Chapter 920

"I don't care about your hobbies. Just behave yourself. Marrying into the Riggs family benefits both you and the Russells. Your father's favoritism toward your brother is why Alex is the way he is. If you were a better son, wouldn't he have given the family fortune to you instead?"

"Dad is biased! He's always favored Patrick and his son. Otherwise, who would give the company to their grandson instead of their son? People still laugh at me about this after all these years!"

Ralph bristled at the mention. His friends were mostly wealthy sons, and while not all succeeded in inheriting the family businesses—usually due to sibling disputes—none were fighting their nephew as he was. Frankly, there was never an opportunity for him to fight for the company. Hugo, before his death, had bequeathed all his fortune to Alexander. Despite his dissatisfaction, Ralph dared not confront Hugo, watching helplessly as his inheritance became another's. The open nature of the situation only amplified his public humiliation.

"Those people are shortsighted. Why be so angry?" Margaret said, shooting him a look. "Didn't I tell you to be adaptable? Hardship brings advancement. Be patient; your time will come. Isn't it arriving now?"

"Do you think marrying Ms. Riggs will get me what I want?" Ralph snorted, his anticipation tempered with doubt.

"Alex doesn't listen to you. How can you expect him to relinquish anything?" Margaret nodded. "You should wait for him to relinquish control. Don't underestimate the Riggs. They're a family of martial artists, secluded on a remote island yet always influential. Many of their disciples become secret agents. They're strong, well-connected, and resourceful. Marrying into such a family would be excellent," she explained earnestly. "Compared to her, the Lodge family is insignificant. She has no support; she's no threat."

Ralph found her words increasingly sensible. She had endured much, granting her a perspective most lacked.

"I understand. I'll ask Ms. Riggs out tomorrow!" He grasped the potential of this marriage. He was eager to proceed.

"Ms. Riggs is the apple of her family's eye. She might be arrogant and aloof, indifferent to outsiders. Control yourself and don't offend her."

Ralph's enthusiasm waned immediately. "Why marry her if she has so many flaws? Why can't I find someone better?"

Margaret shot him another look. "Don't you know your reputation? While you disdain commoners, noble families favor Alex. No one even knows you exist. If Ms. Riggs were flawless, why would you even have a chance?" After a deep breath, she added, "Don't overthink it. This is for your future."