Unmasking the Heiress (Evangeline and Walte)

hapter 179

"Evie, life hasn't been kind to you, and no matter how much your uncles and I try, we can't take the place of your real parents.

"Normally, I wouldn't give you a gift at my age-it might mess with your luck. But how could I not give you something for your first birthday with the Fosters?"

Cole's heartfelt words made Evangeline's eyes brim with tears.

"Grandpa, you don't have to do anything..."

Before she could finish, Cole gestured for her to be quiet.

"I don't have much to give, and I wouldn't want to curse your luck, so I'll just give you a little something to remember this day by."

With everyone watching, Cole lifted his left hand. The emerald jade of his ring drew all eyes to it.

That ring was the very one Cole had won from the last great gambler in his legendary victory. Once it became part of the Foster family, it turned into a symbol of their authority.

As the onlookers held their breath, Cole slid the ring off his finger.

The excitement was palpable, with gasps echoing through the room.

If Cole gave that ring to Evangeline, it would mean she was set to be the next leader of the Foster clan!

In a heartbeat, Cole grasped Evangeline's hand, and before she could even react, he slipped the ring onto her left hand.

Evangeline opened her mouth to speak, but Cole did not give her a chance.

"Everyone here today shares a bond with me, and you all understand the weight of the ring I bear.

"Now, I have formally entrusted this ring to my dearest granddaughter Evangeline. Should she face any troubles ahead, I trust you'll all look out for her."

Cole's words were gracious and modest, as f he were asking the guests to watch over Evangeline.

With the Foster family's influence and standing, though, they most certainly did not

+25 BONUS Chapter 179

need them.

It was basically a subtle way of telling everyone that Evangeline was the chosen successor of the Foster family, and that everyone should take note.

Evangeline stared at the ring on her thumb, feeling its weight like a ton of bricks." Grandpa, I'm still so young. How can I shoulder such a huge role?"

To the crowd, stepping up to lead the Foster family meant riches beyond spending and status beyond imagining. To Evangeline, it felt like the world was on her shoulders. Could she really guide the Foster family to new heights?

She even thought that any of her uncles would be a better fit to wield the reins of the family than her.

Nonetheless...

"None of your uncles have their hearts set on the family business, but you, Evie, got that spark. If I can't trust you with the Foster family legacy, then who? Grandpa's not getting any younger, and my health isn't at its best. If I pass away without picking a successor, I'd never be able to rest."

He gave Evangeline's shoulder a reassuring pat.

"Evie, I trust my instincts, and I trust the fire I see in you. You're the best, the absolute- right choice to carry on the Foster name! Plus, you're young-it's the perfect chance for you to get your feet wet. While I'm still kicking, and your uncles are still up to it, why not learn the ropes from them? It's the best way to go, don't you think?