Chapter 610: Become the President
The other mothers waited, anticipating Cecilia's humiliation. Clearly, she hadn't considered the financial implications of her pledge.
Unexpectedly, Cecilia responded indifferently, "Of course." She produced a card from her bag, placing it on the table. "You can swipe this now," she said. Six million was insignificant to her. She didn't wear expensive clothes or carry luxury bags simply because she preferred not to, not out of inability.
Miranda, intending to embarrass Cecilia, found herself humiliated instead. Cecilia, a newcomer, had generously donated over six million, while Miranda, the parents' association president, had only contributed one and a half million. Miranda offered a strained smile. "Ms. Cecilia, you're so kind."
The mothers' disdain shifted as they realized Cecilia's capacity to donate such a substantial sum.
Later, Priscilla spoke privately with Cecilia. "Ms. Cecilia, you're so generous. Aren't you concerned about your family's disapproval?"
"I earned it myself. I don't need their permission," Cecilia replied. Priscilla admired her. Miranda's wealth stemmed from birth and marriage into the affluent Rainsworth family; Cecilia's situation was vastly different. Priscilla knew Cecilia's father had died years ago, leaving his fortune to her younger brother. Nathaniel, Cecilia's husband, and his family had always looked down on her, especially since Nathaniel's blindness worsened her circumstances.
"Ms. Cecilia, I'm sorry," Priscilla apologized abruptly.
Cecilia was puzzled. "Why apologize?"
"Ms. Miranda asked me to lure you into this," Priscilla explained. "New members aren't obligated to contribute unless it's prearranged. She wanted to make you look foolish."
Cecilia finally understood why Miranda, as president, had permitted her to join.
Chapter 610: Become the President
"Why tell me the truth now?" Cecilia asked skeptically, doubting Priscilla's sincerity.
Priscilla sighed. "As a mother, you know our children are vulnerable. Miranda, as president, holds significant influence—over parents, teachers, and administrators. She can affect a student's standing, turning parents, children, and teachers against them. Even parking spots are reserved for those favored by Miranda."
Cecilia recalled her struggles finding parking, always directed to the farthest spots, while other parents parked conveniently close.
"No wonder," she murmured.
Other mothers approached, interrupting Priscilla, who joined them in flattering Miranda before departing. They desired Cecilia's friendship but remained intimidated by Miranda's power.
Cecilia left the restaurant alone, observing the mothers. Isolated since the first day, she worried about Jonathan's potential isolation and vulnerability.
Cecilia waited until Priscilla was alone, then approached her. "If I become the president of the parents' association, can I end this unfair treatment?"