Chapter 19

When Jonathan saw Cynthia produce the card, a wave of doubt washed over him. "How did she even get that card? The Jones and Yates families are certainly never in a position to possess one."

The Royal Golf Field stretched elegantly across the landscape, nestled between hills and water, offering breathtaking views. The wealthy young people around Jonathan were already grabbing their clubs, eager to begin playing.

Jonathan, however, remained seated in the lounge, where a waiter brought him a sandwich and some fancy desserts. He was accustomed to having breakfast there in peace.

Nearby, Lilian watched him, seemingly from another world. Dressed head-to-toe in black casual wear, Jonathan was strikingly handsome. His long fingers casually picked up a sandwich.

His eating style was captivating—a blend of sophistication and lazy charm. He exuded an aura similar to Cynthia's—an effortless confidence born of privilege.

Lilian took a deep breath and approached him. "Mr. Bennett, may I sit here?"

Jonathan glanced up at Lilian. "This is a public lounge, Mrs. Yates. Please, feel free," he replied politely, but distantly.

Lilian sat down. "Mr. Bennett, I actually came to see you today."

"Do you need something from me?" Jonathan remained nonchalant.

Lilian gathered her courage. "I'm Lilian Sheppard, a reporter from Roncrity News Network. We'd like to arrange an exclusive interview with you about the Paradise Resort project."

Jonathan didn't lift his gaze. "I'm not interested."

"Mr. Bennett, the Paradise Resort project is launching soon, and you need publicity to attract investments. I know you're the acknowledged heir of the Bennett family, but your two sisters hold significant positions within the company and have major disagreements with you. It seems you really need a chance to show Mr. Jackson Bennett what you can do. So you've chosen the project and waited here for three years, right? Clearly, this project is very important to you," Lilian said pointedly.

Jonathan turned to give her a cool glance. "You seem to know quite a bit about my family's affairs."

Under his intense stare, Lilian felt anxious, but pressed on. "Roncrity News Network is the most authoritative traditional media outlet here. We're willing to cooperate with you. Whenever you need media support, Mr. Bennett, we can be there for you. This is a win-win opportunity."

Jonathan was silent for a moment, considering her proposal.

Just then, a commotion erupted nearby.

Curious, Lilian turned to see Cynthia surrounded by a group of wealthy young men. She was skillfully swinging a golf club, her elegance and perfect strokes captivating everyone. Lilian felt a pang of jealousy, but quickly dismissed it.

Just as she was about to speak, Jonathan stood and strode toward the group. He heard Tommy's enthusiastic voice: "Wow, Ms. Jones, are you a professional athlete? I'd love to learn from you!"

Cynthia flashed a charming smile. "You're flattering me. I'm just an amateur enjoying my hobby."

"What are you doing?" Jonathan interrupted, his brow furrowing in irritation at Tommy's proximity to Cynthia.

Tommy leaned on his golf club. "It seems we've met our match, Jonathan. Ms. Jones's skills put us all to shame. I think only you stand a chance against her."

Laughter erupted. Someone suggested a match between Jonathan and Cynthia.

This was exactly what Cynthia had been waiting for. She turned to Jonathan with a bright smile. "Mr. Bennett, will you play me?"

Cynthia looked stunning, different from usual. Dressed in sporty casual attire, her tall, perfect figure was hard to miss. With minimal makeup, her natural beauty radiated sophistication. Her hair was pulled back in a sleek ponytail, and her radiant skin made the young men practically drool.

Before Jonathan could respond, Cynthia teasingly added, "You're not scared, are you?"

Someone interjected, "Ms. Jones, you don't know Mr. Bennett. If he's ranked second in Betrico, no one dares challenge him."

Cynthia chuckled softly. "Well, Betrico connections don't hold much weight here in Roncrity."

Her implication was clear—it wasn't that Jonathan was unbeatable; others were simply intimidated. The group exchanged glances, impressed by her boldness.

Jonathan replied calmly, "How do you want to compete?"

Cynthia gestured to the open area. "Let's aim for that par-4 hole."

Someone mentioned Cynthia's recent impressive birdie.

Jonathan, unfazed, told his caddy to get his clubs.

Cynthia continued, "Since this is a competition, how about a wager?"

"What do you want?" Jonathan asked, raising an eyebrow.

Without hesitation, Cynthia replied, "If I win, I want your first exclusive interview."

The crowd understood—her challenge was strategic. But they knew she was playing with fire. Though her skill was impressive—a par-4 in three strokes was beyond amateur—little did she know Jonathan was no ordinary player.

The onlookers, including Lilian, watched eagerly.

"Beat me first," Jonathan said, a smirk playing on his lips.

Everything was set. Cynthia stepped up. "You go first, Mr. Bennett."

Jonathan didn't hesitate. He teed off, swinging gracefully. Cheers erupted as he drove the ball onto the green.

The crowd followed as Jonathan switched to his putter, effortlessly sinking the ball. Excited applause filled the air. "What an incredible eagle! Two strokes on a par-4—great job, Mr. Bennett!"

All eyes then turned to Cynthia, some with sympathy.

(Continues)