The CEO's Unplanned Heir novel Chapter 1071

Fredric pled with a quiver in his voice, "I'm begging you this one time, grant me this bit of freedom. I rushed into marriage without thinking it through, and I'm willing to give up half of my assets for the kids. They won't suffer, I promise."

Tears streamed down Sheryl's cheeks as she sobbed, "All these years I've been by your side, raising our children, never stepping a foot wrong. Even when you were out partying until dawn, I turned a blind eye. What more do you want from me? If a change of heart means divorce, what's the point of the Stirling family values? Who would feel secure marrying into the Stirling family?"

Aunt Ethel spoke with authority, "We've discussed this beforehand and we won't approve the divorce. You're not young anymore, Fredric. It's time to settle down. Keep your mistresses if you must, but Sheryl stays your legal wife."

Fredric’s aunts were unyielding in their stance. And his uncles remained silent beside them, well aware that to maintain their positions of power, they couldn't afford to let their home lives erupt into chaos.

Jessica said sternly, "Fredric, as the eldest, you should be setting an example for your younger brothers."

Aurelia, as the matriarch, chaired the meeting but kept her own counsel, remarking only, "If everyone's had their say, let's proceed to a vote."

Those present, as well as those tuned in via video call, reached for their tablets.

The voting was swift, and soon it was time to tally the results.

By the looks of it, Sheryl seemed to hold the winning hand, but to everyone's surprise, the votes in favor of the divorce outnumbered those against.

Whispers fluttered among all members.

Sheryl's face turned ashen, a thunderstruck expression overtaking her, while Fredric was euphoric, having lobbied many of his uncles to support him.

But it was clear that the motion could only have passed with Aurelia and possibly Leopold siding with him. Otherwise, even with the uncles' votes, Fredric was doomed.

Sheryl's eyes desperately sought out Leopold, her last hope. He had the power to veto the decision.

"Leopold, please, help me," she pleaded through tears.