Chapter 595

Over the past few days, Arianna lacked the time to monitor Lily's activities; a larger problem consumed her attention at home. Joseph had brought his illegitimate son home and formally acknowledged him as part of the Tanner family, a development that caught Arianna off guard.

After a brief glance at the boy, Arianna sought out her uncle, Derrick. She knew her mother was powerless to intervene; if anyone could restrain her erratic father, it was Derrick.

"Uncle Derrick," she began, "I heard you haven't been feeling well. I had someone bring back these nutritious supplements from overseas. I hope they improve your health." She smiled, affecting an air of dutiful concern, and gestured towards the gifts.

Derrick nodded, coughing a few times before replying, "You're thoughtful. Why didn't your parents accompany you?"

"Mother's been busy with the Women's Federation, but she often tells me to visit when I'm free. As for Father…" Arianna hesitated, then said reluctantly, "He's… quite busy as well."

Derrick's gaze sharpened. He smiled slightly. "Busy handling that brother of yours, isn't he?"

Arianna's heart lurched. She wasn't surprised he knew, but his attitude was unexpected. His awareness wasn't unusual, but referring to the boy as her brother implied acceptance.

Maintaining her composure, she smiled and nodded. "Yes! Uncle Derrick, I didn't expect you to know. I was worried Father hadn't informed you."

"Indeed, he's impatient," Derrick agreed, then added, "Understandably so."

"Thank you for your understanding," Arianna said. "I feared you'd disapprove."

She lowered her gaze, her eyes dimming slightly. Her mind raced, planning her next move should Derrick condone her father's actions.

"Disapprove?" Derrick chuckled. "This is your father's private matter. Your family's matter. What could I say as an uncle?"

"That's not it," Arianna countered. "You're my father's eldest brother, head of the Tanner family, and closest to me. Our family's success and standing in Sapphine are due to you, Uncle Derrick. We value your opinion, especially regarding family matters."

Arianna watched Derrick carefully. "Including my father. He'll listen to you."

"Really?" Derrick chuckled, his gaze settling on Arianna. He stared into her eyes. "What do you want me to say, then?"

Arianna waved her hands frantically. "Nothing! I wouldn't dare ask. I just… assumed you'd object to my younger brother joining the family. He was born out of wedlock."

"You mean he's an illegitimate child?" Derrick's cough worsened. He retrieved a tissue, spat, and felt immediate relief.

"That's not what I meant, Uncle Derrick. Legitimate or not, he's my father's son, my brother." Arianna wouldn't admit her opposition. Despite her true feelings, she needed to project acceptance, at least to her father and the other Tanners. She had to show them she embraced the boy as family.