”

“Not at all,” Andrew replied courteously.

Lord Blackwood Sr. continued, “Randolph, another matter brought me to London. Your injury was no accident, as I’m sure you’re aware. Has Asher mentioned Andrew’s… other son, Tom Malfoy?”

Randolph’s expression darkened slightly as he nodded.

“Malfoy’s target is the Blackwood family. You’ve been caught in the crossfire because of Thalia’s engagement to Asher. After careful consideration, we believe it best to dissolve the engagement.”

Victoria, Randolph’s second wife, looked surprised. Randolph had discussed ending the engagement with her the previous evening but had been reluctant to initiate the conversation, given Lord Blackwood Sr.’s influence. It was fortunate the patriarch had raised the matter. He had been mentally prepared for this conversation since the family’s arrival and wasn’t surprised.

He nodded. “Very well. Since you’ve raised the matter so directly, I’ll be equally forthright. I had been considering this myself. Our family has paid a tremendously high price for this engagement.”

The patriarch’s expression reflected genuine regret. “I understand completely.”

Andrew added, “Randolph, the Blackwood family deeply regrets the harm to your family. We suggest the public announcement come from the Winters family—we’ll prepare the press statement and assume all responsibility.”

Andrew’s wife handed Randolph a document. “We’ve drafted this statement regarding the broken engagement. Please review it and suggest any additions.”

“Of course.” Randolph read it, then closed the file. “This seems comprehensive. It will suffice.”

Lady Blackwood nodded. “Excellent. Issue it as soon as possible. Each day’s delay places your family at continued risk.”

Randolph agreed, then turned to Asher. “Asher, have you discussed this with Thalia?”

“Yes,” Asher replied, his Adam’s apple bobbing. “Sir, to ensure Thalia harbors no false hopes, I told her I’d changed my mind. I would appreciate your discretion in maintaining this narrative rather than revealing the true circumstances.”

Randolph solemnly agreed.

Lord Blackwood Sr. said, “Well, Randolph, we’ll leave you to rest now.”

“Thank you for coming. Victoria, would you see our guests out?”

Victoria nodded. “Of course.”