Chapter 134 Child Support

Half an hour later, Cecilia returned to her room to rest. Meanwhile, Nathaniel remained in his study. When Vivian called, Cecilia was stunned to learn she had to return a betrothal gift worth seven point nine billion.

“How can you possibly repay such a sum? Besides, your brother and mother swindled it. Why should you be the one to pay it back?”

Cecilia sat on the balcony, enjoying the breeze. “I spoke with him today. He refused to let bygones be bygones. He promised to drop the fraudulent marriage claim if I repay him.”

Vivian found this odd. “Ceci, I have a feeling he’s tricking you. He’s the CEO of Rainsworth Group—he can’t be short of money! I did some research. Rainsworth Group’s rental income alone exceeds sixty billion annually, not to mention other real estate, internet projects, and so on. People abroad say his wealth rivals that of some nations!”

Cecilia had never considered Nathaniel’s wealth. Before their marriage, her father only spoke of his capabilities, assuring her she wouldn’t be shortchanged. She worried he might feel shortchanged marrying her, so her father promised to entrust all the Smith family's resources to Nathaniel to ensure her well-being. Ultimately, Nathaniel received nothing.

Cecilia believed he needed money then, secretly using her savings to help with minor Rainsworth Group projects. Later, she noticed Nathaniel frequenting places even her father couldn't access, realizing he didn't need her help. She simply believed his company was thriving, unaware of his true wealth. Only now, hearing Vivian, did she understand why Nathaniel claimed he couldn't bear to part with her—his former "cash cow."

Vivian, seeing Cecilia's silence, asked, “Even if he isn't…”

“I’ve saved some money over the past few years. Give me a few more years, and I should be able to repay him,” Cecilia replied after considering it.

Vivian sighed. “He’s a jerk! Why does he insist on such a huge sum before leaving you and Eli alone? Has he forgotten how he mistreated you after your marriage? You should demand mental damage compensation and child support!”

Cecilia chuckled. “If I ask for child support, won’t he find out about the child?”

“You’re right. He has us cornered. Right now, all we can do is work hard and aim for a chart-topping hit!”

“Yes.”

A thought struck Vivian. “Ceci, can’t you ask Mr. Reese for help? Seven point nine billion wouldn’t be a big deal to him, right?”

Cecilia immediately refused. “Calvin has already done so much. Even as friends, I don’t want to keep accepting his help.”

“All right then.”

“Don’t worry, I believe I can earn this money.”

During her years abroad, despite Calvin’s initial assistance, she built her own life and career. After recovering from her depression, she worked hard to establish herself in her company and as a composer. Everything she achieved was through her own efforts. If Nathaniel could manage Rainsworth Group, she believed she could earn enough to repay him.

A knock came at the door. Hanging up, Cecilia opened it to find Nathaniel, freshly bathed, in a black robe.

“What are you doing…”

“It’s time for bed.”