Upon hearing what Robert just said, his father's eyes narrowed, but Robert didn't stop. He knew he had to speak his truth, here and now.
"Yes, I understand that everything this whole arrangement was made for the sake of the family business. I know how much it cost this family to pull strings and build that connection. But even with all that in mind, I still believe that my happiness should come first. I can't pretend anymore, Dad. Abigail is not the woman I can spend the rest of my life with."
There was a moment of silence, his father watching him closely, his face unreadable. But Robert wasn't done.
"I'm not going to lie to you, Dad. I know you must have heard whispers already. But I want you to hear it directly from me, I haven't made any decision yet about anyone else. Yes, there's someone I've been paying attention to. But nothing has happened. I haven't made any move. I'm just… watching."
He paused for a moment, choosing his next words carefully.
