Chapter 976

While Ralph considered this, he glanced subconsciously at Heather's ears. He was pleased to see the earrings he'd given her. He felt much better. Women were such contradictory creatures! Heather clearly loved him, yet acted indifferent.

Ralph attributed this to her public role as head of the household. He would simply play along. He was confident she would willingly become a homemaker and obedient wife after their marriage. By then, he would control the Riggs family's power and wealth, enabling him to challenge Alexander. With his mother and sister's help, reclaiming the Russell family's control would be easy. This shift in perspective improved his mood, and he sided with Heather.

Unfortunately, Margaret disagreed. She disapproved of Heather's attitude. As an elderly woman, Margaret held conservative views. While she appreciated the Riggs family's support in helping her son regain his birthright, she expected their elders to be present and involved in discussing the marriage details. Heather's apparent lack of concern for the marriage was deeply troubling.

Since her son supported Heather, and they were at a disadvantage, Margaret softened her tone. "Ms. Riggs," she asked, "what are your further plans? What about the..."

"I suggest a simple wedding," Heather replied. "My secretary has copies of my proposal for you to review." She gestured to her assistant, who produced documents from her briefcase, distributing them to Margaret and Ralph.

Both were astonished. They'd never witnessed such a businesslike approach to wedding planning. It resembled a business transaction with a formal contract.

Margaret's frown deepened. Heather had apparently delegated all planning to her assistant. Did she even care about her own marriage? The document overwhelmed Margaret, and she could take no more.

Placing the document on the table, she massaged her temples. "Ms. Riggs, I'm an elderly woman and cannot understand this document. Let's be direct. Since you're making the decisions, name your price, and we'll fulfill our obligations. As your senior—indeed, almost your grandmother—I find this approach quite… unusual."

Margaret remained calm and friendly, even smiling as she sought Heather's input. However, Heather remained arrogant.

"If you, Mrs. Russell, don't understand, my assistant can explain," Heather said. "I don't demand much, only a sensible ceremony, but I wish to expedite..."

"What's the meaning of this!" Celine interrupted, unable to tolerate Heather's attitude. "Ms. Riggs, my mother is your senior. Is this how you treat elders? Did you behave this way with your parents? This is your marriage! Why delegate everything to your assistant? Should she marry on your behalf as well?"