Chapter 227

Shirley was furious. Watching Cynthia on television, she gloated over Cynthia's perilous experiences, secretly wishing her continued absence. But Cynthia returned safe and sound, and, to everyone's surprise, became engaged to Jonathan. This infuriated Shirley. Suddenly, an idea struck her, and she went out.

Justin and Selena waited until 7 PM before a car pulled into the yard. Justin stood by the door, ready to greet Cynthia and Jonathan.

With a wide smile, Justin approached. "Cynthia, why are you and Jonathan back so late?"

Cynthia replied, "We'll leave soon."

Justin was displeased. "Jonathan doesn't visit often; we must entertain him." Turning to Jonathan, he added, "Jonathan, you must be hungry. Selena prepared dinner. Let's eat and chat."

Jonathan, in a good mood, put his arm around Cynthia's waist. "Since we're back, let's have dinner." Cynthia didn't object. Although she knew Justin was shrewd and self-serving, a businessman primarily interested in profit, she had lived in the house for twenty years and was now the company's largest shareholder. Completely severing ties was impossible. She simply hoped to maintain a distant relationship, managing her expectations to avoid disappointment.

They soon arrived in the dining room. The table was laden with delicious food, and Selena was still in the kitchen. Seeing them, she hurried over. "There's just one more pot of soup. We'll begin soon."

Justin said, "Jonathan, these homemade dishes may not be as fancy as your usual gourmet meals, but they're a heartfelt gesture from Selena and me."

Jonathan smiled at the array of dishes. "Thank you."

Cynthia subtly raised the corners of her lips. She recognized the dishes as the family chef's work, knowing Selena rarely cooked. She remained silent.

Justin beamed at Jonathan's thanks. "Selena, bring the Romance Conti. I've saved it for years. I want a good drink with Jonathan tonight." Selena retrieved the wine.

Jonathan sat down. "Are you sure you want to share such a fine wine with me?"

Justin replied, "I acquired this wine at an auction in Betrico six years ago. It's your first visit; I couldn't resist! Cynthia is my precious gem. I'd give away everything of the Jones family for her."

Cynthia found Justin's words ironic. Without Jonathan's wealth, Justin's behavior would undoubtedly differ.

Jonathan chuckled, pulling Cynthia closer. "Cynthia, your father said he'd use everything from the Jones family as your wedding gift." Justin's smile faltered.

Jonathan's gaze returned to Justin. "As Cynthia's fiancé, I must thank you for that."

Justin was stunned. He'd only hoped to cultivate a better relationship with Jonathan, not offer his entire estate as a wedding gift.

Facing Jonathan's intense stare, Justin felt guilty and coughed. He hadn't considered a wedding gift, only the benefits he could gain from the Bennett family. He knew the Bennetts, the wealthiest family in Hetrico, would throw a spectacular wedding.

Gritting his teeth, he said, "Don't worry, Cynthia is my beloved daughter. I'll prepare a generous gift, ensuring she marries into the Bennett family with style." He saw it as a beneficial alliance.

Selena arrived with the wine. Just as Justin was urging everyone to eat, he noticed Shirley's absence. He frowned. "Where's Shirley?"

Selena replied, "I was busy in the kitchen."

Justin was annoyed. "She's getting out of hand. We told her Cynthia was coming home. Why hasn't she come down?"

Selena stood. "I'll call her."

A voice called from the doorway, "Dad, Mom, I'm back."

Everyone turned as Shirley entered, wearing a stunning short black dress, perfect makeup, and black high heels.

Justin frowned. "Why are you dressed like that at home?"

Shirley explained, "Dad, I just returned from the Jenkins family's birthday party."

Justin knew she hadn't gone out, but exposing her would only embarrass him. He glared and said, "Cynthia and Jonathan are here. Greet them."

With elegance, Shirley approached. She glanced at Cynthia and said, "Cynthia, you've been gone a long time. I thought you'd forgotten us."

Cynthia replied indifferently, "You're so annoying."

Shirley's face darkened, but she quickly turned to Jonathan. "Jonathan, look at her. I was only joking."

Cynthia shuddered at Shirley's pouty tone.

Shirley tried to sit beside Jonathan, but he said bluntly, "Don't come near me. I'm a clean freak."

Shirley's face flushed. Even Justin thought she was acting inappropriately. "Go sit over there and stop making a scene."

Shirley seethed, forced to sit far from Jonathan. Only then did she understand his words, igniting her fury. He's a clean freak, so I can't sit beside him? Am I dirt? Why could Cynthia? She gritted her teeth, controlling her temper.