Love beyond the mask (Whitney) novel Chapter 408

Grandma Anderson was particularly fond of Ludwik, her eldest grandson. Raising her hand first, she declared, "I agree with Jason's decision."

The various branches of the family waited with bated breath, none wanting to cross the influential Jarvis and Riley factions.

Riley scoffed, "Big brother, the Lippert Corporation is the top conglomerate in Harmonia Country. What makes Ludwik think he can take over? Does he even have the backing of a powerful family?"

"Yeah, Riley's in-laws are the Nelsons, the second most influential family in Harmonia Country," someone chimed in.

"To take over the corporation, you need substantial support," Jarvis added, seemingly speaking fairly.

Ludwik lifted his eyelids slightly and challenged, "Didn't Jarvis just say he would support me with all his might? How about starting with those profitable companies under you?"

Jason looked at Ludwik, noting the sharpness in his first statement since entering the room, cutting to the heart of the matter.

Thea's expression stiffened.

Jarvis's smile cooled, but he quickly recovered, "Sure, but it's not just up to me. Ludwik will need to get the approval of the other executives. If they agree, he'll have my full support."

Ludwik remained silent, clearly seeing through the power play at hand.

Jason frowned but remained noncommittal.

Seeing the situation, Riley stood up first, smiling thinly at Jason, "Ludwik needs a strong backer if he wants to take control. He's new here and unfamiliar with the executives. How can he win their hearts? Right, big brother? It seems we can't make this decision today."

As he rose, the others followed suit.

Jason's gaze turned icy, "The Lippert Corporation is mine to command. I've appointed Ludwik, and he will become the president!"

"We'll see if he can hold his position," Riley said meaningfully, glancing at Jarvis before leaving with a smile.

The Lippert family dispersed.

Jason, looking significantly wearier, escorted Grandma Anderson back to her quarters, "Ludwik, wait for me in the study."

Passing by Ludwik, Grandma Anderson encouraged him, "You showed no fear, my boy. You're remarkable, Ludwik. Keep it up!"

Ludwik managed a slightly warmer smile, "Take care, Grandma."

Jarvis watched with a cold gaze.

After Jason left, Ludwik found a sofa to sit on.

Jarvis approached slowly, cigarette in hand, "Little brother, about that misunderstanding when your son was kidnapped… It was my people acting without orders, not me. And as for Elaine seducing me and making you look foolish at your wedding, let's forget about it, eh?"

Ludwik flicked away some ash, his gaze icy, "Just like you're not holding a grudge for the counterfeit chip scandal that nearly bankrupted Jar Rail Corporation, right?"

Jarvis's grip tightened around his cigarette, his eyes darkening with malice.

He forced a smile, "Let's be cordial, Ludwik. You've got a long way to go in the Lippert family."

"Better worry about yourself," Ludwik replied, tone even, as he extinguished his cigarette.

Jarvis left, seeing Ludwik as a thorn in his side, and returned to Thea's room.

Thea was scolding Heidi, "You're married with kids, yet still so thoughtless. We were trying to undermine Ludwik to stir Riley's discontent. Now, you've made things harder for your father!"

"I didn't know that was your plan," Heidi retorted, frustrated.

Jarvis intervened, "Let's not fight. Heidi was just worried about me."

His eyes grew cold, "Even with Ludwik back, taking control of the Lippert family won't be easy."

Thea reassured him, "With you in the corporation, the best deals will go to the Patrick family."