Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 988

For a split second, Nyla hesitated. She had once truly loved her father. However, seeing Dominic sobbing on the floor, pathetic and pitiful, she finally saw him for what he really was.

The so-called fatherly authority he used to carry was nothing more than fear-based dominance—he was no different than any other coward clinging to survival.

She said calmly, "You don't have to worry. I won't pursue charges against you or Camilla."

Nyla turned her head away, refusing to look at him again. "But whatever bond we had as father and daughter… ends here."

Dominic's face twisted in disbelief. "Nyla, what are you saying? You're seriously going to steal my position as family head?"

Nyla shook her head and let out a soft scoff. "I'm not stealing anything. But tell me—do you really think you're still fit to be the head of this family?"

Dominic opened his mouth, but nothing came out. His throat locked up like someone was physically choking the words from him.

Francesca stepped forward with a bright smile. "Congratulations, Nyla. You'll be the first female family head in all of Jayrodale—and one of the youngest at that!"

Nyla flushed shyly. "Dr. Aicker, I don't think I'm ready for that. I'm not suited to lead the family. There are better candidates… like Uncle Alfred. He should take the position instead."

Andrew grinned. "Alfred, look at that—Nyla's already showing humility. She wants you to take the helm. Why don't you just accept and lead the Goth family yourself?"

Alfred nearly wet himself on the spot. Internally, he cursed Andrew for being a smiling devil in disguise. If he really let the idea go to his head and stepped up now, he would probably end up floating face-down in the river tomorrow.

"Mr. Lloyd, you must be joking. I'm way too old for that position. Nyla is the rightful successor. She's the perfect choice. And let me make this clear—if anyone in this family dares defy her authority, I'll personally see them thrown out of the Goth family!"

Alfred slapped his chest proudly as he made the declaration to Andrew.

Andrew smirked. It was clear this old man was ten times smarter than Dominic.

That entire moment had been a test. If Alfred had gotten too excited and accepted the offer without a second thought, Andrew would have taught him the difference between surface-level words and what was really being said.