Chapter 194

Cynthia questioned Whitney on Jonathan's behalf, recalling his pain and despair. She understood his desperation at being betrayed by his trusted family, especially considering Whitney's attempt on his life. This torment was far worse for him than it would have been for her.

Whitney's expression shifted. "He told you all that?" she laughed. "You're really special to him."

Cynthia, calmer now than during her earlier impulsive actions, reiterated her reluctance to involve herself in family feuds.

Whitney's smile became hysterical, her elegance crumbling. "What do you know? My biggest regret is that moment of kindness when he was ten. He's the devil's son, an embodiment of sin, a curse on our family. You wouldn't understand. Only his death will cleanse this world," she shouted.

Cynthia saw a devil in glamorous clothing. Whitney's words were chilling, hinting at something far deeper than a simple inheritance dispute.

"Ms. Bennett, he is your blood brother," Cynthia appealed to her conscience. But the phrase only enraged Whitney further.

Eyes bloodshot, face contorted, Whitney grabbed Cynthia's neck. "I'm not related to him! He's a devil, and I'll never acknowledge him."

Whitney's grip tightened, making it hard for Cynthia to breathe. While Cynthia could easily overpower her, the theater was full of Whitney's people, including a sniper on the second floor aiming at her. Retaliation would be suicidal.

Eventually, Whitney released Cynthia, her emotions receding. She composed herself, fixing her hair and makeup, while Cynthia coughed violently, leaning against a seat. Noticing Cynthia's distress, Whitney said, "Cynthia, kindness to others can be cruel to yourself. Do you think Abby made your horse go wild? No, it was Nina. You refuse to kill her, but she wouldn't hesitate to see you dead."

Cynthia's coughing stopped. "Nina drugged it?"

Meanwhile, after lunch, Nina returned to her room. A knock came at the door. It was Jonathan.

Nina was surprised. "Mr. Bennett?" Jonathan's expression was grave. "Nina, I need to talk to you." She invited him in.

After Jonathan entered, Nina quietly closed the door, leaving it slightly ajar. Seeing his serious demeanor, she tried to reassure him, "Mr. Bennett, are you worried about Whitney? I don't think we need to worry. This is a live show; she wouldn't risk revealing her wrongdoing to the media."

Nina, initially frightened by Whitney, felt safer now that Jonathan was with her and because of the live broadcast.

But Jonathan remained serious. Nina sensed something was wrong. "Mr. Bennett, is there another reason you're here?" she asked cautiously.

Jonathan went straight to the point. "Why are you hurting yourself and others?"

Nina's expression froze. She feigned ignorance. "Mr. Bennett, what are you talking about?"

"Nina, I'm giving you another chance. Be honest, or regret it," Jonathan said, his gaze sharp and cold—an expression Nina had never seen before. Her heart pounded; she felt exposed and speechless.

Jonathan turned to leave. Just as he reached the door, Nina hugged him. "Mr. Bennett, I was wrong. Please forgive me."

Jonathan pushed her away. "Tell me what happened."

"The butler gave me candy for the horses. He said it would excite them. I could give it to a horse I disliked," Nina explained.

Jonathan's voice was cold and disappointed. "So you gave it to Cynthia's horse? To harm her?"

"No, Mr. Bennett," Nina replied. "I was confused. I didn't know if you cared more for me or her. I gave it to my horse too. I didn't want to harm her. I thought it would only make them a little hyper, not crazy. I feel like I was set up by Whitney." Jonathan remained unmoved. Nina tugged at his sleeve.