Chapter 827 Take on the Challenge
Ava's words made Cauth's face turn very cold.
"Since you can run for heir not as a direct descendant, why can't Haley?" His eyes were icy, "And Haley is a legitimate descendant of the Lumi Family. If I hear you call her an illegitimate child again, don't call me Uncle Cauth anymore."
Ava stared in disbelief.
Cauth had always doted on her, saving the best things for her. Now he was saying such cruel words to her.
She thought, 'Haley is indeed a bastard! Why can't I say that?'
Just as Ava was about to speak, Hollis pulled her aside.
Hollis's expression darkened as he thought to himself, 'I knew Haley's return to the Lumi Family wasn't going to be straightforward, but I never anticipated she would have such a scheme in mind.
'Over twenty years ago, Cauth and I were on good terms, and I knew about his relationship with Sankar.
'He loved her deeply, though I never learned why she ended up marrying someone else. When Sankar got married, Cauth was in a deep depression for at least two years.
'Soon after, Sankar's untimely death sent Cauth into a further seven-year slump. It was during that period that I slowly gained Bark's trust and began to access the core projects of the Lumi Group. Knowing how much Cauth loved Sankar, it's no surprise he would do anything for her and their daughter. So, whatever Haley wants, Cauth would likely deliver on a silver platter.'
With a deep breath, Hollis addressed the room with a measured tone, "Haley, you've just returned to the Lumi Family, and many things are still unsettled. We can discuss the matter of the heir position in detail later."
Her words snapped many of the guests back to reality.
Recently, Bryan's withdrawal from the succession race had made headlines in Watertown, leaving Ava as the sole contender for the position.
Now that the Lumi Family had recognized Haley, it was surprising that her first question was about the heir's position.
The room buzzed with whispered conversations.
"Haley's ambition is off the charts—she's been with the Lumi Family for just a day and is already eyeing the heir position. Does she even have the capability?"
"For the sake of the Lumi Family's fortune, she's showing a lack of ethics. Mr. Lumi must be regretting this whole event; it's tarnished the family's reputation."
"It looks like Haley and Ivan really are divorced, otherwise, why would she be so focused on the Lumi Family's wealth?"
"If she wants the Lumi Family's fortune, she should take her time. Rushing for the heir position shows her true intentions. Does she think no one notices?"
The murmurs among the guests inevitably reached Cauth's ears.
Cauth's voice was cold as he responded, "Haley is a descendant of the Lumi Family and therefore has the right to compete for the position of heir. It's her rightful claim, and it's not for outsiders to comment on."
"Uncle Cauth, can't you see Haley's ambition?" Ava finally snapped, unable to contain her frustration. "She's only returned to the Lumi Family to secure the heir position! Everyone can see through her schemes—only you still believe she genuinely wants to be your daughter!"
"And what about your own bid for the heir position?" Cauth retorted icily.
As an elder, Cauth didn't want to argue with Ava, who was merely a younger family member, especially in public. However, Ava's behavior had left him deeply disappointed, making his years of affection seem like a waste.
Caught off guard, Ava quickly defended herself, "I'm stepping up because Bryan withdrew from the race. Someone had to take on the challenge. If I don't, who will ensure the Lumi Group has a successor?"
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