Sophia Ashcroft was lost in thought.

She had hidden her true identity for many years.

She never revealed it to Isabella Ashcroft.

Now it was Evelyn Ross's turn.

The Vance family was a top-tier elite family.

The matriarch needed a powerful background for support.

Sophia lowered her gaze.

Her past with Mr. Valentine was a matter of the previous generation.

Evelyn had the right to know who her biological father was.

Mr. Valentine had remained unmarried to this day.

If he knew he had a daughter, he would protect her with all his might.

With the Valentine family as her backing.

Evelyn's path within the Vance family would be much smoother.

A bitter smile touched Sophia's lips.

Elite marriages ultimately emphasized matching social status.

Marcus Valentine raised an eyebrow. "Your mother agrees. Shall we set a meeting time?"

Evelyn looked at Sophia. "Mom, you're not truly willing in your heart."

Sophia was taken aback.

Evelyn's tone was firm. "If you won't see him, then neither will I."

Mother and daughter exchanged a smile.

Years of understanding needed no further words.

Marcus stomped his foot in frustration. "You agreed! Why go back on your word? Mrs. Ashcroft, do you know how difficult things are for her in the Vance family?"

He dragged a chair over and sat down.

"The illegitimate daughter from the main branch has connected with the Truman family."

"If the marriage alliance succeeds, the main branch will overpower Alexander Vance."

"The position of Vance Group CEO might be lost."

Evelyn chuckled softly. "Mom, don't believe him. Alexander has his own plans."

That man's capabilities far exceeded what was visible.

Marcus pursed his lips. "You certainly have confidence in him."

"Of course. My mom likes him too."

Marcus's eyes shifted craftily. "What about the clinical trial slot at the New York research institute? Mrs. Eleanor Vance needs it, right? The Valentine family can secure a slot."

Evelyn frowned.

She finally understood why the slot required her personal selection.

The local office could resist monetary temptation.

But they couldn't withstand pressure from power.

Under pressure from a family like the Valentines.

How could they not compromise?

Marcus looked smug. "The main branch's illegitimate daughter used the Truman family's connections to get the slot. Do you think she's truly filial? Just wait. Once the medication is administered, she'll make exorbitant demands. If Alexander doesn't transfer shares, this won't end. The main branch only needs five percent more shares to convene a board meeting and oust him."

Marcus raised an eyebrow. "Come meet my uncle. With the Valentine family's involvement, these won't be problems."

Evelyn rubbed her chin. "The Valentine family is that powerful?"

"One of the five great elite families, of course we are!"

Marcus puffed out his chest. "Uncle wants to recognize you as his goddaughter. With the Valentine family's backing, you can do whatever you want in San Francisco."

Evelyn smiled. "Well, thank you for that."

Marcus's face lit up with joy.

The girl added another sentence. "But it's not necessary. Having my mom is enough."

Marcus was stunned.

His face instantly darkened. "Evelyn Ross, don't be ungrateful when given face! So many people want to curry favor with Uncle. This is the first time he's actively offered a favor!"

Evelyn sincerely suggested. "Then don't let him suffer any grievances."

Marcus was so angry he jumped up.

"You're an ungrateful person!"

Evelyn spread her hands. "My mom gave birth to me. Nothing to be done."

Marcus's eyes widened.

He looked at Evelyn, then at Sophia.

Suddenly, he understood. "Calling her 'Mom' over and over. So you're a momma's girl!"

Evelyn's eyes lit up.

This title made her feel warm and secure.

She smiled sweetly.

Marcus was speechless. "Are you that starved for affection?"

The girl's voice was cool yet cheerful. "Do you have anything else, Mr. Valentine? My mom needs to rest."

Marcus was ushered out of the hospital room.

Through the door crack, he saw the girl become docile and obedient.

"Mom, would you like some water?"

"Mom, it's time for your medicine..."

"Mom..."

A series of "Moms" made Marcus think of his five-year-old nephew.

His cousin's wife got a headache from the noise every day.

But Mrs. Ashcroft always smiled gently.

Without the slightest annoyance.

Marcus returned to the hotel dejectedly.

He rushed into Mr. Valentine's room to complain about Evelyn's ingratitude.

"Uncle, she's not even your daughter. Why indulge her?"

Mr. Valentine smiled. "This temperament is so like Ms. Nan."

Marcus's heart tightened.

Sure enough, he heard his uncle say, "If she won't come, then I have no choice but to go see her."

Marcus was stunned. "Where will you find her?"

Mr. Valentine pondered for a moment. "Can't go to the Valentine residence. The Vance residence should be fine. I heard the old lady is ill. I'll pay a visit tomorrow."

Marcus's eyes widened.