Chapter 1123

Hannah bit her lip and mumbled, "I understand."

"Go on," Heather waved dismissively. She looked pale and weak.

"Heather, are you alright?" Hannah asked worriedly.

"I'm fine. Remember what I said," Heather closed her eyes, unwilling to speak further.

She opened them as Hannah quietly left the room. The empty room echoed as she called out, "Chump!"

"Yes, Ms. Riggs," Chump quickly appeared.

"Send two of our most trusted men to follow her, discreetly," Heather instructed, her expression calm, betraying no emotion.

"Yes, ma'am," Chump understood and departed.

He remained by Heather's side as she meditated. She needed someone trustworthy near in case of an emergency, and Chump was the only one suitable. However, she also needed surveillance on Hannah, especially given her recent behavior. Heather needed to ensure everything went smoothly.

As noon approached, most family elders arrived, enjoying tea and snacks. Unaware of the meeting's purpose, they attended due to Margaret's invitation, which emphasized its importance.

The main hall overflowed with family members, but the principal guest was absent. Ralph checked for Alexander's arrival, instructing the housekeeper to attend to the guests and replenish refreshments. He wasn't sure if Heather would attend, but it held little consequence; Alexander was the main focus.

Checking the time, Ralph was about to call his nephew, wondering if he was hesitant to appear, when a housekeeper rushed toward him. "Mr. Alexander is here," she announced.

Alexander and Lily entered the hall together. Some family members rose as they approached. Alexander commanded a strong presence, eliciting respect. Several elders fell silent, turning to regard the couple.

"It's crowded," Lily remarked, surprised by the turnout, despite knowing it was a family meeting. It reminded her of her childhood in the Lodge family. Having grown up and left, such large gatherings were rare.

Alexander gently patted her hand. "If you're uncomfortable, rest in a guestroom. I'll get you when we're finished. I promise it won't be long."

"It's fine," Lily smiled, shaking her head as Ralph approached. "I want to see what he's got planned."

"You're quite the VIP, making such a grand entrance," Ralph chuckled, his good humor evident; even his eyes crinkled in amusement as he anticipated the evening's events. Alexander corrected him, "Uncle, you're mistaken. I'm merely returning home. I hardly qualify as a guest."

"Sometimes," Ralph commented, "it's hard to tell guest from host. Since everyone's here, let's begin."