Chapter 665

Jonathan, unwilling to take responsibility, manipulated Lily into undermining Justin in his absence. The ensuing discussion revealed that only Lily and Justin had touched the family seal. "Granduncle Jonathan," Lily sneered, frowning, "who's the accomplice you're referring to? Have you already decided?"

"You" Jonathan began, but was interrupted.

"Sorry I'm late," a familiar voice said.

Lily's expression relaxed as Justin entered the hall, accompanied by his personal assistant and a company director. Jonathan frowned at their presence.

"Justin," he said, "we're here to discuss family matters. Why are you late, and why bring outsiders?"

"Outsiders?" Justin chuckled, glancing around before looking at Jonathan and Henry. "Humans are unpredictable. It's hard to tell who's truly family and who's an outsider!"

His words held a veiled meaning, darkening Jonathan's expression.

"What do you mean?" Jonathan demanded.

"Granduncle Jonathan, don't you understand? Just sit back and watch. You'll soon see," Justin replied, gesturing for his companions to stand aside. Turning to the assembled elders, he continued, "I apologize for my lateness. Urgent company matters required my attention."

"Justin! I'm in charge of the family now! Don't forget that!" Jonathan protested, feeling slighted. He produced the family seal and placed it on the table.

The sound reminded Justin that he had temporarily entrusted the seal to Jonathan. He smiled. "Oh, right. I almost forgot. Granduncle, I gave you the seal for temporary safekeeping a few days ago. Thank you. It's time I reclaimed it and resumed my duties."

Justin reached for the seal. Jonathan, unprepared for this audacity, stopped him.

"Justin! What are you doing? Do you think the family seal is a toy? You can't just hand it over and take it back at will!"

Henry's face fell as he saw Jonathan and Justin grappling for the seal. He longed to seize it.

Ignoring Jonathan's rebuke, Justin sneered, "A toy? For days, you've been scheming to seize control, willing to do anything for the seal—even damage the family's reputation! None of you cared that Grandpa just passed away. Isn't that pathetic?"

Lily felt relieved. Justin's defiance was a welcome sight.

"Justin! Do you know who you're talking to?" Jonathan sputtered, trembling with rage.

Justin, unconcerned by his elder's anger, smirked coldly. "I am the head of the Lodge family. I possess the family seal and the authority to make decisions. Do you know who you're talking to?"

"Why, you—" Jonathan fumed.