Chapter 1128

Alexander couldn't deny the results; Ralph had mandated anonymous voting. Ironically, his uncle was orchestrating his downfall. He remained impassive, calm and collected as always, prepared to confront any adversary.

Lily cared only for Alexander as a person, not his lineage. She gazed at him with unwavering affection, gently stroking her baby bump.

The first round concluded swiftly. "To ensure fairness," Ralph announced, "Alexander and I will abstain. This will reflect everyone's independent opinion." Alexander readily agreed.

Ralph directed a housekeeper, "Fetch Mrs. Russell. This is crucial; she's been resting, but we must await her presence before counting the votes." The housekeepers began counting while the others waited, a mixture of apprehension and detached amusement filling the room.

The potential consequences were immense. A non-blood relative as head of the Russell family would be a scandal, jeopardizing their reputation and Alexander's inheritance. Many feared the negative repercussions. The vote on confiscating the outsider's rights was remarkably close.

Ralph remained unconcerned. He had already decided: Alexander was out. Even if the vote failed to strip him of his power, Ralph would still inherit, seizing the patriarch's position and the family business.

He glanced at the counters, then to the living room; his mother was still absent, likely conflicted. Margaret's kindness, even in her pro-Ralph stance, made the situation difficult for her. She couldn't bear to publicly denounce her grandson.

Ralph smirked at Heather, a smug declaration of his self-sufficiency. He didn't need the Riggs family; he would lead the Russells. Their wealth paled in comparison. To his surprise, Heather's expression wasn't mocking; it was…excited.