Married At First Sight Chapter 4051
Chapter 4051
“Dad, Elora is so extraordinary. Why did you let me choose Tinsley instead?” Timothy asked softly, his voice tinged with confusion.
He had seen photos of the Ormond family’s two daughters. Elora was breathtaking—her cold, aloof demeanor only added to her allure. She stirred something in him, a desire to conquer her heart. After just two glances, he found himself captivated.
If it were up to him, Timothy would have chosen Elora without hesitation.
Mr. Labbe studied his son, a subtle smile forming on his lips. “Elora isn’t someone you can control,” he said firmly. “Of course, if you can manage to win her over and make her fall for you, things could change. But for now, your focus should be on Tinsley.”
Tinsley, too, was stunning, though her appeal was different. She lacked Elora’s icy demeanor, radiating warmth instead. Her gentle nature and frequent smiles made her seem approachable, even endearing.
“She’ll be a great asset to you—and to our family,” Mr. Labbe continued. “Marrying Tinsley will strengthen the Labbe family’s position.”
Timothy nodded thoughtfully. “I understand, Dad.”
With his good looks, wealth, charm, and generosity, Timothy had no trouble winning over women, especially those from affluent but sheltered upbringings. The match with Tinsley seemed ideal—two families of equal standing, both destined to gain from the union.
Though his father was technically the acting head of the Labbe family, their wealth and influence were undeniable. And Tinsley’s status made her a worthy match.
Moments later, one of the bodyguards approached and spoke respectfully to Mr. Labbe. “Sir, Ms. Ormond sends her apologies. She’s busy and unable to meet with you. She also expressed her gratitude for your kind gesture but mentioned that, since the two families don’t currently have business dealings, she feels it’s inappropriate to accept a New Year’s gift from the head of the family.”
The bodyguard emphasized the title “head of the family” as per Mr. Labbe’s strict instructions. It was crucial for his reputation—he refused to be addressed as the acting head of the family in public.
One day, Mr. Labbe was determined to officially claim the title. He wouldn’t allow himself to share the fate of the Farrell family’s head in Jensburg, who was tragically killed and disgraced after dedicating decades of service to his family and business.
Since Clarissa’s death, Mr. Labbe had been relentless in his search for Titus, desperate to avoid a similar end.
Receiving Ms. Ormond’s refusal didn’t anger him—it wasn’t the first time someone had turned him down.
The bodyguard continued, “President Ormond also said the time for your scheduled appointment hasn’t arrived. She asked that you not visit unannounced, as she’s extremely busy.”
Mr. Labbe let out a measured hum of acknowledgment. “I see,” he said.
“Deliver the New Year’s gifts to the security staff and ask them to pass them on to President Ormond,” he instructed. “Explain that while our families don’t yet have a working relationship, opportunities for collaboration may arise in the future. It’s customary for friends to exchange gifts during the holidays. There’s no other meaning behind it.”
“Make sure the security staff conveys this message.”
The bodyguards immediately carried out his orders, delivering the carefully prepared gifts to the security room. The security team made an internal call to relay the message.
Without waiting for a response, Mr. Labbe left the Qaxun Group headquarters with his son and their entourage.
As they departed, they crossed paths with Tatum, who happened to arrive at the same time. Unbeknownst to Mr. Labbe, Tatum was the sixth young master of the York family. However, Tatum quickly recognized the grandeur of the departing group—it could only belong to Mr. Labbe.
In Annenburg, wealthy elites often flaunted their status, but few matched the ostentation of Mr. Labbe.
Back in his car, Mr. Labbe’s composed demeanor faltered. His expression darkened as fury bubbled to the surface.
“I’ve never been humiliated like this in my life,” he hissed, his tone laced with venom. “Even when their direct bloodline was alive, they never treated me so disrespectfully. And now, these two young women have refused to meet me—again!”
The bitterness in his voice was undeniable, and his hands clenched tightly as the car sped away.
Married At First Sight Chapter 4052
Chapter 4052
Timothy’s face darkened with anger. “Dad, if they won’t accept our goodwill, then we’ll make them pay. We can attack from other angles. Once we strip the Ormond family of their business and leave them desperate, they’ll be like meat on our chopping block.”
A cruel smile crept across his face. “When that time comes, they’ll be at our mercy. If I want to marry one of them, I will. If not, I’ll make them my mistresses. The Ormond family has plenty of daughters—let’s see how they feel when I’ve had my way with all of them. That’ll teach them to look down on us.”
Mr. Labbe, known for his ruthless nature, saw his own traits mirrored in his son—Timothy’s cruelty and ambition burned just as brightly.
“The Ormond family is wealthy and deeply entrenched in countless businesses,” Timothy continued, his tone calculating. “To many, they’re a big, juicy piece of meat. We should move quietly, strike alliances with their enemies, and build a coalition. There’s strength in numbers. Once we unite against them, they’ll have no chance. Even their in-laws will likely turn against them, each wanting their own share of the spoils.”
Timothy’s voice turned darker as he leaned in. “And let’s not stop there. Send assassins to target Elora and Tinsley. If they succeed, great. If not, the attempt alone will terrify them. The Ormond family is propped up by those two. Without them, the family will collapse into chaos.
“The third and fourth daughters lack the backbone to step up, and their brothers are as good as finished. Once we destroy their leadership, we can pick apart their empire piece by piece. We’ll take down the Ormond sons too, leaving no male heirs to carry on the name. As for the older generation, they’ll crumble under the weight of it all. We won’t even need to lift a finger—they’ll die of heartbreak.”
Mr. Labbe’s lips curled into a pleased smile. He placed a firm hand on his son’s shoulder and said, “That’s my boy. You’re sharp and ruthless—just the way you need to be. I’ll leave this to you. On the surface, continue pursuing cooperation, but behind the scenes, start forming alliances with their sworn enemies. If an open approach doesn’t work, we’ll handle it in the shadows. It doesn’t matter if it takes years—as long as we succeed.”
Mr. Labbe’s mind drifted back to his own rise to power. Overthrowing the direct lineage of the Labbe family had taken nearly a decade of meticulous planning and alliances. Patience and strategy had been the key to his victory, and he saw no reason to rush this new plan.
Timothy’s confidence swelled. “Don’t worry, Dad. I’ll plan it down to the last detail.”
“As long as we can bring down the Ormond family, our future will be secure. Even if the Labbe family fades, we’ll never have to worry.”
The conversation turned to Titus, the missing link in the Ormond family’s chain of power. “That kid—he’s probably hiding in some corner of the world, dead or alive, who knows? Without the family’s token and seal, they can’t truly lead. Their expansion will only benefit others. They’re powerless to stop it.”
Mr. Labbe nodded, his expression grim. “It’s better to take advantage of the power we have now and carve out our path. Otherwise, we risk ending up like the Farrell family in Jensburg.”
Timothy’s jaw tightened at the mention of Jensburg. He was well aware of the Farrell family’s downfall. Clarissa’s biological children had been forced to step aside, powerless against the tides of change. No matter how unwilling they were, they’d had no choice but to relinquish control.
“It’s said Clarissa’s three sons are still fighting tooth and nail, even as Kathryn and that Liberty woman consolidate their power,” Mr. Labbe added.
Timothy smirked at the thought. “If they weren’t so far away, I’d offer to help Clarissa’s sons take Liberty out. The people in Wiltspoon are insufferable.”
Married At First Sight Chapter 4053
Chapter 4053
Timothy had never set foot in Wiltspoon, but his father had told him enough to form an opinion. Several major families in Wiltspoon maintained close ties with the Johnson family in Annenburg, which was a problem. There was a high chance that the child adopted by the eldest young lady of the Johnson family was Titus.
But without solid proof, Timothy couldn’t confirm it. Titus’s whereabouts were a mystery, even with the Labbe family’s vast information network. Whoever was protecting him had done an exceptional job. The families in Wiltspoon were also helping to shield Titus, making it impossible to track him down.
This alone fueled Timothy’s hatred for the powerful families in Wiltspoon. Though they were thousands of miles away, they had become a major obstacle to his and his father’s ambition of taking full control of the Labbe family.
“You’re absolutely right, Dad. Annexing the Ormond family gives us another way out,” Timothy said with conviction.
Mr. Labbe nodded, his expression serious. “Exactly. Now, it’s up to you to make it happen. If you need my help, just ask. This is your chance to sharpen your skills. Don’t disappoint me.”
Timothy straightened, confidence radiating from him. “Dad, you don’t have to worry. I’ve never let you down, and I won’t start now.”
Mr. Labbe smiled. His eldest son had always been his pride—a man who listened, obeyed, and worked tirelessly to meet every expectation. It was why Mr. Labbe had placed so much trust in him.
Timothy decided to address another matter. “Dad, as for Carrie—the woman in Wiltspoon—if she’s not of much use, why not cut her loose? She’s a bit of a loose cannon. And honestly, Dad, you let her get pregnant?”
Mr. Labbe’s reaction was calm. “Carrie still serves a purpose. She’s useful for gathering intel. We’ll keep her around for now, even if it annoys her sister.”
Timothy frowned but pressed on. “Dad, about her pregnancy—”
“I handled it,” Mr. Labbe interrupted. “She had an abortion long ago. And whenever I visit, I make sure she’s on medication to prevent another. There’s no need for jealousy. I’m just having fun with women on the side.”
The truth was, Carrie had long since lost her place in Mr. Labbe’s favor. His attention had shifted to a new woman, as it often did. Women came and went in his life as quickly as his expensive suits. The few mistresses who had borne him children were still around, but they were little more than a formality—he kept them for the sake of the kids, not because of any lingering affection.
Carrie, on the other hand, was a challenge. She was headstrong, defiant, and far from obedient. When given even a little attention, she demanded more—always more. She’d even dared to dream of replacing his wife.
“We don’t fear the wealthy families in Wiltspoon,” Mr. Labbe continued. “But we should avoid provoking the Bucham family if we can. Let Carrie play the role of my spy—it saves me trouble.”
Talking about Carrie seemed to stir something in Mr. Labbe. On a whim, he thought about flying to Wiltspoon to see her, if only to remind her of her place. She was, after all, just a pawn in his game—a tool he could use and discard as he pleased.
Still, he knew he’d need to deliver a stern warning. Carrie needed to understand one thing: as long as he held the reins, she was nothing more than his plaything.
“By the way, Dad,” Timothy said, shifting topics, “about your current girlfriend… Mom doesn’t like her. You might want to think about letting her go if things go our way.”
Timothy had met his father’s latest mistress. She bore a striking resemblance to his father’s first love. After some digging, Timothy discovered that she wasn’t the same woman but her younger sister. The revelation left him uneasy.
Timothy had his own first love, a woman who still lingered in his heart despite the countless girlfriends he’d had since. Seeing his father with a woman tied so closely to his own romantic history left him uncomfortable. Even so, he didn’t openly criticize his father.
He couldn’t.
Mr. Labbe’s charm was legendary. He was generous, suave, and attentive—qualities that made him nearly irresistible to women. Few could withstand his relentless pursuit, and those who gave in often did so willingly, taking what they wanted while knowing it wouldn’t last.
Carrie, however, hadn’t had a choice.
Married At First Sight Chapter 4054
Chapter 4054
Mr. Labbe sighed, “Your mother’s going through menopause, and her temper’s been all over the place lately. She keeps sticking her nose into my affairs. Fine, I’ll get rid of the current one. Tell your mom she can handle it however she wants, just don’t let her go as far as killing anyone.”
Timothy raised an eyebrow and smirked. “Dad, come on. Do you really think Mom’s that kind of person?”
But deep down, Timothy knew the truth. Whenever someone was eliminated, it always happened with his father’s tacit approval. His mother simply carried out his father’s will.
His sister often advised their mother against getting involved in their father’s dirty work, insisting it wasn’t her responsibility to clean up the messes from his so-called “love debts.” She believed their father should deal with them himself.
Timothy found himself torn. At times, he sided with his father. Other times, he thought his sister had a point. Perhaps it was because he was a son—he couldn’t fully empathize with his mother the way his sister could. That was probably why their mother doted on his sister more.
Even Mr. Labbe understood this dynamic. He softened his tone and said, “You’re right. I misspoke. Your mother’s not that kind of person.”
Switching topics, Mr. Labbe continued, “Timothy, I’ll be leaving soon, but I’ll leave half the team here with you. If anything comes up that you can’t handle, get in touch with me. I’m expecting good news.”
Timothy nodded without hesitation. “Understood, Dad.”
Mr. Labbe had already decided to fly to Wiltspoon that afternoon. After a quick two or three days there, he would return to Havenmill to deal with business matters.
Still, as he thought about all the hard work he put into the Labbe family empire—and how much of the benefit didn’t even belong to him personally—he couldn’t help but feel a wave of frustration.
Meanwhile, Elora was busy at work when Tatum entered her office.
Not wanting to disturb her, he quietly sat at the coffee table and began making tea for himself.
“It seems you’ve mastered the art of tea-making,” Elora said, her voice breaking the silence.
Tatum looked up and smiled. “I know a little,” he said modestly.
Elora walked over and sat down on the sofa. “You always say you ‘know a little,’ but let’s be honest—you know everything.”
Tatum chuckled and poured her a cup of tea.
“Are you hungry?” he asked. “I can head to the cafeteria and cook something for you right now.”
Tatum had already prepared all the ingredients and brought them along. He only needed to borrow the company cafeteria to whip up a fresh meal for her. Cooking it on-site ensured the flavors stayed fresh and vibrant.
Elora glanced at her watch. “Give me another half an hour. I need a quick break—just ten minutes.”
Tatum’s voice softened. “Would you like a massage? I can help you relax.”
Elora’s eyes lit up with amusement. “A massage, too? Tatum, is there anything you can’t do?”
He shrugged with a smile. “I know a little,” he repeated, the familiar phrase laced with humility.
Elora sipped the tea he’d poured her and leaned back against the sofa. “Alright, let’s see what you’ve got. Show me your massage skills.”
Tatum stood, stepping behind her with a warm smile. “It’s my honor to serve you, Miss.”
His hands moved with practiced precision, working the tension out of her shoulders and neck. Elora closed her eyes, letting out a soft sigh.
“This feels amazing,” she murmured. “Tatum, you’re not just good—you’re at the level of a professional masseur.”
He smiled but said nothing, continuing his work with quiet focus.
As the massage continued, Tatum said casually, “I ran into the acting head of the Labbe family earlier. Mr. Labbe, from Havenmill. What’s he doing here?”
Elora kept her eyes closed, her tone cool. “I have no idea, and frankly, I don’t care. I didn’t let him in.”
She stretched her arms slightly, letting out a contented sigh before continuing. “He dropped off a New Year’s gift for the company and left it with the security guard. I told the captain to return it. If he doesn’t take it back, the guards can split it among themselves. Either way, I won’t accept anything from him.”
Her voice grew colder as she added, “That man’s an old pervert. Whatever he’s up to, it’s nothing good.”
Married At First Sight Chapter 4055
Chapter 4055
Tatum said, “Mr. Labbe approached you because he’s clearly looking to collaborate with your company.”
However, he’s just the acting head of the Labbe family, not the true decision-maker. If the real head returns, all his hard work will only serve someone else’s agenda. He knows this too well. Look at what happened to the head of the Farrell family in Jensburg—it must have been a wake-up call for him. He doesn’t want to meet the same fate.
That’s why this business he’s proposing must be his personal venture, but he’s disguising it under the Labbe family’s banner. After all, the Labbe family wields immense influence in Province X.”
Financially, the Ormond family and the Labbe family might be on par, but the Labbe family’s influence in Province X far surpasses that of the Ormonds, especially given the Ormond family’s smaller size.
Elora responded, her tone laced with skepticism. “He’s highly ambitious. Right now, the collaboration is in its early stages, but eventually, he’ll find ways to cheat us and try to swallow the Ormond family’s business. On top of that, he’s notorious for his lustful behavior. He’s ruined countless lives—some women even lost their lives because of him.”
“If he tires of someone, he lets his wife handle the dirty work—punishing mistresses, forcing abortions on women who want to keep their babies. His scandals have long been the talk of Province X. People who want favors from him know the drill—send a beautiful woman his way, and he’ll grant their requests without hesitation.”
Tatum fell silent for a moment before finally saying, “Men with money and power often fall into two traps: gambling or women. How many can truly stay clean and loyal to their families?”
“The men of the York family are different, though. They’re so admired, and their family values are deeply respected. With the backing of other influential families, the York family has become a symbol of honor. It’s no wonder families with eligible daughters dream of marrying into the York family.”
Then, Tatum’s voice grew serious. “Miss, your sisters are all young and beautiful. I worry they may become targets.”
Elora’s eyes narrowed as she turned to look at him. After a long pause, she asked, “Mr. Labbe has only visited a few times. How can you be so sure of his ambition?”
Tatum replied, “I’ve known about Mr. Labbe for some time. While we’re not close, his reputation precedes him. His appetite for women is no secret—he changes mistresses as often as he changes clothes. You said it yourself; everyone in Province X knows this.”
“Last year, he made several trips to Wiltspoon and even had indirect dealings with the York family. Let’s just say those interactions weren’t exactly positive. That’s how I came to know more about him.”
Tatum stopped short of mentioning Titus.
Although Elora was his fiancée and someone he trusted, the fewer people who knew about Titus, the better. If she ever crossed paths with Titus in the future, she’d learn everything on her own. For now, it was better to leave that chapter unopened.
Titus, after all, kept to himself, living a quiet life with the family’s elders. He rarely visited Wiltspoon, let alone ventured to Annenburg in Province X, so Elora was unlikely to meet him. The less she knew, the less entangled the Ormond family would become in matters involving Titus.
The Ormond family was located just 200 kilometers away from the Labbe family. With someone as ruthless as Mr. Labbe targeting them, it wouldn’t take much for their family to falter under his schemes.
Elora trusted her instincts. Rosie once said the York family was like local royalty in Wiltspoon, with their ears to the ground and an extensive network of connections.
The Bucham family, known for their exceptional intelligence network, had a close alliance with the Yorks, making them a formidable source of information.
Married At First Sight Chapter 4056
Chapter 4056
Elora said, “The Ormond family is full of daughters, and my two younger brothers are only seven and six. They’re too young to take on the responsibilities of the family. Big families with their eyes on us see an opportunity—they either attack us openly or scheme in the shadows. I’ve been running the family business for years now, and I’ve experienced both the warmth and coldness of people, as well as the darker sides of human nature. Even our own relatives hope for our downfall so they can carve up the family’s assets.”
When Elora first took over the business, the older generation—relatives and so-called friends from her grandparents’ and parents’ circles—did everything they could to sabotage her. They plotted against her, tripped her up at every turn, and manipulated her in countless ways.
They saw her as an easy target, someone they could take advantage of. They didn’t want her to gain control of the Ormond family business, let alone establish her authority. Some even conspired with outsiders to undermine her in the corporate world.
She suffered countless losses, endured relentless schemes, and faced several “accidents” that nearly cost her life. It wasn’t until she stared death in the face multiple times that she truly understood the depths of human cruelty. From then on, she resolved to protect herself by becoming colder, tougher, and more calculated.
Taking over her family’s business felt less like running a company and more like fighting for a throne. Like emperors of old, she had to claw her way to the top—and then defend her position fiercely.
It was exhausting, both physically and emotionally. She felt disappointment and weariness, but she endured. And now, after everything, the Ormond family business was firmly in her hands.
The relatives and “friends” who once betrayed her had paid the price. Those who plotted against her were ruined—living lives worse than stray dogs. Some fled Annenburg entirely, cutting off contact in a desperate attempt to protect what little they had left.
As for the ones who tried to take her life? They were rotting in prison.
“Don’t underestimate me just because I’m a woman,” Elora said with steel in her voice. “The family I grew up in taught me to be as ruthless as I needed to be. Showing kindness to enemies is cruelty to yourself. And I have no intention of being cruel to myself.”
She never spared those who harmed her—not when they begged for mercy, and not when they sent others to plead on their behalf. Elora wasn’t a saint, and she never pretended to be one.
“People in my position can’t afford to be saints,” she continued. “If you’re too soft, you’ll destroy yourself. I’ve had to be ruthless. It’s the only way to make others think twice before targeting me or coveting the Ormond family’s assets.”
Yes, most of her generation in the Ormond family were women. But daughters were just as capable of carrying on the family legacy as sons.
The worst of her relatives used to argue that daughters shouldn’t inherit or take over the family business because they would eventually marry and leave.
“Get out of here with that nonsense,” Elora said with a sharp edge. “Who are they to tell me how to run my family?”
Tatum chimed in, his tone somber. “It doesn’t matter who you are or what family you come from—if you’re not strong, you’ll be trampled on. The world isn’t fair. It’s survival of the fittest.”
“My grandmother always told us that wealth rarely lasts beyond three generations. She dedicated herself to raising my brothers and me to be strong and capable. Our York family has managed to sustain its fortune for generations, but that’s only because we’ve worked hard to protect the foundation our ancestors built.”
“But nothing lasts forever,” Tatum continued. “Even the biggest companies face the risk of being left behind. The world is changing so fast, and industries are becoming saturated. Sometimes, it’s not about failing to protect your legacy—it’s about being overtaken by the times.
Sure, we can try to adapt, but successful transformations are rare. And the stakes are enormous. If York Corporation were to go under, nearly 100,000 people would lose their jobs. Many of them have been with us for 10, 20 years or more. They’re older now, with aging parents and young children to support. Losing their jobs would devastate their lives.”
Tatum’s voice softened, a hint of weariness creeping in. “People in power carry a heavy burden. The pressures and worries never go away.”
Married At First Sight Chapter 4057
Chapter 4057
Elora turned her head toward Tatum.
Tatum paused his massage and asked softly, “Is it uncomfortable? I can adjust. I’m not very experienced since I rarely give massages, but I’d like to get better. Whenever I have time in the future, I’ll give you more massages to improve my skills so I can serve you better.”
Elora smiled gently. “No, it’s perfect. Every time you talk about Old Mrs. York, I can’t help but want to meet her.”
To Elora, Old Mrs. York had become a figure of legend—an extraordinary woman with an indelible presence.
Tatum kept his thoughts to himself. Grandma has already seen you before, and you’ve seen her too—you just didn’t realize who she was.
His grandmother had chosen Elora for him after what must have been a lengthy period of observation. She’d taken the time to understand Elora, to see her strength and integrity. Grandma must have been confident in Elora’s character and abilities to have made her choice.
“When you’re less busy, if you’re interested, you could visit Wiltspoon in the spring,” Tatum suggested. “When the flowers are in full bloom, the scenery is breathtaking. I’d be happy to be your personal tour guide, and I’ll cover everything—lodging, meals, and even your round-trip tickets.”
Elora’s smile widened. “It’s been so long since I’ve traveled. My schedule is always packed, and it’s hard to find time. Maybe someday. Or you could invite your grandmother to visit Annenburg. Although, I imagine traveling might be inconvenient for her at her age. If she’s willing, I could arrange for a private plane to bring her here. I’d really love to meet her—I’m so curious about her.”
Elora admired strong women above all else. Women like Old Mrs. York, who had wielded power and influence from a young age and carried it gracefully into old age, were her inspiration.
Tatum replied, “Grandma isn’t home right now. She’s out traveling. She’s still in great health and loves her adventures—sometimes she even sneaks away without telling us.
“Last year, she stayed close to home because my eldest brother kept urging her to. That was mostly because my sister-in-law was pregnant, and Grandma wanted to make sure my brother was taking good care of her. But now that the baby’s born, she’s back to her adventures.
“This time, she took my mom and two aunts with her. My dad, meanwhile, stayed home by himself. He was so lonely he called my brother to complain about it.”
Elora’s interest in the York family deepened with every word. Hearing Tatum talk about them painted a picture of a family full of love and warmth.
Even Tatum’s parents, who had to be in their sixties by now, still seemed deeply in love. It was both admirable and enviable.
“Where did your grandmother go this time?” Elora asked, letting herself relax under Tatum’s skilled hands.
Tatum, who had already impressed her with his cooking, now added another skill to his list. As the young master of a family worth billions, his versatility continued to surprise her.
“She went to the provincial capital to visit an old friend,” Tatum explained. “That friend has a sweet granddaughter my grandmother adores. Grandma visits her every so often and sometimes stays for weeks, even months.”
Elora chuckled softly. “Your grandmother sounds delightful. It’s easy to imagine her doting on that little girl.”
The York family was like a Buddhist temple—peaceful yet devoid of daughters for three generations.
There was a saying: if a woman married into the York family and gave birth to a daughter, her status would soar overnight.
Elora refocused her attention and said, “Alright, you should go prepare lunch now. I’ll eat once I’ve finished my work.”
Tatum immediately stopped and replied with a respectful tone, “Of course. I’ll get started on lunch right away, young lady.”
Married At First Sight Chapter 4058
Chapter 4058
Tatum exited the CEO’s office briskly.
As he stepped out, he ran into Tinsley, who was on her way to see Elora.
“Second Miss,” Tatum greeted politely.
Tinsley gave a small nod. Once Tatum walked away, she knocked on the office door and entered.
“Tatum showed up early today to cook for Elora,” she commented casually.
Holding a folder in her hand, Tinsley approached Elora’s desk. She opened the folder as she sat down and handed it to her sister. “Elora, this document is urgent. Please take a look first,” she said.
Elora took the folder, her eyes scanning the pages as she replied, “He comes around the same time every day. He’s never early or late.”
Tinsley added, “That guy Labbe is here again.”
She had only just learned that Mr. Labbe, the notorious schemer, had shown up yet again asking to meet Elora.
Without looking up, Elora responded, “I didn’t meet him. He brought gifts, claiming they were New Year’s presents for us. I had someone return them. He’s ambitious and full of bad intentions. We’re already too busy protecting ourselves from him. There’s no way we’d give him a chance to collaborate with us.”
The Labbe family was influential and powerful, but Elora didn’t trust Mr. Labbe. She didn’t like him either.
While outsiders knew little about the internal power struggle within the Labbe family, Elora was well aware that their direct lineage had been nearly wiped out. Only the youngest son of the previous family head had survived—and even then, he’d disappeared without a trace.
Whether the boy was alive or not remained a mystery, and even if he were alive, the odds of him surviving to adulthood—let alone seeking revenge and reclaiming his family’s legacy—were slim.
Would Mr. Labbe allow that child to grow up?
Absolutely not.
That man had spent years relentlessly hunting for the boy.
Rumors had even reached Mr. Labbe that the adopted son of the eldest young lady from the Johnson family might be the missing Labbe heir. However, his attempts to verify the claim hit a wall. The Johnson family wasn’t one to be trifled with.
Not only did he fail to uncover any proof, but his suspicions also alarmed the Johnson family, prompting them to shield their adopted son even further. Soon, there was no trace of the boy. Families close to the Johnsons also denied having seen him.
For Mr. Labbe, the missing boy was like a heavy stone suspended over his head—one that could fall at any moment, turning into a sharp blade that might end him.
Elora set the document aside and said, “I asked around. This time, the man brought a young man with him. One of the security guards overheard the boy calling him ‘Dad.’ He’s probably his eldest son.”
She continued, “Mr. Labbe and his wife have two sons and a daughter. All three are grown now and assist him with his schemes. He clearly favors his eldest son. In fact, Mrs. Labbe has managed to maintain her position as his wife largely because her children have become his strongest allies.”
Pausing briefly, she added, “Whatever he’s planning, make sure someone keeps a close watch on them. I want to know who they meet, what they do—everything. We’ve made too many enemies to take any chances.”
Elora wasn’t afraid of Mr. Labbe himself, but she worried about the alliances he might forge with her family’s business rivals. If he joined forces with their enemies, the Ormod family could face real trouble.
Married At First Sight Chapter 4059
Chapter 4059
Tinsley hummed softly.
After Elora signed off on the documents, Tinsley spoke up. “Sister, why don’t you just get into a relationship? Neither of us has a boyfriend, and people outside are constantly trying to control us through marriage. You don’t have to marry anyone—just date someone, or even fake it. That’ll make them drop the idea.”
Elora looked up at her sister with a faint smile. “And what’s your plan?”
Tinsley shrugged. “I haven’t even been in a relationship yet. They just see me as this unfeeling person who’s impossible to control. If I were to date someone, they’d think I’m like any other girl—falling in love, planning a future, maybe even getting married. But that would only make them push harder.”
Unless her boyfriend was powerful enough to make everyone think twice, with a family strong enough to rival the Ormonds, and he truly loved her without coveting their wealth, she didn’t see a way forward.
Power, status, wealth, and integrity—finding a man with all of that was almost impossible.
Elora sighed inwardly. She didn’t care for any of the so-called young talents in Annenburg. Every one of them wanted to marry into the Ormond family to advance their own interests. They all had the same ambition—marry her and gain control of the family empire.
Marriage, after all, was often about mutual benefit.
Elora could accept that, to an extent. But what she couldn’t stand were the two-faced ones—those who spoke about mutual benefit while secretly plotting to seize the Ormond family’s business.
It didn’t help that the Ormond family had too many daughters.
That’s just how society works. For all the talk about gender equality, the reality is still far from it.
If she had an older or younger brother closer in age, the elders wouldn’t have invested so much in grooming her. They wouldn’t have expected her to take over.
When she turned 20, her parents had a son. The family was overjoyed, calling it a blessing from above, as if the Ormond family had finally found its “true” successor.
But what about her and her sisters? Weren’t they descendants of the Ormond family too?
How could anyone say the family had no successors?
Elora loved her family and treated them well, but deep down, she knew the elders placed their hopes on her two younger brothers.
Right now, her brothers were still young, and she was unmarried, so the elders didn’t worry much. But in ten years, they’d likely start involving the boys in the family business, preparing them to take over.
Elora, however, had her own private ventures. She had no intention of monopolizing the family empire. She’d assured the elders repeatedly that once her younger brother was ready, she’d gladly hand over the reins.
There was no need to fear her holding onto power.
Her parents, however, were obsessed with her marriage prospects. The moment she even hinted at liking someone, they’d become overly critical, digging into the man’s background, scrutinizing his every move, terrified he’d try to take over the family business.
What man would willingly endure being treated like a potential thief by his in-laws?
It was one reason Elora had no interest in dating.
At 27, she was still young and in no rush to marry. She figured she’d wait. If the right person came along, she might consider marrying him—even if only on a contract basis.
She wasn’t hoping for a lifelong marriage. She wanted a relationship that would last a few years, maybe long enough to have a child. Even if they couldn’t grow old together, at least she’d have a child to keep her company. That way, if the marriage failed, she wouldn’t walk away with nothing.
If she never met the right person, she wouldn’t marry at all.
“Tinsley, you’re trying to bring Tatum up again, aren’t you?”
Elora’s voice softened, but her knowing look pierced through her sister’s intentions.
She had seen it coming. From the start, Elora had always asked Tinsley if her feelings for Tatum were genuine. She had even considered helping Tinsley and Tatum get together.
Married At First Sight Chapter 4060
Chapter 4060
Now, the tables have turned.
Elora had shifted her focus to bringing Tinsley and Tatum together.
Whenever Tatum left, Tinsley seemed to appear right after, and it wasn’t lost on Elora that her sister’s timing often had something to do with him. If not for Tatum’s unwavering loyalty, Elora might have suspected that he’d bribed Tinsley.
Tinsley smiled slyly. “When I came in, I saw Tatum heading out. He was very polite to me, with a gentle smile and respect in his eyes. It’s so different from the way he looks at you, Sister. I’ve noticed for a while now—when Tatum sees you, there’s something in his eyes: light, affection, and devotion. He’s not just loyal to you. He adores you.”
Elora was left speechless.
Tinsley continued with a playful grin, “Sister, I said it the first time I saw Tatum—he’s no ordinary man. And I’ve always thought the two of you are a perfect match. You know me, Sister. I’ve never joked about your relationships, but after meeting Tatum, I can’t help myself.
Now that I know his true identity—the sixth young master of the York family in Wiltspoon—I’m even more convinced. The York family is a billionaire dynasty, and though they’re far from us, their reputation for integrity and tradition makes them a perfect match for our family.
Sister, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone better than Tatum. He checks all the boxes for me.”
Elora replied with calm resolve, “Tinsley, maybe you should consider starting a matchmaking business. Pairing up singles in Annenburg could be your new calling. But as for my love life, don’t worry about it. I have it under control.
No matter what the outside world thinks of us or how ambitious or cunning they may be, let them come. I’ll handle it. I don’t need to rely on anyone.”
Even though Tatum might seem like the perfect partner, Elora didn’t want to secure the Ormond family’s future through love or marriage. She wanted to stand on her own and crush every threat against her family with her own strength.
That way, her enemies wouldn’t just respect her—they’d fear her.
Depending on a marriage to maintain power? That was a gamble she wasn’t willing to take.
What if the marriage failed?
They always said it’s better to rely on yourself than anyone else.
The best option? Be strong.
“Tatum? He’s fine. Let him be,” Elora finally said, loosening her resistance to Tinsley’s attempts at matchmaking.
After spending so much time with Tatum and truly getting to know him, Elora couldn’t deny feeling a little moved.
But shifting her tone, she warned, “You should keep an eye on the Labbe family. Their eldest son, Timothy, is about your age, isn’t he? They’ll likely start targeting you.”
Tinsley’s expression darkened. “They look down on me.”
Elora smiled knowingly. “They’ve underestimated you. Use that to your advantage. Catch them off guard. It’s a good thing for us.”
Tinsley’s eyes gleamed with determination. “If they dare to underestimate me, I’ll make sure they understand the consequences of doing so.”
The sisters exchanged a confident smile, their thoughts aligning as they analyzed the moves Mr. Labbe might make.
Meanwhile, Mr. Labbe had already boarded a plane to Wiltspoon.
In Wiltspoon, Carrie received word that the sponsor would be arriving in a few hours. She was instructed to prepare for his arrival.
While shopping, Carrie silently cursed Mr. Labbe, muttering to herself about the “old pervert.”
Even as she grumbled inwardly, she wore a cheerful façade.
There was one upside to his visit. By playing her cards right, she could butter him up, coax a little extra cash out of him, and maybe even get him to buy her the expensive jewelry and handbags she had been eyeing but couldn’t afford.