Chapter 1076

"Sure," Heather readily agreed. "See you later." She hung up, her swiftness making Ralph suspicious. He expected her to be ecstatic, full of anticipation. Her quick agreement surprised him; it was nothing like he'd imagined. It was a little unsettling, but then, Heather was unlike any other woman he knew. Perhaps her unusual reaction was perfectly normal for her. With that thought, he hummed a tune and showered, preparing for the evening. Tonight, he'd have a crucial conversation and embrace his new life.

At six p.m., as Ralph prepared to leave for the hotel, Celine appeared, noticing his buoyant mood.

"Heading out for a wild night?" she asked.

"Hey! What are you talking about? I'm going to discuss business and strike a huge deal," Ralph explained, clicking his tongue in a delighted tone.

"What kind of deal? Do you even have the ability to do that now?" Celine scrutinized him. Ralph wasn't particularly important to her, but that could change, depending on which side someone chose. Alexander, at least, was on her side. "Mind your own business!" he snapped, unwilling to continue the conversation. He'd instructed Margaret to keep the secret handbook from Celine, believing it best she remained uninformed. He intended to lead the Russell family, not his sister.

"Oh, right. Are the test results out yet?"

"You want to know?" Celine mimicked his tone. "Go to the hospital and check yourself!"

She then entered the house, leaving him to watch her go. He pursed his lips.

"You arrogant bitch! You'll beg me on your knees when I gain control of the Russell family. Just wait!" He flipped his hair and left, self-assured.

Celine, however, didn't return to her room but went to her mother's. "Mom, I'm back."

Margaret, drowsy from dinner, forced herself to focus. "Yeah? You're back. How are the results?"

"They're out," Celine said, her expression strange. She approached her mother with a folder. "I think you should mentally prepare yourself before looking at them."

"It's been days. What makes you think I haven't prepared? I've considered everything. If he's not related by blood, we can't let an outsider control the family, no matter how much your dad adored him. We'll give him money to live comfortably—that's all."

Margaret gazed out the window. Though she disliked her grandson, she'd watched him grow. If Alexander weren't biologically related, all Hugo's efforts would be for naught.