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.
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