Chapter 975

"That's right," Celine responded with a smile. "I heard you manage a different class than others, but seeing it today, I'm convinced! With your charm and power, no wonder you handle such a large family. I admire that. I wish I'd possessed half your charm in my youth."

"You just goof around all day. You're not as sensible as Ms. Riggs," Margaret countered.

Heather was slightly irritated by their attempts to impress her. Accustomed to flattery, she was weary of it. She hadn't expected even the Russells to be so obsequious. All the Russells, except Alexander, had fallen in her estimation.

Initially, she'd aimed to undermine Alexander, but a thorough investigation had caused her to abandon that plan. He was shrewd and challenging, almost devoid of weaknesses. This wasn't due to fear of difficulty, but rather a reluctance to let a man impede her career. A man as shrewd as herself would be a troublesome adversary.

Ralph, however, was different. Stupid and greedy, he was an easy target. "Since we know each other, let's get to the point," she declared, impatient with pleasantries.

Her directness surprised the Russells; they exchanged glances. Margaret smiled. "Ms. Riggs is certainly straightforward, but... did you come alone today?"

Heather glanced around, shrugged, and replied, "Yeah?"

"This… is a marriage matter. Won't your parents be here to discuss it?" Margaret asked, curiously.

Though Heather now headed the Riggs family, her parents were still alive; their absence might be acceptable for lesser occasions. But their non-appearance at such a significant event as a marriage meeting was unusual.

"Heather said she handles major life events herself. Her parents are very open-minded," Ralph interjected hastily, explaining a point that had previously puzzled him. Heather had indeed told him this, adding, "It doesn't have to be you. You need to understand that I don't like you. I chose you for your background. We're all adults, and we all know what maximizing profit means, so let's avoid clichés."

He was surprised but ultimately agreed, despite a twinge of resentment. She was right. Without the Riggs family's influence, he wouldn't be courting her. Everything was about maximizing benefits, yet her cold delivery still made him uncomfortable. It felt as if he possessed no charm whatsoever. His appeal stemmed solely from his surname—Russell—and his status as Margaret's favorite youngest son. Beyond that, there was no personal connection.

If that were true, why then her shyness around him? Why the kisses? Why the pierced ears?