Chapter 429: Did Not Know Better Back Then

Paula’s expression shifted abruptly. She was about to ask if Cecilia had discovered something when the younger woman spoke.

“Why am I, your own flesh and blood, considered less than a stepdaughter? If you despise me so much, why did you bring me into this world?”

Paula’s tense nerves relaxed slightly. Her face, striking in its cold beauty, twisted into a mocking sneer. “If it weren’t for your father, I wouldn’t have wanted you. Your very existence is a mistake!” she spat.

Cecilia had heard this countless times. Though she thought herself indifferent, her heart inexplicably ached. Perhaps, like anyone else, she longed for a mother’s love.

Before leaving, Cecilia gave Paula an indifferent look. “If I had a choice, I wouldn’t want to be your daughter either.” She then quickly walked away.

Paula watched her go, silently clenching her fingers. Cassandra stepped forward. “Mom, what did you talk about?”

Paula’s gaze shifted from the retreating Cecilia to Cassandra, her expression softening with tenderness. “Nothing.”

“Mom, you don’t seem to like Cecilia very much, do you?” Cassandra asked. Surely, no biological mother could not love her daughter?

Although her mother, Queenie, was busy overseas, she'd assured Cassandra she would return for the engagement party and give her some Jamieson family business shares.

“Don’t even mention her,” Paula said coldly. “If it weren’t for her, I would still be a renowned dancer.”

Cassandra understood and asked no more.

Cecilia returned to the Rainsworth residence and found Nicholas waiting. His figure was tall and lean, his face pale, his eyes deep and tender, like Nathaniel’s.

“Finished shopping? Did she give you a hard time?” Nicholas asked, stepping closer.

Cecilia shook her head. “No. Cassandra and her mother are in the car behind mine.” She wouldn’t speak ill of Cassandra to Nicholas.

Knowing Cassandra wasn't with Cecilia, Nicholas drew closer. He lowered his voice. “Ceci, if you’re having regrets, you can still tell me.” He meant that if she wanted to be with him, he'd call off his engagement.

Cecilia’s heart shuddered. She shook her head instantly. “I have no regrets. You should focus on Cassandra. She’s exceptional—”

Before she finished, Nicholas swayed, falling toward her. Cecilia caught him.

“What’s wrong?”

His eyes were bloodshot, his eyelids heavy. “My ailment is acting up. Could you support me?”

Cecilia put down her bag and supported him. Nicholas leaned against her, the familiar scent bringing him relief.

“Do you remember? When I used to carry you home, you promised you’d marry me.”

A sharp pain pierced Cecilia’s heart. Giving him hope would only hurt him, so she distanced herself further.

“Back then, I didn’t know any better.”

Nicholas suppressed his bitterness. “I understand. I won’t take it to heart.”

He leaned against her quietly, his lips taut. Then, he spotted someone taking photos and wrapped his arms around Cecilia.