Chapter 80
Ethan felt a pang of guilt, tom by the Impossible choice before him. “But…”
“No buts!” Nathan interrupted, his tone softening slightly. “The auction is just days away, and The Fosters of Northcrest are determined to acquire the Eastborough land. Even if we, The Linwood Group, join forces with the Cole Corporation, we might not be able to outbid the Foster family.”
Nathan frowned, concern etched across his face. “If the Foster family gets Eastborough, our position in Cresthaven will slowly be eroded. The authorities have already issued documents prioritizing the Eastborough Project, and once it’s developed, the business focus will shift there. If the Foster family controls Eastborough, they’ll hold the economic power of Cresthaven.”}
He continued, his voice heavy with worry. “The Linwood Group and the Cole Corporation can’t match Foster & Co. Our only option is to collaborate with them, and a marriage alliance seems like the best way.”
Ethan clenched his fists, his knuckles whitening with tension, guilt for Claire weighing heavily on him.
Adah, standing nearby, began to sob quietly. “Ethan, we don’t want this either, but the family’s business supports so many employees. We have no other choice. Do you think your father and I are happy about this? I haven’t slept well since I thought of Claire having to endure this.”
She wiped her tears, her voice trembling. I’m her mother, my love for her is no less than yours as her brother. The Foster heir might have a bad reputation, but his family is well–established. Rumors aren’t always true, and perhaps he’s not as ruthless as they say.“2 Ethan remained silent, understanding his parents‘ concerns. Personal happiness seemed insignificant compared to family interests. The room was thick with tension and silence until Vanessa spoke up, her voice shaky. “Mom, Dad, I’ll marry Heir Foster in Claire’s place. All eyes turned to her, and they saw her tear–filled eyes, trying to smile through her sadness. “If it helps The Linwood Group, I’m willing to do anything.”
“I’m not your biological daughter. When Claire returned, I should have left, but I was too young and loved you all too much to leave. Now, I’m grown up and can contribute to the family. I’m willing to marry for the family’s sake.”
Tears spilled over as Vanessa finished speaking, her voice growing hoarse. “Will you still acknowledge me after I’m married?”
Adah pulled her into a hug, both of them in tears. “Oh, sweetheart, what are you saying? You’ll always be my daughter. I can’t let you marry someone with such an unstable reputation. We won’t go through with it…“}
Witnessing this heartfelt moment, Nathan was moved, turning to Ethan with a sigh. “Vanessa is so understanding, so precious to us. We’ve cherished her for over twenty years. Can you truly bear to let her marry like this?”
Vanessa looked at her father, determination in her eyes. “Dad, I don’t mind. If it helps our family, I’m willing to do anything.” Her voice was steady despite the tears, a brave smile on her face.
Her selflessness only deepened Ethan’s internal struggle. He closed his eyes tightly, whispering, “Claire… she’s stronger than you think.”
The message couldn’t have been clearer.
