Chapter 133

Frederick smirked slightly. "Didn't you know?"

"Know what?"

"This isn't just an ordinary birthday party. It's a charity birthday party."

"What do you mean?"

"All the gifts are auctioned off, and the money goes to charity."

I was stunned. "So, that's what a charity birthday party is..."

Frederick gave me a strange look. "She does this every year. Don't you remember?"

Crap...

I honestly didn't remember, but I played it off. "I just didn't expect her to still be doing it this year." I touched my nose, trying to hide my awkwardness.

Frederick continued, "She wants everyone to see how much Jonathan values her, but doesn't want to seem like she's flaunting it. So, she accepts gifts, donates them in her name, and gains a reputation for kindness and generosity."

So, that was it...

"No wonder it's such a big deal. But do people really willingly bring gifts?"

"You don't get it."

He explained, "It's not just about the gifts. Everyone understands Jonathan's connection to the Zimmers. Gaining their favor increases the likelihood of Jonathan seeing them as potential business partners. It's a smart move for everyone involved."

So, there was a strategy behind it all...

It was eye-opening, to say the least.

He gave me a sideways glance. "What are you planning to give?"

"Me? Do I have to give something too?" I was surprised.

Emotionally or logically, I didn't see why I should give a gift.

He said nothing, and I watched as people presented their carefully prepared gifts. I felt uneasy. My only reason for coming was to make some business connections.

But now, it felt inappropriate not to give a gift. Instinctively, I glanced at Jonathan. He remained calm and indifferent.

Just by being there, he commanded everyone's attention. People orbited him, analyzing his every move, desperate to please him and terrified of upsetting him. He sat as if accepting tributes.

Chapter 133 2/2

As I looked at him, he met my gaze. I hesitated, tempted to look away, but remembered what happened earlier and remained still.

He quickly looked away, then stood and left.

I stared at his back, pressed my lips together, and followed. Alicia was surrounded by admirers, basking in their compliments. No one noticed us leaving.

The hallway was quiet and cool.

I saw Jonathan walking slowly toward the fountain, where he stopped. I planned to wait before approaching, but didn't expect him to notice me.

His voice was calm and cool. "How long are you planning to keep following me?"

I froze, then walked up behind him. "Why didn't you tell me this was a charity birthday party? I didn't bring a gift."

He turned, expressionless. "I told you to come with me. Why didn't you listen?"

He didn't answer my question. Instead, he asked another.

I didn't know how to respond. Should I tell him I just didn't want to come?

His eyes seemed to pierce me. Seeing my silence, his expression grew colder. "Did you come with Frederick?"

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