Jasper Thompson burst into laughter, his voice thick with disdain.
"Mabel, do you honestly believe that? If you're so confident in him, why not step aside and see what he accomplishes without your help?"
Jasper's animosity toward Mason Raymond stemmed not only from his contempt but also from a personal matter. His old friend's son had carried a torch for Mabel Sean for years, yet she had consistently rebuffed him. Now that she suddenly showed such concern for an ordinary man—a divorced one, no less—Jasper naturally felt irritated.
Mabel remained quiet momentarily before letting out a soft chuckle. "Uncle Jasper, if anyone tries to harm him, I won't show leniency to anyone."
Her tone was measured yet unmistakably threatening, clearly directed at Jasper Thompson.
Jasper wasn't foolish; he understood her meaning perfectly. He snorted derisively, "So you also believe Mason Raymond can't match Xavier Hill. Otherwise, why wouldn't you allow them a fair competition?"