Chapter 68
Chapter 68:
The family had been duped by her simple ruses, showering her with affection and admiration.
“Lowell, do you enjoy the cake?” Delilah asked, seating herself across from him, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
“It’s wonderful,” Lowell responded, nodding enthusiastically while giving her a thumbs-up. “The flavor of this cake is truly exceptional. Delilah, your baking skills might even rival those of Gustin’s Cake.”
Delilah’s expression stiffened momentarily, but she quickly mustered a smile. “I’m glad you like it. I really put my heart into making it, so I’m thrilled it wasn’t a waste of time.”
Lowell set his fork aside and gazed at Delilah, his eyes clouded with concern. “Delilah, I promise you. Once I’m at the helm of Edwards Group, I’ll transfer thirty percent of the shares to you. I want everyone to recognize you as the rightful daughter of the Edwards family.”
Delilah, visibly moved, fluttered her hands dismissively. “Lowell, how could I possibly accept that? That’s Dad’s life’s work. As someone who was adopted, how could I claim such a right?”
Before she could continue, Lowell pressed a finger to her lips, silencing her.
The intimate gesture startled them both, causing a mutual recoil.
A flush crept up Lowell’s neck as he cleared his throat awkwardly. “Please, no more talk of rights, Delilah. To me, you are and always will be my sister, nothing less. I’m sure Mom and Dad, along with your other brothers, all feel the same. When the time comes, the entirety of Edwards Group will rightfully be yours.”
Joy surged through Delilah’s heart at his words. Yes, this was exactly as it should be. The entire legacy of Edwards Group would one day be hers.
She hadn’t anticipated such an overt declaration of loyalty and support, especially not so soon after Janice’s departure from the family. But here it was, Lowell’s promise, clear and unequivocal.
“Lowell, you are truly wonderful,” Delilah exclaimed, her arms opening wide as she moved in for an embrace.
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Lowell tensed, the brief contact with her lips still echoing in his senses, sending his thoughts into a whirl.
Just as their arms wrapped around each other, a stern voice cut through the moment. “What are you doing?”
“Mom, you’re back.”
Delilah quickly pushed Lowell aside and got up to greet Laurie, her arms wide open for a hug. But Laurie stepped away at the last second, leaving Delilah embracing empty air.
Delilah froze in shock. Laurie would always hug her the moment she arrived, then stroke her hair and ask about her day. Why was she suddenly acting so distant?
Laurie noticed the look of bewilderment on Delilah’s face and realized that her action might have been hurtful. She forced a smile and said, “I had a very long day, and I feel a little out of sorts. I’ll go take a shower.”
“Is something wrong, Mom?” Delilah asked with concern.
“It’s nothing much, just that… I’m finding it hard to get the company’s new project to move forward. I’ve had to visit several other companies to seek collaboration, but…” Laurie trailed off and sighed helplessly.
In truth, all the difficulties the company was currently facing would be solved if she could secure a partnership with JE.
If JE gave her approval, not only could Laurie’s project proceed smoothly, but the other companies would be the ones extending offers to her instead of her seeking them out.
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