Chapter 7

After distributing the gifts, Cynthia and Filip went to their table near the entrance. It was empty, so they waited nearby.

Suddenly, Filip's phone buzzed. He checked it and quickly went to the side door leading to the garden.

Cynthia knew it was Lilian calling, but she didn't mind. Instead, she admired the antique décor in the banquet hall. The entire wall was lined with stunning Victorian ceramics; they were breathtaking.

Before long, a young girl approached. "Are you Mrs. Yates?"

Cynthia turned and replied, "How can I help you?"

"I'm Cherry White, the granddaughter of a commander from the Betrico military district. Can I ask about your Laron Floral Essence formula?" Before Cynthia could answer, Cherry added, "I'll buy the formula for any price."

Cynthia smiled. "It's not a big secret. I make it for fun. If you want it, I'll just give it to you."

Cherry's eyes sparkled. "Really? You'd give it to me?"

"Yes, just add me on WhatsApp, and I'll send you the formula tonight," Cynthia smiled.

Cherry quickly added Cynthia on WhatsApp. Soon, several other girls joined them. "I want it too. Can you add my WhatsApp, Mrs. Yates?"

Cynthia was surprised by the sudden crowd but added them all, promising to share the formula later. After all, these girls were the daughters of the mayor, wealthy heiresses, or granddaughters of high-ranking officials.

Shirley watched from a distance, fuming. She gritted her teeth and complained to Selena, "Mom, are they all clueless? Why are these Betrico girls trying to impress Cynthia? What's in it for them?"

Selena remained composed. "They aren't naive. All the guests brought fancy gifts, but only Cynthia stood out to Susanna. They want the formula to win Susanna's favor in the future. After all, one of them will likely marry into the Bennett family."

Shirley scoffed. "What's the point of impressing Susanna? Jonathan will marry whoever he wants. Maybe he doesn't even like those polished princesses. Maybe he prefers a rebellious Cinderella."

Selena seemed to understand. "Shirley, the Jones family is one of the top families in Roncrity, but we can't compete with the Betrico girls. The Bennett family is out of our league. But, honey, I will definitely find you a good match in Roncrity."

"Mom, you know Roncrity can't compete with Betrico. But people are always looking for something better. Why can't I give it a shot? Maybe Jonathan will like me," Shirley insisted, ambition gleaming in her eyes.

Selena shook her head, looking helpless. She knew social class was a tough barrier to cross. Wealthy people were more practical than ordinary people, especially those from prestigious families who prioritized social standing. The idea of a prince and a Cinderella only existed in fairy tales.

Meanwhile, the Betrico girls eagerly gathered around Cynthia, eager to chat with her. Cynthia played along, enjoying the attention, but she sensed the underlying competition.

"I saw him last month, and he said I looked pretty."

"Please! Before Susanna sent out those invitations, nobody knew Jon was even in Roncrity. You're making that up."

"Okay, maybe I exaggerated a bit, but seriously, is it cringy to call him Jon? Do you even know him? I bet you've never even spoken to him!"

Cynthia began to connect the dots—these ladies all had crushes on Jonathan. But she couldn't understand why they took him so seriously, considering their affluent backgrounds.

Sensing Cynthia's confusion, Cherry leaned in. "It's not just that Jonathan is the heir to the Bennett family. You'll understand once you lay eyes on him—no other guy will compare."

"So, these girls are all about looks," Cynthia chuckled softly. She'd had her share of crushes. Her initial attraction to her lover had begun during a wild night of drinking, but their three-year relationship had been based on his charm.

Just then, Zach rushed in. "Mr. Bennett is back!" he announced, heading for Susanna.

The lively hall fell silent. Everyone turned to the entrance, wondering if "Mr. Bennett" was Jonathan. Rumor had it that Susanna had three daughters, and Jonathan was her only son, born when she was in her forties.

The chattering girls around Cynthia quieted, their eyes fixed on the door. Cynthia held her breath.

Then, a tall man in a sharp, tailored suit and deep blue tie entered. He had an athletic build with broad shoulders and a slim waist. Each step resonated with the young girls.

Wow, his figure is truly a sight, Cynthia admired silently. But as her gaze rose, she froze. She felt as if she'd been hit with a spell; all the blood drained from her face.

His features were perfectly chiseled, with a jawline that looked sculpted. His skin had a sun-kissed glow, giving him timeless beauty that felt both pure and striking.

Yet, his lips had a striking red hue, as if he had just applied lipstick. This shade contrasted sharply with his skin, making him look like a dignified angel who had fallen from heaven. His presence brought a chilling elegance, an aura that seemed to cool the air.

He didn't glance at Cynthia as he walked past, leaving her dazed. After a moment, she asked, "Who is he?"

The young ladies erupted into chatter.

"That's Jonathan. The one and only guy in Betrico!"

"It's been three years since I last saw him, and he looks even hotter and more aloof now."

"Didn't you say you were going to make a move on him? Look at you now, too shy to even say hi."

"You're not any better!"

As the girls bickered, Cynthia remained dazed, trying to shake off the overwhelming feeling. Could that really be him? No way…