Chapter 345

Ethan said with a wronged expression, "She chased me first."

Cynthia recalled introducing Jonathan to the Yates family. Jonathan had brought gifts; Yasmine received an autographed photo of Ethan. Yasmine was a huge fan. Later, Jonathan even gave Yasmine Ethan's phone number.

Cynthia thought, Could they have gotten together that way? Yasmine is outgoing, lively, and very social. She likes handsome guys and is fearless. It's not surprising she would pursue Ethan.

Cynthia asked, "What do you need my help with?"

Ethan explained, "Yasmine hasn't spoken to me. She won't answer my calls, meet me, or she's blocked me on WhatsApp."

"Did you two fight?" Cynthia asked.

"No, we were fine until a few days ago. Then, she stopped talking to me," Ethan replied. He continued, "I've been busy on set. She's not answering, and I can't find her. Cynthia, you're close to her. She always talks about you, saying you're like a sister. Please help me figure out what I did wrong?"

Ethan looked incredibly pitiful, his eyes wide and teary.

Cynthia relented. "Okay, I'll help."

Ethan immediately wiped his tears. "Thank you, Cynthia. Thank you so much."

Cynthia was astonished. She planned to tell Jonathan, but he was nowhere to be seen. Instead, she saw Preston.

Preston wore a white suit; his usually blonde hair was dyed black, dramatically changing his appearance. He transformed from a cheerful, sunny character to a mature, elegant prince.

He was looking at Cynthia, a tall champagne tower beside him. Their eyes met, but Preston quickly looked away. As Cynthia approached, he turned, accidentally knocking over the champagne tower. The glasses shattered, champagne spilling onto the carpet.

Cynthia watched Preston leave. His avoidance was clear. She sighed, remembering the radiant boy he once was. That Preston, she feared, was gone, lost to the harsh realities of the world.

The annual party began, hosted by Hana and Roger. Cynthia stood in the crowd when Jonathan silently appeared beside her.

After the opening remarks, Roger announced, "Now let's welcome Mr. Clifford Bennett, chairman of the Bennett Group, to the stage for his speech."

(Time stamp removed as it's irrelevant to the narrative)

Chapter 345

Clifford's attendance confirmed rumors of a successor announcement. He walked confidently to the center of the stage, casually dressed in a familiar suit. Despite being over seventy, he was energetic, standing tall with a commanding presence.

The crowd was silent. Clifford spoke into the microphone: "Today, I announce three things. First, Cynthia and Nina each hold five percent of the company's shares. Secondly, Cynthia is the Bennett family's daughter-in-law. No one is allowed to bully her! Thirdly, I'm retiring. A shareholder meeting will be held tomorrow to decide the successor. The eight major shareholders will vote openly, and the result will be announced to the media immediately."

Clifford handed the microphone to Roger and left.

Roger announced, "Thank you to Mr. Clifford Bennett. The Bennett Group's annual gala officially begins!"

The crowd buzzed, discussing Clifford's announcements. Speculation arose about Nina's shares, Clifford's favoritism towards Cynthia, and the likely succession of Whitney Bennett. Some suggested Jonathan would remain a figurehead.

Cynthia felt disheartened; it seemed Clifford had already chosen his successor, the shareholder meeting merely a formality. Jonathan confirmed the board was filled with Whitney's allies. Doesn't that mean Jonathan has no chance? she thought.

On stage, Roger announced, "Now, please welcome Mr. Jonathan Bennett and his wife, Cynthia, to open the dance floor."

Lost in thought, Cynthia was startled by Jonathan's voice. She saw him inviting her to dance.

The crowd parted, creating a dance floor. Lights illuminated them. With a slight smile, Cynthia put aside her worries, took Jonathan's hand, and confidently joined him on the dance floor.