Chapter 42

Online, the Jones family's real and fake heiresses were the subject of intense speculation and numerous conflicting narratives. Initially, only a few family members knew about Cynthia and Shirley, but the secret had become common knowledge in Roncrity.

Shirley, most affected by the revelation, had finally secured her rightful inheritance, only to have her impoverished upbringing exposed. Her adoptive mother, Rachel, was a murderer, and her adoptive father, Dennis, a gambler. While many online showed sympathy, Shirley rejected it, believing her status as an heiress precluded such pity.

The situation was further complicated by rumors of Justin and Selena favoring Cynthia, the daughter they raised for twenty years, over their biological daughter, Shirley, who had lived a miserable life. Consequently, Roncrity's elite, celebrities, and media were invited to Shirley's upcoming birthday party, a grand display intended to establish Shirley's superior position within the family—requiring Cynthia's attendance.

"Mom, I really want to celebrate my birthday with you and Cynthia," Shirley said, clinging to Selena's arm.

Selena glared at Cynthia. "The online news has deeply affected Shirley and our family. Why did you tarnish Shirley's reputation? You're married; it doesn't affect you. Have you considered the impact on Shirley?"

Cynthia's thoughts raced. That's true. How could a wealthy upper-class man marry someone like Shirley, despite her being the true heiress? Mom must think I spread the news about Shirley and me. She understood Selena's perspective.

Cynthia remained silent. No matter what I say, Mom won't believe me. She'll think I'm lying. She offered a sad smile. "So?"

"You must come to Shirley's birthday party," Selena demanded. "I don't care how much you argue. You must act like sisters. It's for Shirley's future and the family's reputation. You owe Shirley and the Jones family this."

Cynthia was speechless.

Sensing the tension, Justin intervened. "Selena wants you there. Her words are harsh, but you know she's soft-hearted. You haven't celebrated your birthday with us in three years. Let's celebrate together this time."

Cynthia smiled. "Okay, I'll be there. I'll do anything to make Shirley happy."

Justin patted her shoulder. "Thank you, my darling daughter."

Shirley, noting Cynthia's smile, felt uneasy, but believed Selena's presence would keep Cynthia in check.

After Shirley and Selena left, Jonathan arrived. "Why are you sitting here alone?"

Cynthia's face lit up. "Because I'm thinking of you."

Jonathan, initially resentful over their recent estrangement and her lack of contact, found his anger melting away at the sight of her. He felt only bitterness and helplessness. I'm such a loser. Fine, I'll let her win, he thought. His expression softened, though he remained sarcastic. "Hmph. You didn't even look for me."

"You're such a busy man, Mr. Bennett. I didn't want to disturb you," Cynthia replied.

Jonathan knew she was making excuses but forgave her. He realized his proactive approach had saved their relationship. She's not even apologetic, he thought.

Cynthia offered him the menu. "Order whatever you like. This meal is my apology, Mr. Bennett."

"If apologies worked, we wouldn't need the police," Jonathan retorted.

Cynthia gave him a charming look. "That's enough."

Jonathan obediently sat down. Their argument ended in his defeat. He realized he couldn't play games with her.

During dinner, he mentioned, "I investigated Mrs. Erwin and found something unexpected."

Cynthia knew he was investigating Rachel to prove her innocence. "What?"

Jonathan showed her a video of Shirley leaving the scene of Dennis's death, providing concrete evidence of her presence and potentially mitigating Rachel's charges.

"How did you get this?" Cynthia asked, shocked.

Jonathan explained he found dashcam footage from a construction truck across the street.

Cynthia was amazed by his efforts. "Thank you. You've helped me a lot." She sent the video to her phone, then changed the subject. "I owe you a favor. How can I repay you?"

Jonathan, disliking her transactional approach, admitted, "I like that you owe me a favor."

They continued their dinner.

Shirley returned to see Cynthia with a man, who kissed her after noticing steak sauce on her lip. Shirley recognized the man's silhouette was not Filip's. Oh my god. Is Cynthia…