Chapter 596

Nodding gravely, Derrick agreed, "You're right. I thought the same, so I didn't intervene."

Arianna fell silent. Only her uncle's presence—the man who had watched her grow up in the Oakley mansion—prevented her from suspecting Derrick's sincerity.

"You're different from me, Uncle Derrick," she said. "No matter what my father does, I must support him. But you're the head of the Tanner household. I thought you would oppose him to protect the family's reputation. The rumors are disturbing. My so-called brother is young. What will company employees and shareholders think if my father allows him to join? Will more rumors surface? I worry about our family's standing." She sighed. "I know I shouldn't dwell on this, but as a family member, I must consider our reputation. My father was too hasty this time!"

Her anxiety was palpable. Her concern for her family was genuine; her actions, however misguided, stemmed from a desire for their well-being.

"Arianna, you've truly matured," Derrick said earnestly, gazing deeply at his niece. "Honestly, I would have opposed your father in the past. But my recent illness has given me a new perspective. You're right. Though your brother is illegitimate, he shares your blood and the Oakley name. As for the rumors, let them be. Family unity is paramount. Don't you agree?"

Arianna nearly bristled at his use of her own words. Taking deep breaths, she replied, "Yes, Uncle Derrick."

"I know you're an excellent young woman. You'll understand someday," Derrick said, smiling faintly before coughing, his face flushing. "I'm unwell, but you needn't stay for dinner. Go home, give my regards to your parents, and try to get along with your brother. Be a good sister to him."

"Yes, Uncle Derrick," Arianna forced a smile, rising. "I'll take my leave."

His only response was another coughing fit.

Suppressing her anger, Arianna left the Oakley mansion, glaring back coldly. He's getting old and confused, she thought. I've dedicated my life to this, and now he wants me to reconcile with that brat? The old man's dying!

She disgustedly wiped her nose with a tissue, then discarded it. With her uncle unsupportive, she needed a new strategy. The Oakleys would be hers, by any means necessary.

Chapter 597

"Mr. Tanner, Arianna has left."

Derrick nodded, picking up his teacup. His eyes slowly opened, revealing a brilliant, though dimmed, light. "Bring me the phone."