"What did Mom say?" Celine asked, sipping her soy milk.

"What else would she say? You know Mom has always favored me. I'm her biological son! She'll side with me, of course." Ralph's confidence was unshakeable.

Margaret's favoritism had led him to believe the Russell family belonged to him. Even if he didn't inherit everything, he expected the lion's share. He never anticipated his father leaving the family business to Alexander.

Instead, Ralph received only a small equity stake. He inherited little of the family's other holdings—real estate, stores—a mere fraction of the Russell family's vast wealth. Resentment simmered within him toward his father.

Celine finished her soy milk, wiped her mouth, and set down the cup. "I see," she replied calmly. "Thank you for breakfast."

"So, we're agreed, Celine? You'll help me when the time comes. Remember, we're siblings, in this together!" Ralph declared. "I won't forget you when I take control. I'll give you more than Alex ever would."

Celine nodded calmly. "Of course. Only Russell family members should inherit family assets. I'll support Mom and agree with whatever she decides." Her words were a reassurance to Ralph. He felt confident and satisfied. "Exactly," he said. "Only Russell family members. It's our legacy, from this day forward." Celine offered a meaningful, yet noncommittal smile.

Ralph felt a sense of relief after instructing his mother and sister. He lit a cigarette and gazed from the balcony. The Russell Estate was old, but extensively renovated. Its grounds were vast, encompassing everything around it.

Hugo hadn't designated the estate in his will, but Alexander had given it to Ralph. Ralph cared little for the old house; it paled in comparison to the rest of the Russell fortune. Alexander had taken so much, leaving him with this paltry house and a meager allowance. Ralph felt treated like a beggar, given charity by his nephew. He wanted to reclaim what he believed was his and seize everything from Alexander.

He held his cigarette, squinting as he anticipated the arrival of the expected cars. Today's visitors would witness a new chapter in his life. He suddenly thought of Heather, who had defied him. They were to meet at her company that day, but she had backed out. He didn't expect long-term cooperation from someone with apparent psychological issues, but her support would be invaluable.

'What a pity,' he mused.

His phone rang. He was surprised to see Heather's number.

'Didn't she block me?' he wondered.

Suspiciously, he answered. "Ms. Riggs."

"Isn't there a family meeting today? Has it started?" Heather asked directly.

He grinned. "Not yet. Interested in attending? It would be a shame to miss it."