Chapter 85: Check Out the News

“Understood,” Zachary murmured, deciding to let Jonathan exhaust himself first. The birthday banquet for Niel was underway, and disrupting the festivities would be unwise. He had ample time.

Meanwhile, Nathaniel and Cecilia arrived separately. Cecilia deliberately waited for Nathaniel to enter before approaching, avoiding drawing undue attention from the Rainsworth family. Nathaniel acknowledged her subtle maneuver, remaining silent.

Stella, having navigated a minor media storm, had successfully charmed the reporters. Seeing Nathaniel, she composed herself and approached. "Nathaniel, the banquet's begun! Everyone's wishing Old Mr. Rainsworth a happy birthday. Why are you only arriving now? I've been waiting."

Nathaniel showed no inclination to explain his tardiness. "Then your wait is over," he replied nonchalantly.

Stella was taken aback, but Cecilia's arrival seemed to offer an explanation. She clenched her fists.

Nathaniel's entrance immediately drew all eyes. Many saw an opportunity to curry favor with the youngest head of the Rainsworth family. Elena felt a surge of pride.

Nathaniel first greeted Niel, the birthday patriarch—white-haired, cane in hand, but with twinkling eyes—wishing him well. Stella, too, sought to elevate her social standing. "Grandpa, I brought a gift."

Despite his dislike for her, Niel, like Elena, primarily desired Nathaniel's happiness. Moreover, Stella's recent song had proven her to be more than just a pretty face. He accepted her gift—a piece of high-quality nephrite, insignificant to the Rainsworth family's wealth, but its acceptance nonetheless signaled her acceptance into the family.

Cecilia observed the crowd's discussions.

"She's gone from rags to riches," one whispered. "An orphan turned star, set to become the Rainsworths' daughter-in-law," another added. "Not just luck. Have you heard her new song? Amazing!"

Cecilia listened impassively; her own grand plan for Stella was about to unfold.

Unaware, Stella moved toward Cecilia, basking in the flattery. "You saw it, Ceci? The world's changed. I'm the one at Nathaniel's side now."

A slight smile touched Cecilia's lips. "Is that so?" she replied. "Be careful; extreme joy often precedes sorrow."

Stella, misinterpreting this as jealousy, remained oblivious as the conversation around her shifted abruptly.

"Guys, check out the news! Stella's 'Ray of Light in the Dark' was plagiarized from a foreign composer!"

The news spread like wildfire.

"Oh my God, it's not plagiarism, it's copy-pasting! The melody's identical!" "Goodness, I never expected this…" "How could the Rainsworths accept such a daughter-in-law?"

The murmurs reached Niel's ears. He summoned an aide to inquire, quickly learning the truth. His face fell, and he immediately summoned Elena. "Look who you invited!"

Elena, having also seen the news, struggled to maintain her composure.