Chapter 109

Shirley's expression clouded. "Cynthia, you've gone too far," she said.

Cynthia retorted, "I don't think I have. You said it yourself."

Shirley's dark expression intensified. She hadn't expected Cynthia to know the Queen Jewelry designer so well—not just the designer, but the person Cynthia had phoned earlier, who was likely even more powerful. However, Shirley wouldn't kneel to Cynthia in front of so many people. She scoffed. "I'm just kidding," she said. "Don't tell me you've taken it to heart."

Cynthia remained silent, only smiling.

Meanwhile, Justin rose and poured Cynthia a glass of juice. "Cynthia," he asked, "you have connections at Queen Jewelry. Why didn't you tell me?"

Cynthia said nothing and didn't touch the juice. Justin felt slightly embarrassed but returned to his seat, muttering, "Right. You used to work in the design industry and are well-known in this circle. Given your numerous awards, it's no surprise you know remarkable people."

Cynthia knew what Justin was going to say. She replied indifferently, "Mr. Jones, I've left the design circle." Her address established a clear boundary.

Justin appeared irritated but maintained a smile. "Cynthia, I know you're still mad at me. I was wrong. I apologize. Will you forgive me?"

Cynthia's tone was calm, devoid of emotion. "Forgive you? So you can persuade me to sign up for the Pillere competition on behalf of Velorix and the company, right?"

Cynthia's blunt exposure of his intentions was like a ripped fig leaf. His smile froze. Despite his anger, he tried to maintain control. "Isn't it always like this in previous years?"

Cynthia remained silent.

Justin continued to coax. "Besides, the Jones family's company is also yours. You're my daughter and will eventually inherit a portion of the family business. Helping the family today benefits you as well."

This design competition was crucial to the company. The Jones family started by selling clothes, previously popular under the Velorix brand. However, since Cynthia quit designing for Velorix, its popularity and market share had declined year after year, falling to less than one-fifth of its peak. If this continued, Velorix would be eliminated from the market. Although Cynthia hadn't designed for the company in years, she had participated in competitions on its behalf annually, winning awards each time. This competition was an excellent opportunity for Velorix to rebound. But if Cynthia refused, it would worsen the brand's condition.

Cynthia smirked. That wasn't what Justin had said previously. He claimed she was still his daughter, but behind her back, he'd told Selena that Shirley would inherit all the company shares. Cynthia was merely a stepdaughter who stayed with them.

Initially, Cynthia preferred not to compete for family property; she thought his actions weren't so bad. However, she now realized he hadn't driven her out because he was interested in her value.

Cynthia used to fantasize about family devotion, finding reasons for their actions, deceiving herself. But after being disillusioned, she saw Justin for what he was: a cunning businessman whose familial affection was merely a calculated scheme.

"Fine," Cynthia asked casually, smiling. "Since you say I have a stake in the Jones family property, how many shares will you provide me?" Her tone, though casual, was undeniable.

Shirley immediately scolded, "Cynthia, you're shameless! Do you honestly think you're part of the Jones family because you didn't change your surname? I'm the family's only daughter and hold all the property and the business. You can't take a penny!"

Her demeanor was forceful, but Justin silenced her.

When Justin discovered Cynthia wasn't his biological daughter, he planned to hand the Jones family business over to Shirley. However, three years later, he realized Shirley lacked talent and virtue. If Jones Group were handed to her, it would undoubtedly go bankrupt within three years. Therefore, he had alternative plans. He had raised Cynthia, and though not his biological daughter, she valued loyalty, was talented, and Jones Group desperately needed her.

"How about this?" Justin said. "I'll give you five percent of the company's shares. If you agree to compete in Pillere for the company, I'll immediately transfer the shares to your name." Looking like a loving father, he added, "Cynthia, we raised you. There's no difference between you and Shirley. We'll be fair. Let's forget the past, okay?"

Before Cynthia could speak, Pamela returned from a phone call. Pulling up a chair, she said nonchalantly, "Five percent of the shares? I remember when Shirley returned, you transferred 20 percent to her. Why is there only five percent left for Cynthia? Is that what you consider fair?"

Pamela's sarcastic tone made everyone uncomfortable. Henry pulled her arm. "Stop talking."

She was there at Justin's request to help rebuild his relationship with Cynthia, yet her words sowed discord. Justin's expression darkened. Cynthia remained unaffected, as if watching a show. "I don't want the shares, and I won't go to Pillere," she said indifferently.

Justin was anxious. He gritted his teeth. "How about you and Shirley each own 20 percent? If you win the prize for the company, you'll also be appointed design department director."

Cynthia agreed. "Deal."

Shirley was taken aback. "Dad, how can this be? She isn't your daughter! Do you really want to transfer half of our family's property to her? She was only threatening you. She can't possibly believe the Jones family would go bankrupt without her, right?"