Chapter 1063

Margaret sighed, a long, quiet sigh. "I'm so old," she murmured. "Is there any point in fighting? In losing my temper? I only want justice for you, so you can have a better life."

"I've had many children, yet I've never known the joy of grandchildren. I don't know what sin I've committed, but your brothers… they left one by one. This isn't my first child's funeral. All my hopes are on you, my son. I pray for a better life for you."

She raised a hand, the back lined with wrinkles, and gently stroked Ralph's head. Her eyes, filled with love, held his gaze. "You're my legacy, my child. I want you to live well. When I leave, I want to go peacefully."

Ralph's voice held a gentle firmness. "Mom, I'll grant your wish! You'll live to be a hundred, your best days still ahead! You'll be healthy, with grandchildren and great-grandchildren!" He always had a way of soothing Margaret.

A wide smile spread across her face. "Such sweet words! Fine, I'll meet those two tomorrow and try to get them to reveal themselves. After that, it's all up to you. I can't help much."

Ralph nodded repeatedly. "Mom, don't worry. I'll handle it."

After a moment's pause, he asked, "By the way, are Celine's DNA test results back yet?"

Margaret sighed deeply, a tremor in her voice. "Not yet. You know your brother is gone, so now we have to look to the previous generation. Alexander is shrewd; this won't be easy. Be patient."

She yearned for the results, yet dreaded their arrival. The uncertainty of Alexander's parentage filled her with apprehension. If he weren't a Russell, what then? But even if he were, the resentment in her heart would never fade. Still, for her children, she needed the truth.

The city buzzed with the excitement of an approaching wedding. Alexander's lavish announcement, plastered across billboards, offered city-wide discounts and coupons. The festive atmosphere celebrated the couple's union, a joyous event for most.

But not for everyone. Ralph watched the billboards blur past his car window, his face grim. Despite the sleek sports car, the scenery held no charm. His own impending wedding felt insignificant, unnoticed, overshadowed. He lacked the resources for such extravagance; Margaret couldn't compete with Alexander's wealth. They couldn't afford the advertised consumer vouchers. Heather, meanwhile, remained preoccupied with her secret book.