Oswaldo sighed, “Aurora, I might as well be straightforward. There are a hundred reasons in my heart for not wanting to accept them. Yet, they are after all children of the Montgomery family. I’ve turned them away for so many years. I’m afraid I can’t keep doing that.”
“The matter of your mother has always been a guilt in my heart, as my son did not cherish her properly. No matter how much we regret, she won’t come back.”
“I originally thought Magnus and that vixen wouldn’t last long, but who knew they would still be together after more than twenty years? I guess they won’t be apart in this latter half of their lives.”
“The decision is made, and at this critical moment, I don’t want to stop it anymore. I hope you can forgive your father and truly accept them.”
“As for their entry into the Montgomery family, I’ll pick a good day and arrange it.”
Perhaps fearing Aurora would feel let down, Oswaldo elaborated a great deal. Aurora’s eyes twinkled. “Grandfather, of course I accept them, but I do have a suggestion.”
“What suggestion?”
“This time I returned to the country as an exchange student and just so happened to be in the same grade as them. I’ve also heard some not-so-good rumors. I’m very worried. I fully support the idea of letting them enter the company, but what if they bring those bad practices with them?”
“What do you mean by that, Aurora?”
“Officially entering the Montgomery family has always been their desire, and it’s like a huge sword hanging over their heads. If that sword is removed, there’s no guarantee they won’t revert to their old ways.”
“My suggestion is to let them first enter the company and see how they perform, and then decide later whether to let them truly enter the Montgomery family. What do you think about this suggestion, Grandfather?”
Aurora knew once they were given official status, it meant actually giving them shares, which would not be easy to take back. Therefore, she wouldn’t let them get their wish from the start.
Oswaldo nodded in agreement. “You’re right. Why didn’t I think of that? You are smarter indeed. Let’s do this. They are unlearned at school. If they bring those bad habits into the company…”
“Mm, I think this is the safest way.”
“Since we have finished discussing their matter, let’s now talk about yours. Whether they believe it or not, I believe you are certainly capable of establishing a company. You are able to manage a company directly, so it would be a waste of time to have you start with the basics. How about starting as a vice president?”
Oswaldo truly cared for Aurora and immediately offered her the position of vice president, but Aurora shook her head. “Grandfather, it’s not my first day struggling in the workplace. Don’t be fooled by my young age. I’m actually very familiar with the rules of the business world.”
“Being a newcomer, if you gave me the position of vice president right away, people would talk behind my back. Women already face disadvantages in the workplace, and I’m not keen to face others’ disdain.”
“Aurora, I really underestimated you. I didn’t expect you to think so thoroughly. Then what position would you want?”
“As you said, it’s not that I can’t start from the bottom, but it’s just a waste of time. If you think it’s appropriate, how about giving me a director position?”
“A director’s position is neither too high nor too low, with some power yet controlled by others, more challenging than being a vice president. My girl, since you’re willing to take on the challenge, naturally I will give it to you.” Oswaldo greatly admired her.
From Aurora’s demeanor, it was clear she differed from Ivy and her peers. She was independent and steady, and her thoughts were comprehensive and insightful. Unlike Ivy and Zachary, who were preoccupied with designer bags and limited-edition luxury cars, Oswaldo truly believed she could own a publicly traded company based on her eloquence alone. However, his understated granddaughter had mentioned founding a company but had not disclosed which one.
“Grandfather, I have another request,” she said.
“Yes?” he responded.
“Even though I were parachuted into a director-level position, there would still be idle gossip. I don’t want people to know about my status as the Montgomery family heiress. No matter what achievements I make, I would be labeled as the heiress, and people would see not my abilities but the influence of nepotism,” Aurora cautioned.
“It’s rare for you to think of this. If it were any other corporate heir, they might relish being known by everyone. But many know your name. Your cover might be blown the moment you step in,” Oswaldo stated, impressed by Aurora’s desire to succeed on her own merits.
Aurora’s lips curled into a faint smile. “Grandfather, don’t forget I still have another identity in America. I’ll use my other name, Anne. That way, no one will know who I am.”
“Very well. I’ll arrange everything in due time. When would you like to start working?” Oswaldo asked eagerly, looking forward to witnessing Aurora’s capabilities.
“Let me rest for a few days first. I’ll officially join the company next Monday.” Aurora calculated the time.
“That sounds good. My granddaughter is certainly the best. By the way, Aurora, you haven’t been watching the news lately, have you?” He suddenly changed the subject, his expression turning serious.
“What is it, Grandfather? Which news are you referring to?” Aurora noticed his hesitance.
“Just some entertainment gossip,” he hinted.
Realizing what he might be hinting at, Aurora responded nonchalantly, “Grandfather, are you asking if I know about Hayden and Susan’s engagement?”
Everyone thought Aurora had left due to a romantic affair. Little did they know that, although that relationship had deeply hurt her, she wouldn’t leave because of Hayden.
“Grandfather, don’t worry. That’s all in the past, and I don’t mind at all. In fact, I plan to attend their engagement party and personally deliver my blessings,” Aurora said, smiling faintly.
“Do you really have no more feelings?” Oswaldo was somewhat incredulous.
“What? Do I need to be dramatic for you to believe me, Grandfather?” Aurora teased with a wink.
“For a scoundrel, it’s not worth my sweetheart’s distress. It’s best you’ve moved on. What kind of man can’t the Montgomery family heiress marry?” Oswaldo snorted with a mix of relief and anger.
Years ago, he had turned a blind eye to Aurora’s relationship with Hayden, initially dismissing it as childish play, only to realize it was true love. He wasn’t a conservative man. He would have accepted her happiness with Hayden, but Hayden had proven himself unworthy, which had angered him for a long time.