Reborn From Ashes novel Chapter 228

"What? Hayden bought a raw stone and managed to uncover a top-tier emerald worth 300 million dollars. Who told you this? How reliable is this information?" Francis froze in disbelief before immediately snapping to attention, questioning the source.

"It's 100% accurate. I had someone keeping an eye on Hayden, and even she is stuck in the situation now! Dad, Mom, Anna, should we head over?" Lily's voice carried a trace of nervousness as she asked.

Francis, Charlotte, and the others exchanged glances. Their faces were etched with shock.

"But if we go, what excuse will we use? If we openly acknowledge Hayden as part of the Sterling family, the entire Stonybrook will know he's one of us!" Julia chimed in, her tone serious as she glanced at Francis and Charlotte, observing their expressions.

"Well…" Francis frowned. He was deep in thought.

Though 300 million wasn't a staggering amount for the Sterling family, it wasn't insignificant either. The last failed billion-dollar project had caused significant losses, and this sum could certainly help to recoup some of that damage, especially since it was now practically handed to them.

Across the room, Anna caught the subtle change in Francis' demeanor and immediately realized he was tempted. However, it wasn't Hayden he was interested in. It was the emerald.

"Dad, Hayden's situation seems dire. I think we should step in. Whether it's to help him or to secure the emerald under the Sterling name, we can't stay out of this," Anna urged immediately.

Her argument was laced with hidden motives, aiming to forge a direct connection between Hayden and the family.

"It's possible he's brought up his Sterling lineage to Benjamin as a way to gain leverage. If that's the case, whether we go or not, we'll still be involved. So, it's better to act first and take control of the situation." The smile on Julia's face was laced with mystery.

She saw right through Morgan. However, she had to play it cool so that nobody would know she was trying to help Hayden. Therefore, she came up with that excuse.

"She's right. Julia has a point! That brat is probably going around flaunting his connection to us, trying to gain status and profit. If he starts spreading baseless rumors or tarnishing our family name, it'll be even harder to explain later," declared Francis.

Beneath his composed exterior, his true intentions remained hidden.