Chapter 599: Misunderstood Me

Initially, Cecilia refused, but Vivian's persistent persuasion swayed her. That evening, Vivian arrived to collect Cecilia. Seeing the gauze on Cecilia's face, Vivian asked with concern, "Cecilia, how's your face?"

"Much better. The doctor said the bandages can be removed in a few days," Cecilia replied.

"That's good," Vivian said. The memory of Cecilia's injured face still made her shudder.

"Let's go," Vivian said.

"All right," Cecilia replied.

In the car, Cecilia asked about Jonathan. "Jon seems to fit in perfectly," Vivian said. "Grandpa even took him to a party today. With round-the-clock security, nothing will happen to him."

Cecilia nodded. "Vivian, I told you—Nathaniel discovered Jon and Eli's identities. I suspect they'll acknowledge Jon soon."

Vivian considered this, falling silent for a moment. "I'll tell Grandpa." George adored Jonathan; the news would devastate him.

Arriving at the gathering, they saw prominent figures from the financial news. Vivian sighed. "I thought getting engaged meant no more events. Grandpa says I can choose not to work, but as a Sinclair daughter-in-law, it's essential everyone knows me."

Cecilia was genuinely happy for Vivian, seeing how much George cared for her. Lost in conversation, they didn't notice someone approaching.

A familiar voice interrupted. "Vivian."

Vivian looked up, surprised to see Ernest, impeccably dressed in a suit. She froze.

Cecilia, regaining Vivian's attention, said, "Ernest."

Ernest looked at Vivian, his expression complex. Turning to Cecilia, he asked, "Mrs. Rainsworth, may I speak with her alone?"

Cecilia remained silent, her gaze seeking Vivian's confirmation.

"Go ahead, Ceci. I'll find you later," Vivian said.

"All right," Cecilia replied, quickly moving towards the business meeting area.

The atmosphere was lively. Ralph was there, but Paula was absent, having been returned to custody due to Cecilia's renewed lawsuit. Cecilia was searching for a quiet spot when a voice called out, "Cecilia."

She turned to find Nicholas, his arrival unnoticed. Remembering his use of Stella to frame Nathaniel, her fondness for him had diminished considerably. She nodded politely, her manner distant.

Calmly, Nicholas observed her and asked, "Is your face alright?"

"Yes," she replied.

Cecilia started to leave, but Nicholas quickly grabbed her arm. "Shall we talk?"

Cecilia frowned. "I've made everything clear. We have nothing to discuss." If not for his fiancée, her face wouldn't be injured, and Jonathan wouldn't have been in danger.

She tried to pull away, but he tightened his grip. "Ceci, you misunderstood me."

"Misunderstood me? Didn't you admit to everything you did to Nathaniel?" Cecilia retorted, unable to comprehend his transformation.

Nicholas' throat bobbed. "Have you fallen for him?"

Nicholas gazed into her eyes, seemingly finding his answer.