Chapter 1131
Even if this matter spiraled out of control, Alexander was not a Russell, and Ralph intended to remove him from the family. Ralph believed he would succeed with or without the family's support; he had nothing to fear.
Lily found Heather's reaction particularly intriguing. She and Alexander had already observed Heather's dual personalities: one composed and calm, the other weak and submissive. Now, Heather exhibited the latter, sitting quietly. When Heather had previously entered the courtyard, Lily hadn't sensed the aura of a seasoned kickboxer, nor the commanding presence of a family matriarch. It was all unsettlingly strange. Lily suspected Heather was concealing shocking secrets.
As the atmosphere grew tense, Ralph anxiously winked at Celine. They had agreed on a strategy, but Margaret had changed her mind, and Ralph feared Celine might waver. Celine needed to press Margaret to reveal the truth.
After looking at Ralph, Celine said softly, "Mom, everyone wants to know the truth, even if you're reluctant to discuss it. Ralph is determined to reveal it and will continue until he does. You might as well tell the truth so everyone can understand."
As Alexander's aunt and Ralph's sister, Celine's words carried considerable weight, especially since she spoke the truth. If Margaret tried to vaguely dismiss the matter, it would invite criticism. Should Alexander one day lead the Russell family, such ambiguity would breed resentment.
"Sigh..." Margaret sighed deeply, raising her head to gaze out the window. The bright sun beat down on a clear day, making it difficult for her to open her eyes as tears welled. The sight was unbearable for everyone.
"Mom..." Ralph began.
"Ralph," Margaret said, turning, "everything that happened today is because of your actions!" She sighed again and asked for a document to be brought.
Ralph's excitement surged at the sight of the document. The critical moment had arrived. Despite Margaret's strange words, it no longer mattered. The DNA report Ralph had prepared would leave Alexander no room to argue.
If Margaret relented and didn't use a substituted report, she could accuse Ralph of slander. However, Ralph could counter by blaming the lab for an error or claiming he didn't know which of two copies was authentic. He could then request another DNA test and avoid defamation. The risk was minimal; success today could change his life.
"This is a DNA test report," Margaret announced, holding up a stack of papers. "Se had a DNA test done a few days ago, and these are the results. I initially considered this a private family matter and didn't want to discuss it. But since everyone here is a Russell, and Ralph insists on resolving this issue, we should discuss it!"