Napier took a slow sip of coffee, a slight, unreadable smile on his face. “Well, why don’t you take a guess?”

Wade’s expression tightened. He was usually the one provoking others, but this time Napier had turned the tables on him. Irritated, he went back to tending his plants, while Napier turned his attention to the others.

“The Armstrong family has a contract with JM Investments,” Brea said. “This past year, their performance has been strong, and working with them has been smooth.”

Nixon lifted his hands lightly. “I’m only here to observe. Completely neutral, haha.”

Lois added, “We’re focused on Trudy’s wedding preparations.”

Adkins simply shook his head, choosing not to voice any stance.

In truth, each influential figure had their own agenda. Even if they shared an opinion, they would never state it plainly, and would always leave room to retreat. But everyone understood that with Millie waking up, the balance of power in Crobert might shift entirely. The Bennett family seemed to be on the brink of a resurgence.

Over the next three days, astonishing rumors spread through Crobert like wildfire, each one more unbelievable than the last. The entire city buzzed with restless energy, as if something unseen was pushing everyone forward.

Among all the talk, the most jaw-dropping revelation was that Brandon had transferred a portion of his assets to Ari’s name.

“Isn’t Ari Millie and Myron’s daughter? What reason would Brandon have to hand over his assets to her?”

“And it’s not just money. These are major holdings — liquid funds, stocks, and real estate. Bank balances, stock rights, and properties located both in Crobert and in prime overseas areas are all part of it!”

“I heard Brandon had planned to hand over half of his assets to Ari, but she only accepted some of it and left the remainder untouched.”

“I’ve heard Brandon absolutely adores Ari. It looks like she truly is the apple of his eye.”

“Not just him. Over the past year, Myron has brought Ari along to countless social events. Everything Millie owns is being passed to her, and Myron has openly named her as his heir.”

“Charles has never hidden how much he pampers Ari either.”

“Exactly. She’s been treated like royalty all along.”

“Well, you have to remember who Ari’s parents are.”

Outside the hospital, conversations rippled endlessly, while inside, everything ran at a relentless pace. During those three days, Millie went through a series of thorough medical examinations. Once the results were finalized, the doctors tailored a rehabilitation program specifically for her condition.

The following day, Eugene came to see Millie to speak with her about Brandon’s plans. Ari stayed by Millie’s side the whole time.

“Mom,” Ari said softly, lifting her gaze to Millie.

Millie paused, weighing her thoughts, and then replied calmly, “We’ll keep some of it, then.” She studied the lengthy list Eugene had brought and selected several entries with a deliberate gesture.

Eugene hesitated, looking clearly conflicted.

“He’ll accept it,” Millie said confidently. “There’s no need to worry.”

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