Chapter 121

“I understand, Mom. I have to marry into the Parker family! I need to outshine Yvonne.” The panic that had been etched on Joanna’s face vanished. Her heart resolved, and she nodded.

“Good girl,” Sophia nodded in relief. After a brief silence, she asked, “How’s your piano practice going lately?”

“It’s alright,” Joanna replied. To win Hayden’s favor, she’d practiced diligently. Though not a master, she was fluent in two pieces.

“Once you get the chance, go up and perform. I suspect Hayden’s recent change in attitude is related to the piano. Didn’t you say he always wanted you to play?” Sophia, ever sharp, identified the key. Men were straightforward; she sensed Hayden’s obsession with verifying Joanna's skill.

Unfortunately, Sophia only knew part of the story; further intervention would only hasten Joanna’s exposure.

Joanna hesitated. “But Mom, I’m not a professional pianist. What if I make a mistake?”

“You won’t,” Sophia reassured, patting her daughter’s hand. “Don’t worry. I’ve arranged for an international piano master to accompany you. No one will notice a thing!”

Joanna relaxed, the weight lifting from her chest. “That’s wonderful! Mom, you’ve really thought of everything.”

“Alright, go on out there,” Sophia said confidently. She was certain of her plan, even having reporters waiting outside, ready at her command. She envisioned the scene unfolding after becoming Hayden’s mother-in-law—who would dare look down on her then? The entire Jackson family would be in her grasp.

As Joanna left, Yosef arrived. “Hey, honey! What are you doing here? I’ve been looking for you. Are you tired? Want to rest?” His eyes were fixed on Sophia’s belly. He worried about her and the baby. This child had given him complete control over Sophia.

“You’re so annoying. Why are you following me? I just want some fresh air,” Sophia touched her belly impatiently. “I want some champagne.”

“Huh? We can’t have that now. How about I get you some juice?” He tried to please her, forgetting what dignity meant, serving her like a queen. “That’s more like it,” Sophia rolled her eyes.

Yosef, feeling pardoned, helped her to the side.

From afar, I watched their closeness and felt tears welling. If only Mom were still here… would things be different?

Hayden noticed my distress. “No wonder you’re in such a rush to sell the Jackson Group.”

I frowned. Why did he have to bring up what I wanted to avoid?

“Yeah, I’m really an unfilial daughter, eager to sell off family assets,” I laughed bitterly. I never thought I’d consider such a thing, but now… I handled it with ease.

“You don’t have to do this, Yvonne,” Hayden’s voice held a hint of sympathy.