Chapter 279: Skylar’s Birthday (7)

Inside the library.

Zachary, his siblings, and their father sat together on the leather sofa.

Family gatherings like this often allowed them to discuss matters concerning the company, even when the occasion itself had nothing to do with business.

Although their father, Kennedy Sterling, was no longer actively involved in the company’s management, he remained the largest shareholder. Still, he had the authority to replace the current CEO if he believed it was necessary.

Everyone in the Sterling family understood that authority, especially William Sterling. He had never dared to openly challenge their father and had always been careful to follow whatever decision Kennedy made.

It was one of the reasons Zachary had never been eager to take the CEO position at Sterling Group because their father could fire them whenever he wanted.

However, now...

Zachary had always found it interesting to watch his father lecture William on the decisions William made at the company.

Fifteen minutes had already passed since their discussion began, and Zachary had barely said anything. He simply listened to the conversation and answered whenever someone asked him a question. He had no particular interest in getting involved unless it was necessary.

Still, his father’s next question immediately caught his attention.

"William, why did you appoint Riley CEO of Sterling Tech?"

Kennedy’s voice stayed even, but the disappointment in his eyes was difficult to miss.

William was surprised by the question, his expression tightening and falling silent. He glanced at his brothers, as if trying to see if any had questioned his decision too.

After finding nothing useful in their expressions, he finally turned his attention back to Kennedy.

"Father, I know I was wrong not to consult you beforehand, and I apologize for that," William said carefully. "But I hope you can trust my judgment this time."

He paused and took a slow breath before continuing.

"I didn’t choose Riley simply because he is my son. I chose him because I believe he is capable, and I believe he has the potential to lead Sterling Tech."

Kennedy remained silent for several seconds. His gaze stayed fixed on William, making him increasingly aware that his explanation had not completely satisfied him.

"We are talking about the CEO position, William, not a director or a manager," Kennedy finally said. "That position comes with considerable responsibility. Are you certain Riley is ready for it?"

"Yes," William answered without hesitation. "I guarantee that my son is capable of leading Sterling Tech."

His voice was confident, but Zachary, who had been quietly observing his older brother, noticed something that William probably wished he had hidden. For the briefest moment, doubt appeared in his eyes before he quickly covered it with confidence again.

Zachary said nothing and looked uninterested. But unbeknownst to anyone, he took note in his mind. Something he always does since he was a child.

"Will," Samuel Sterling said, breaking the silence between them. "I heard there is a major military tender coming up in a few months. Are you certain Riley can secure the project?"

Zachary’s attention sharpened at once. He had already heard about the project from Kevin, who had even warned him that the outcome could damage the relationship between Cresswell and Sterling.

Until now, Zachary didn’t pay much attention to the project, but Samuel’s question made him even more curious about how William intended to handle the situation.

William slowly turned toward Samuel. His expression remained controlled, but his displeasure was obvious. His sharp gaze made it clear that he did not appreciate the question, especially with their father sitting right there.

Still, William restrained himself. He clearly understood that losing his temper in front of Kennedy would only make the situation worse. Instead, he forced a confident smile and answered calmly.

"Of course. You don’t need to worry about that. Riley has capable people around him who can help him secure the project."

Zachary almost chuckled at those words, though he kept his expression neutral.

He could already imagine what would happen if Sterling Tech failed to secure the military project. Their father would undoubtedly be furious with William, especially after William had sounded so confident about Riley’s ability to handle it. And once that happened, Riley’s position as CEO of Sterling Tech would naturally be reconsidered.

The thought alone put Zachary in a good mood.

"Good, if you’re confident," Samuel said with a small nod. "It will certainly benefit the company if we can win the tender."

William gave him a brief smile before turning his attention back to Kennedy.

"Father, if the military project is what concerns you, please don’t worry about it. I’ll make sure Riley and his team receive whatever support they need to secure it."

Kennedy studied him for a moment before answering.

"I trust your judgment this time, Will. But if Riley fails, what will you do?"

The question was simple, but the warning behind it was unmistakable.

William’s expression stiffened slightly. He knew exactly what his father meant. If Riley failed after being appointed CEO, William would have to take responsibility for his decision.

"I understand, Father," William replied. "I’ll remember to be prepared for the worst possible outcome."

Kennedy nodded once, apparently satisfied with the answer.

The conversation continued after that, shifting toward other matters concerning the company.

They discussed several issues, but Zachary gradually stopped paying close attention. He had already heard enough to understand where things stood, and he preferred not to involve himself in their discussion unless someone asked for his opinion.

He remained seated quietly, listening from time to time while his father and brothers continued their conversation.

Not long afterward, a knock came from the door.

Everyone turned toward it as Arthur entered the library. He stood respectfully near the doorway before addressing them.

"Master, the birthday lunch is about to begin."

Zachary immediately stood from the sofa.

"Have all the guests arrived?" he asked.

"Yes, Master. Your friends are already in the hall with Madam Sienna and Skylar."

Zachary nodded. "All right. Thank you, Arthur."

He then turned toward his father and the others.

"Let’s wrap it up and move to the hall. Sienna and Skylar are waiting for us."