Sheryl chuckled, "Skyler is such a Peter Pan, a rare breed indeed. Most folks have got that drive, you know?"
Ambition, that's what that so-called drive was.
Aurelia said, "The best thing for brothers is to stick to their knitting. The Stirling family has this rule that the eldest legitimate son takes the reins, just to dodge any brotherly brawls that could gut the family harmony. One person helms the family affairs, while the others use the family influence to carve out their careers, be it in the military, politics, or medicine... It consolidates the family status and that's how we stay on top of the game."
Sheryl smiled. To her, Aurelia's choice to reconcile with Leopold instead of marrying Arnold was clear-cut. Leopold was the inheritor of the Stirling family, and her son was the cherished firstborn heir.
The Stirling family was fine with having a wife and a few mistresses. There were plenty of heirs, but few firstborns. For years, Chad had been the only firstborn, spoiled rotten, which was why he turned out so arrogant and libertine.
Kane was the second firstborn following Chad, so he was the toast of the Stirling family. Aurelia getting back with Leopold was a smart choice, securing the unshakable status of Kane.
In Sheryl’s mind, Aurelia might've seemed like Miss Innocence, but she was sly as a fox, a real strategist. Otherwise, she wouldn't have both Arnold and Leopold eating out of her hand.
But for now, with no clash of interests, Aurelia was all respect for Sheryl, so they got along just fine.
"You planning on having more kids with Leopold?" Sheryl asked.
Aurelia's smile was soft as she replied, "I do want a daughter."
Sheryl sighed. She had wanted a son but got two daughters instead. And here was Aurelia, with her two sons, pining for a daughter.
Beverley giggled and teased, "Sheryl and Fredric know all about having daughters. You should ask them for tips."
It was an offhand remark, but it struck a nerve.
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