Chapter 144

Diane and her family now own three cars—better than Stanley’s! This meant they were wealthier than him.

“Which family’s rich kid is this? Edward? He said if Diane married him, he’d give Felicia a million-dollar dowry. I didn’t know he’d spend even more on cars for them!” George mused.

Maryam shook her head. “No, I don’t know him either. Maybe he’s not upper-class, just a businessman’s son. Still, that’s a lot of money!”

“You don’t know him? Then he’s not one of the rich kids who pursued her before. Wow, I’m shocked. Diane insisted on being with Severine just days ago. She changed so fast!” Stanley sneered.

“Haha, she’s a good actress. Remember how she pretended to be pure and loyal? I guess she’s succumbed to money!”

“I agree. She’s phony!” Maryam said.

Catherine’s face darkened. She reprimanded, “Maryam, what nonsense is this? She’s your sister, and we’re a family. How can you say such things?” Maryam realized she’d gone too far. “Grandmother, remember how she said she’d only return if you apologized? She’s been fighting you because of Severine, disgracing our family. Now Severine is back, and she changes in days. She’s too…”

Stanley scoffed. “I don’t find it strange. She probably realized Severine is all looks after spending two days with him. That’s why she found another man. Maybe she faced reality.”

Catherine remained silent, then said to Stanley, “Weren’t you going to secure the Longhorns’ heiress? It’s been two days. What’s the progress?”

Stanley hung his head, embarrassed. He stammered, “Grandmother, I—I haven’t succeeded. She’s difficult. I tried to convince her to share the project, but she refused. I bought flowers and designer bags, but she ignored me. I even offered money—a bribe—and she still wouldn’t budge!”

Catherine’s rage flared. She scolded, “Are you an idiot? Do you think Charmaine needs your money, flowers, or designer bags? She’s a Longhorns heiress! Does she need your designer bags?”

Her frustration mounted. “Do you really think your tactics will work on Charmaine? She probably finds you annoying and disgusting!”

Maryam considered this. “We shouldn’t let Diane be with that rich kid.”

“Why?” Catherine asked curiously.

“Think about it. If Stanley can’t convince Miss Charmaine, our only chance is Severine speaking to Mr. Henry. If Diane is with another man, will Severine still help? No!” Maryam replied.

She continued, “We must stop Diane from being with that rich kid. Tell them to return the cars. At least, wait until we secure our spot in the Liberty City project!”

Catherine didn’t immediately respond. After thinking, she said, “Let’s go see who’s spending so much money on her!”