Chapter 829

Montgomery frowned deeply, his gaze settling on Evelyn.

"Miss Ross..."

"Chloe is a child of the Valentine family. The Valentines will take good care of her." Evelyn paused, her voice clear. "Moreover, Chloe's surname is Sterling."

"Sterling?" Montgomery's pupils contracted slightly.

"Yes. Her mother was my sister, Grace Sterling." Evelyn observed the subtle shifts in his expression.

Montgomery was aware of the Sterling Family's existence. He had sensed it from the clashes between the Clownfish and the Lion. His current reaction confirmed it.

Montgomery stared blankly at Evelyn, then looked at Chloe.

"That Sterling? The Sterling Family's Sterling?"

Evelyn lowered her eyes. "Yes."

Montgomery's breathing quickened.

The Sterling Family.

That ancient and mysterious clan, existing for over a millennium. They had always maintained a low profile, only beginning to make moves in various countries in recent years.

No one knew the full extent of the Sterling Family's holdings.

Perhaps the building you lived in was constructed by a company under their umbrella.

Montgomery had once attempted to estimate. The combined industries of the Clownfish and Joanna Sterling accounted for half of their nation's tax revenue. The Clownfish held forty-nine percent. Joanna held one.

That was why Montgomery had feigned ignorance when Joanna sought his help.

The Clownfish was too powerful.

How could he possibly offend the forty-nine percent for Joanna's mere one?

A family like this, where even those they casually sent out were so formidable.

Would Chloe still go with him to become the next monarch of Aldoria?

It seemed... the Sterling Family was more powerful, more affluent than Aldoria itself.

All of Montgomery's sense of superiority vanished in an instant. His entire demeanor became humble.

"Then... I'll trouble the Valentine family to look after Chloe. Once the situation in Aldoria stabilizes, I will visit her again."

Evelyn nodded. "Chloe will grow up freely in the Valentine household. When she turns eighteen, I will tell her everything. Whatever choice she makes then, I hope King Montgomery will respect it."

"Of course." Montgomery smiled, gently stroking Chloe's hair. "She is my daughter. More than trapping her on a throne, I wish for her to have freedom."

As he said this, his eyes softened, filled with a father's tenderness.

Evelyn smiled slightly.

Montgomery then stated that Aldoria would henceforth be Evelyn's strongest backing in her competition for the Sterling Family heir position. The group shared a pleasant dinner.

When it was time for Montgomery to leave, he was reluctant. Finally, he steeled himself and asked, "Does the Valentine residence have any guest rooms available?"

Evelyn was momentarily taken aback.

Mr. Valentine stepped forward. "Your status makes staying here inconvenient. I will take Chloe to stay with you for a few days."

Montgomery's time in the country was short, part of an official visit. He wanted to spend more time with Chloe, but his sensitive position meant staying at the Valentine home would make them a target. The Truman family would certainly send personnel for protection. The Valentine household's current situation was special, with so many Sterling Family members present. Having outsiders stationed there would be inconvenient.

Mr. Valentine taking Chloe to stay with Montgomery was the optimal solution. It ensured Chloe's safety, allowed Montgomery time with her, and avoided complications.

Montgomery readily agreed.

Mr. Valentine packed a few clothes, gathered several Sterlingnies, and collected Chloe's toys and belongings. The entourage then followed Montgomery out.

After the group departed, Joanna, Natalie, and Elian gathered around Evelyn.

Joanna exclaimed in awe, "You're incredible! Now Montgomery is firmly tied to us!"

Natalie cracked a sunflower seed. "Tell us, when did you figure this out? You kept us in the dark!"

Evelyn replied calmly, "I only just learned myself."

The group laughed.

Evelyn looked at the three of them and suddenly asked, "The Sterling Family's Open Day is approaching. Do you want to go back and see?"

They fell silent.

After a long moment, Joanna spoke. "I said if you handled Montgomery for me, I'd side with you. I'll go back with you."

Natalie chimed in, "Me too."

Elian remained silent for a long time. "I won't be going."