Chapter 651 Largest Shareholder
In this preschool, the head of the parents‘ association was also the representative for all the classes in the entire grade. Thus, members of the association from other classes would often
come over.
Last time, Cecilia had met a few people but didn’t fully get to know them.
These individuals, as long as they had some family assets, had all been discreetly approached by Miranda for collaboration.
This was also why Helen had no idea about the other parents‘ betrayal earlier, only stumbling upon this information just now.
Given that her family was teetering on the brink of bankruptcy and had no money, Miranda naturally wouldn’t seek her out, nor did she care about the votes from one or two impoverished families.
Before the selection of the new president began, Miranda approached Cecilia, challenging her publicly, “Do you really think a disabled person can lead the homeowner’s committee, Cecilia?”
She pointed to the hearing aid that adorned the latter’s car.
“What if your hearing aid breaks while someone else is speaking? Surely, we wouldn’t have to wait for you to replace it with a new one, right?”
Cecilia didn’t show any signs of irritation towards her provocation, and her expression remained. calm.
“I feel that, compared to people with disabilities, those who are physically sound but harbor darkness within are even less suited to serve as the president of the parents‘ association. After all, the group exists to serve the children. Those with a dark heart would only plot harm against children, wouldn’t they?”
“What are you babbling about? Your child clearly started it by harming my son first!” Miranda instantly lost her temper.
Cecilia looked at her coldly. “Deep down, you know who is really trying to harm whom.”
It was astonishing to see Felix, a mere child, thinking of taking people to settle scores with Elliot at the latter’s own home. What was even more shocking was that Miranda not only didn’t stop him, but even aided and abetted in this scheme. It was truly an eye–opening spectacle.
Miranda wanted to continue her argument with Cecilia, but the arrival of the teacher and the principal interrupted her, and she had no choice but to temporarily hold her tongue.
After the principal arrived, he briefly spoke with the members of the parents‘ association present, discussing the children’s growth over the past year.
Then, he began to let everyone cast their votes, choosing the head of the association.
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Chapter 651 Largest Shareholder
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Ever since Miranda had joined, no one else vied for the president’s seat. Everyone knew they couldn’t compete with her household.
Yet today.
, on the big screen, Cecilia’s name surprisingly appeared.
The principal introduced. “Last year, the son of Ms. Smith, Jonathan, transferred to our school from abroad. She told me she has ample time and is interested in running for the president of the parents‘ association, aiming to contribute to our community. To run for this position, Ms. Smith has even donated fifty million to our school while simultaneously buying the majority of our school’s shares. This makes her the largest shareholder of our school right now.”
Upon hearing this, some of the unsuspecting mothers couldn’t help but express their surprise in hushed whispers.
So, not only did she donate fifty million, but she’s also become the largest shareholder of the school?
What’s her background? Could she possibly be wealthier and more influential than Miranda?
Some people who knew her didn’t think much of it and would privately tell other mothers, “Oh. her? She’s just living off her husband’s savings and insurance money. I don’t think it’ll be long before she cries poverty.”
“So, that’s how it is. Who’s her husband, anyway?”
“Nathaniel Rainsworth. He was originally the CEO of Rainsworth Group, but he went blind after a car accident. Where else do you think she got her money from?”
“So, are you saying that Cecilia and Miranda are actually cousins?”
The mothers loved nothing more than a good piece of gossip, and this sparked all sorts of discussions amongst them.
Before the voting segment, the two candidates took the stage to deliver their speeches, with Miranda going first.
She stepped onto the stage, her face filled with unwavering determination and confidence.
“Ladies, I don’t have much to say. I trust that you all will
you all will support me.”
After speaking, she glanced at Cecilia and returned to her seat.
Beneath the seating area, applause erupted like thunder.
When Cecilia took the stage, the applause abruptly ceased. What replaced it was everyone whispering amongst themselves in disrespect.
Down below, Helen was sweating profusely for her.
Chapter 652 Financial Report
Cecilia stood on the stage, showing no signs of fright despite the sheer disrespect from the audience.
“Hello, everyone. I’m Cecilia Smith, Jon’s mother. The principal has already introduced me carlier, so I won’t introduce myself again.”
The mothers in the audience carried on with their demeanors, showing no regard for her.
Worry filled Helen’s eyes as she silently wished she had somehow managed to stop Cecilia earlier.
Things were surely going to be really awkward now.
Upon witnessing the situation, Cecilia remained composed as ever. She no longer beat around the bush and took out a USB drive.
“Could you help me with the screen projection?” she asked the principal.
The latter immediately stepped forward and helped get the projector ready.
Some of the mothers took notice. “Well, isn’t this all very organized? Are you planning on giving a PowerPoint presentation?” they teased.
“What’s the use of being so well–prepared? It takes much more than that to become the president.”
“If I were as wealthy as she is, I wouldn’t even bother with all this. I’d just switch my son different school.”
on to a
lips
A smirk curled up at the comers of Mirandas as she heard the mothers mocking Cecilia.
How naive of you, Cecilia.
In a typical school, the president of the parents‘ association would naturally possess a variety of skills, which would facilitate collaboration with the school.
Yet, this wasn’t the case here. After Miranda had assumed the position of the president, she didn’t need to work at all. All she had to do was enjoy the authority that came with the presidency.
Everyone was engrossed in watching Cecilia, but to their surprise, what appeared on the projection screen was a financial report.
“What is this?”
Someone had noticed that the signature on the financial statement was that of Adrian Rainsworth.
“It looks like a financial report from Adrian’s company!”
Someone spoke up.
Chapter 652 Financial Report
Miranda was instantly baffled.
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In a leisurely manner, Cecilia enlarged the image to its maximum size, highlighting all the losses. in the report in red. This made it crystal clear to everyone just how much of a dire state Adrian’s company was in.
“What on earth is this, Cecilia?” Miranda snapped back to reality, pointing at her as she questioned.
Pretending not to hear anything. Cecilia turned to address the mothers in the room. “The reason I’m showing you this financial report is to remind everyone to be cautious with investments. If anyone is really in need of money, feel free to ask me for help.
Realization dawned on the mothers who had invested in Miranda.
They had been duped!
What Miranda had spoken of as a ‘sure–win, no–loss‘ project was nothing more than a massive hole filled with their money.
Their faces turned deathly pale one by one, hearts pounding in their chests. They wanted to ask Miranda what exactly was going on, yet they feared it was all a misunderstanding.
“Cecilia, where did you get these fake figures from? I’ll sue you!” Miranda threatened Cecilia, fearing getting exposed.
Not the least bit scared, Cecilia gazed at her. “You can sue me, but there’s no need to claim that the data has been falsified. If you don’t believe it, you can wait a few days and see if you make any profit.
Then, she turned to the audience. “By the way, according to my estimations, all of your money will vanish in thin air in less than a week. Alright, I’ve said all I needed to say. It’s time to vote.”
Of course, Cecilia didn’t expect a piece of data to sway these mothers‘ opinions.
She simply wanted to warn them in advance that they had placed their trust in the wrong person.
If they didn’t believe her words, they would find out the truth in a few days.
When that time came, no matter how craftily Miranda tried to argue, it would prove futile.
Clearly flustered, Miranda quietly explained to the other mothers, “Don’t believe her. These kinds of statistics can easily be faked. My husband mentioned not too long ago that he’ll soon dominate the entire market. Once that happens, we will be able to reap some huge profits.”
They truly treated ordinary people like they were there for the taking.
However, this time, their wishes might not be fulfilled.
Chapter 653 That First Wife
Upon hearing Miranda’s words, the mothers seemed to gain confidence, dismissing what Cecilia had said as unimportant.
The voting concluded and, without any surprises, Miranda was still elected as President.
However, what was surprising was that a significant number of people, amounting to a quarter of the group, actually sided with Cecilia.
The latter found it a bit peculiar. At that moment, she noticed among the group of mothers a woman who was elegantly dressed and exhibited a lot of grace. This lady gave her a gentle smile.
Once the meeting was over, the woman approached Cecilia.
“Thank you, Ms. Cecilia.”
“For?” Cecilia was somewhat puzzled.
The woman then spoke up. “Do you still remember Ms. Camila?”
When the topic of Conrad’s mother came up, Cecilia’s memories were instantly pulled back to a few days ago. The teacher had asked her to come to the school to discuss an incident involving Jonathan hitting someone.
Conrad was among the children who were disciplined. His mother had an exceptionally good figure, which drew considerable attention. However, she was someone’s mistress.
The reason Cecilia knew about this was all thanks to the information given by Dorothy’s mother, Priscilla.
She had also seen news reports about this female model who was exceptionally arrogant. Camila had openly confronted her partner’s wife online, infuriating her to the point of hospitalization.
“Of course, I do,” replied Cecilia. “So, who might you be?”
“I am that first wife,” the woman responded unhurriedly.
Cecilia didn’t seem surprised.
The woman before her may not have had the Camila’s physique, but her face and demeanor were certainly more captivating.
“My name is Meredith Seiler.”
Cecilia didn’t know her as she had never attended the gatherings hosted by Miranda, nor did Priscilla ever provide her information regarding this woman.
“Thank you. If it weren’t for you, I probably wouldn’t have had a single day of peace, let alone bet here,” Meredith added. “I came here to vote as Conrad’s mother.”
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Chapter 653 That First Wife
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“I see,” Cecilia responded with a smile. “I should be thanking you instead–for making my loss a little less embarrassing.”
Originally, Cecilia had prepared herself for only a few votes today, yet unexpectedly, she had managed to secure a quarter of them, which wasn’t too shabby.
“There’s no need to thank me. I’m not a fan of Miranda either. She’s selfish and self–serving. It’s just not fair to many kids. You aspired to be the president of the parents‘ association. Truthfully, everyone was secretly hoping for it.”
The two women shared a lengthy conversation, and it was only when they reached the school gate that they said their goodbyes.
After Meredith had left in her car, Cecilia could hear the mocking voices of the other mothers around her. “I thought she was something special, but she’s just like the rest of us, trying to fool
Us
“I’m not sure who tipped her off about our investment in Miranda, giving her the chance to pull such a stunt. Today really scared the life out of me.”
“Yeah, if all our money went down the drain, my husband would kill me.”
After hearing everything, Cecilia looked on with complete indifference.
She paid no mind to these people, knowing that in no time, they wouldn’t be able to act so brazenly anymore.
Intending to see how Jonathan was doing in school, she chose not to return.
Upon arriving at the classroom, the children were all engaged in play.
Then, she noticed Jonathan sitting alone, engrossed in a book.
Her eyes were filled with heartache.
Feel as though someone was watching her, Jonathan followed the gaze back to its source.
Immediately, Cecilia went into hiding. She knew that Jonathan and Elliot were different; the former valued his pride and was very sensible, so he certainly wouldn’t want her to worry about him.
Feeling peculiar, Jonathan withdrew his gaze.
At that moment, Felix hopped over to him. “Hey, Jonathan, your mom didn’t make the cut. Hmph.”
Jonathan looked at the boy, finding his childishness a bore.
“Oh.”
“Aren’t you upset or mad?”
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Chapter 653 That First Wife
“Yeah, I’m so upset and angry. Oh, boy,” Jonathan replied flatly.
Send Gifts
Chapter 654 Done For
Well aware he was being snubbed, Felix raised his hand in a fit of anger, ready to strike Jonathan.
The latter shot him an icy glare, prompting him to immediately drop his hand. With a hint of reluctance, he departed.
Unable to win in a fight or triumph in an argument, Felix felt an overwhelming sense of defeat.
They used to get along so well, but now, their relationship had now turned incredibly tense, and he was beginning to feel some regret.
After returning home from school, Felix sprawled himself out on the sofa.
Seeing him in such a pitiful state, Miranda couldn’t help but worry. “What’s wrong, son?”
“Mommy, I want to apologize to Jon.”
The boy only found Elliot slightly bothersome, but he didn’t harbor the same feelings toward Jonathan.
Upon hearing those words, Miranda was instantly filled with rage. “Why do you want apologize to him?” she demanded. “You’re my son! Why should you have to apologize to a b*stard child?”
Seeing his mother’s angry demeanor, Felix dared not bring up the matter again.
Miranda advised him once more, “Felix, you simply can’t be friends with a b*stard child. You all belong to the same generation of the Rainsworth family. Your father is always being overshadowed by Nathaniel and Nicholas. Do you really want to grow up and be ruled by their children too?”
Felix immediately shook his head. “No, I want to be the boss of Rainsworth Group.”
Miranda smiled. “That’s the spirit. You’re my son, after all. You certainly can’t be like your father, always benefiting others at his own expense.”
“Yeah.” Felix nodded repeatedly. “I’ll work hard.”
“Alright, go hit the books once you’re done with dinner.”
In an effort to ensure Felix’s grades surpassed Jonathan’s, Miranda had even hired a private tutor for him. The child had to continue studying every night at ten o’clock.
She wouldn’t allow her son to be inferior to others in any respect.
When Felix went to eat, Adrian walked in, his head hung low and his face deathly pale.
“Honey, what are you doing, coming home so early today?” Miranda asked, puzzled.
The man slumped onto the couch, rubbing his head in defeat. “Miranda,” he began with a sigh, “I’m done for.”
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“What do you mean?”
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“All my money’s gone. There’s no way to get it back,” Adrian answered, every word carrying weight.
Miranda’s head buzzed loudly. “Didn’t you say there wouldn’t be any problems as long as we had more money?”
“Not every business profits. I didn’t expect IM to make their move so early and buy off all my distributors. Now, they won’t even supply me with goods, and they keep demanding we repay them.” Adrian sighed deeply again. “I think our only option right now is to file for bankruptcy for the new company. That way, we can at least still salvage some of the losses.”
Upon hearing this, Miranda couldn’t help but ask, “What about my parents‘ money and that of all the wealthy mothers?”
“Don’t they understand that investing comes with risk?” The man stood up. “I need to tell Grandpa about this. If he finds out on his own, we’re definitely in for some huge trouble.”
Miranda felt her heart sink.
She had just assured the other mothers earlier during the day that nothing would go wrong, but now, she was about to eat her own words.
Adrian’s newly established company declared bankruptcy the very next day.
The mothers who had invested their money woke up to the news.
Flabbergasted, they began to question Miranda in the group chat.
Miranda initially didn’t respond. As the mothers grew impatient, they started calling her.
Left with no other choice, the woman posted a message in the group: We’re all adults here, and it should be understood that investing is part of financial management. It’s perfectly normal to experience both losses and gains. There’s no free lunch in this world. How could you possibly expect to make a 100% profit? Moreover, wasn’t your decision to invest based on the fact that I’m a daughter–in–law of the Rainsworth family? You wanted to ride on my coattails, but now, you’re pointing fingers because of your own losses. Don’t you find your own decisions questionable?
Send Gifts
Chapter 655 How Childish
When Cecilia woke up in the morning, she also saw the message from Miranda and couldn’t help but feel astounded.
She certainly has a knack for passing the buck. But she isn’t wrong in that we’re all adults, and it’s a delusion to make money easily by just riding on someone else’s coattails.
After a moment of silence in the group chat, no one dared to condemn Miranda anymore.
After all, their children were studying with her son, and they all lived in Tudela. Thus, they simply couldn’t afford to offend her.
However, they also couldn’t accept having all that money go down the drain.
At that point, they finally remembered Cecilia. They all texted the latter to apologize, even promising to vote her as the president of the parents‘ association the following year.
Cecilia looked through the messages but didn’t bother responding to them.
Even Helen texted her: Have you seen the message in the group chat, Ms. Cecilia? I reckon those turncoats must be regretting it now!
Cecilia knew that she was sincere toward her, so she sent her a screenshot of the number of people who texted her.
In turn, Helen sent her an impressed emoji.
Cecilia set her phone aside, having no intention of replying to the mothers just yet.
She got out of bed and went downstairs, only to find Nathaniel sitting on the couch with the television, which had always remained switched off, turned on.
An advertisement was airing on the television
Upon closer inspection, Cecilia realized that the male celebrity in the advertisement was none other than Eric.
A radiant–looking Eric stood on the vast Alendor plains, surrounded by stunning Alendor women. Yet, he appeared very weak. Unexpectedly, his script was, “Oh no, I’m too weak.”
Only then did Cecilia understand that he was the spokesperson for the drug to treat men with sexual dysfunction.
Though not a celebrity herself, Cecilia knew the significance of a celebrity’s persona.
As a young superstar, endorsing such a product would undoubtedly lead to a significant drop int female fans and also invite a lot of ridicule.
“Why would he accept such an endorsement?” Cecilia mumbled to herself.
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Upon hearing that, Nathaniel parted his lips slightly. “That’s just how entertainers are. They’re willing to do anything as long as the price is right.”
Once he had finished speaking, he swiftly picked up the remote control and switched channels, lest Cecilia were to catch him replaying the same advertisement repeatedly.
Cecilia rebutted, “Eric is different from other celebrities. Most of the money he earns goes to charity. He hardly has any savings himself. Perhaps he ran into some difficulty.”
I was just wondering why Eric suddenly went to Alendor when everything was perfectly fine. Could it have something to do with the rumors about us that circulated last time?
At her defense of him, Nathaniel’s face darkened, and he questioned, “How are you so sure that he does charity?”
“Regardless of that, it’s true that he donated a lot of money. That’s more than enough. He’s far better than those who talk about benevolence and kindness all the time yet do nothing at all,” Cecilia retorted.
Nathaniel was left without a retort.
Nonetheless, he was certain that she wasn’t referring to him because he had never been. benevolent and kind but had always been quite wicked.
“I’m going to give him a call and ask him about this” Cecilia then left the living room.
Nathaniel initially thought that by having Eric endorse such a product, Cecilia would certainly have a bad impression of the man. Unexpectedly, she possessed an overwhelming sense of maternal affection and pitied him instead.
With his eyebrows furrowed slightly, he made a call to Mason.
“Don’t let Eric return. Have him continue shooting other advertisements in Alendor! Also, remember not to give him any special treatment but let him live just like the locals.”
A pretty boy, huh? I shall see if Cecilia would still like him when he’s tanned to a crisp.
Mason felt that he understood his employer’s intention and couldn’t help but lament inwardly. How childish of Mr. Rainsworth!
Send Gifts
Chapter 656 Eric Is Just Too Sly
Having walked out. Cecilia was just about to call Eric when the latter surprisingly beat her to it.
“Have you listened to my new song yet, Ceci?” Eric’s excited voice drifted out.
Cecilia truly didn’t want to spoil his excitement at that moment, so she didn’t mention that she had seen the advertisement.
“No. Your new song has been released?”
“Yes, Quick, go and listen to it, then tell me what you think about it!”
Sheer excitement sparkled in Eric’s eyes, and he was much like a child sharing a delicious treat with a friend.
“Okay.”
After hanging up the phone, Cecilia decided to listen to the song first.
She opened her music application. Without needing to search, she saw Eric’s new song. Surprisingly, it ranked second on the trending music list and was swiftly closing in on the Top
spot.
When she hit play, Eric’s voice was not only crystal clear but also full of emotion as it drifted out, making the charity song about familial love exceptionally moving.
She also noticed a music video. Upon opening it, she was greeted by familial scenes that were captured during Eric’s shoot in Alendor. The visuals were particularly touching.
whole music video, she was no longer concerned about Eric going to Alendor to shoot such a kind of advertisement.
After listening to the entire song silently and watching u
At the same time, news of Eric showing no fear of his image being destroyed by shooting an unconventional advertisement to aid impoverished regions slowly gained traction online and climbed its way to the top of the trending list.
Numerous fans posted comments on the issue.
One typed: I just knew I hadn’t chosen the wrong person to support. He’s truly incredible, willing to make a personal sacrifice for the greater good.
Another seconded: Eric’s songs are great, but his person is even better.
Someone else remarked: As he is as beautiful, so is his voice.
Another person retorted: Pah! He’s handsome, okay? Haha…
Consequently, not only did the number of Eric’s fans not decrease but increased instead.
Perhaps it was because they saw the peculiar advertisement shot by Eric, which led them to
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Chapter 656 Eric Is Just Too Sly.
associate it with Eric doing it for money to aid impoverished children.
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Additionally, the charity song encapsulated the essence of most familial relationships, and the lyrics were so moving that it could bring one to tears..
It conveyed a tale of a mother who ceaselessly sacrificed her own life in order to save her child..
Cecilia promptly called Eric back to congratulate him. “Congratulations! It seems like your rise to stardom is just around the corner.”
A smile played at the corners of Eric’s mouth. “It was all thanks to your song. Otherwise, how else could I shot to fame again? When I return from Alendor, dinner is on me.”
“Sure,” Cecilia agreed readily.
Many people also praised the quality of the melody and lyrics online.
Cecille was once again brought up by the public.
Someone ventured: Ms. Cecille was also the composer for that dancer, Cassandra Evans, back then, right?
Someone else commented: You’ve only just found out? Any singer who sings her songs is certain to be incredibly popular.
Another person seconded: In the past, Stella Ross could even go viral for a while despite only pirating her unfinished songs.
Yet someone else exclaimed: Awesome! I’m going to look
up
her other songs.
Everyone was in for a surprise once they did some digging. They all learned that the signature songs that propelled many of the current singers to stardom were all written by Cecille.
In an instant, many people started to idolize her.
Cecilia’s assistant, Charlotte, also saw it. She made a call to Cecilia, asking, “Boss, have you seen the trending headlines online? Many people in the country love your music a lot. Shall we set up an account to maintain a fan base?”
Cecilia felt that her popularity right then was indeed crucial.
“Sure. I’ll leave it to you.”
“Alright.”
Charlotte set up a domestic account while abroad. In no time, the number of Cecilia’s fans. skyrocketed to over a million.
Though it was nothing compared to Eric’s fanbase, it was already quite remarkable for a composer who seldom made public appearances to garner such a huge following.
Once Cecilia was done with everything, she went back into the house.
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Somewhat
unhappy.
“What’s wrong?” she asked.
Nathaniel rose to his feet. “Nothing. I’m off to work first.”
“Oh, alright.”
As soon as Nathaniel got into the car,
car, Mason said, “That Eric guy is just too sly, Mr. Rainsworth.”
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Chapter 657 How Could I Miss Out On The Show
Mason told Nathaniel about Eric having gained popularity then.
Nathaniel’s mood worsened. “Is the judgment of all women nowadays so poor?”
In his opinion, there was little difference between celebrities and those who sold their bodies.
In truth, Mason wanted to say that his fiancée was also a fan of Eric’s. After all, the latter was of mixed descent, handsome, had a great voice, a wonderful personality, and a kind heart, not to mention, irresistibly adorable.
That was his fiancée description of Eric.
He even asked his fiancée who she would save first if he and Eric both fell into the water at the same time.
“A celebrity who depends on popularity like him will fade into obscurity soon enough. If you truly don’t like him, we’ll just turn him into a notorious artist.”
Mason didn’t like Eric anymore either.
Upon hearing that, Nathaniel declined because he knew that if Cecilia were to find out about it, he would undoubtedly have to apologize again, and the loss would outweigh the gain.
“There’s no rush. Take your
your time.”
“Understood. Also, Adrian has already filed for bankruptcy. He’s probably pleading with Old Mr. Rainsworth as we speak.”
Nathaniel remained indifferent to that piece of news by Mason.
This time, even if his father were to return, he wouldn’t be able to save him, not to mention Old Mr. Rainsworth. Didn’t he refuse to apologize on his knees?
“What about the Leighton family?” he asked.
“They’re also in a financial bind. The informant said that those of the Leighton family are. planning to visit Rainsworth Manor tonight to seek help from Old Mr. Rainsworth,” Mason replied.
“How could I miss out on such a great show?”
Nathaniel decided to bring Elliot and Cecilia to Rainsworth Manor when Elliot returned that evening to avenge the grievance they suffered previously.
Ever since Elliot started attending preschool, he felt fulfilled in both body and mind.
When he returned from school that day, he was in incredibly high spirits.
“Let me show you something, Mommy. All these are gifts from the girls.”
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He unzipped his little bag. It was originally almost empty, but it was crammed full right then.
There were pretty little hair clips, hair ties, chocolates, lollipops, and the like.
Cecilia sorted the haul with him, feeling happy on his behalf, never having expected her son to be so well–liked by the oth children.
Seeing Elliot so spirited and happy, she was genuinely overjoyed and also regretted not agreeing to send Elliot to preschool sooner.
Even though his health is not the best, he still needs the company of friends.
“Is Jon back, Mommy?”
Elliot looked around everywhere.
Cecilia shook her head. “He’s currently staying at Old Mr. Sinclair’s house.”
George had already acknowledged Jonathan as his great–grand–godson. He was reluctant to let Jonathan leave and even specifically called Cecilia previously to ask if Jonathan could alternate between living at Sinclair Manor and Daltonia Villa.
Cecilia didn’t want to disappoint him, so she agreed.
“Never mind, then.”
Elliot felt a bit disheartened, for he had been looking forward to showing off his haul to Jonathan.
“By the way, Mommy, Felix didn’t make trouble for Jon, did he?”
On the day he went to preschool, he noticed that Cecilia was very anxious and reckoned that it might be because of something concerning Jonathan.
Not wanting him to worry, Cecilia shook her head and fibbed, “No.”
“Oh, that makes sense. Jon is not as easy to push around as I am. It would be too hard for Felix to bully him.”
Cecilia couldn’t help but laugh.
At that moment, Nathaniel returned.
Elliot acted cute. “Did you miss me, Daddy?”
Nathaniel was not a person who would put his feelings into words.
“No.”
“You broke my heart. I was at school for so long, but you didn’t even miss me.” Curious about the current relationship status of his mommy and his sc*mbag of a daddy, Elliot was just about to probe when Nathaniel added, “Pack up a bit. We’re going back to Rainsworth Manor for dinner
Chapter 658 Drag Someone Down With Him
Cecilia couldn’t help but find it strange that they were going to Rainsworth Manor for dinner.
“Why so sudden?”
“To watch a show while getting a free meal,” Nathaniel replied without elaborating further.
Upon hearing that, Cecilia didn’t ask any more questions. She helped to change Elliot’s clothes. Then, the family of three went back to Rainsworth Manor by car.
At Rainsworth Manor where Niel resided, the man sat at the head of the room, his face as black as thunder.
Were it not for the fact that his great–grandson, Felix, was sitting next to him, he would have long since thrown a punch at Adrian.
Inside the living room, Derek and Velma were seated on either side of the room, while Adrian and Miranda were lectured while standing.
“Grandpa, I genuinely didn’t expect Imminence Corporation to give me a hard time at every turn. If it weren’t for it, I would have already dominated most of the market in Tudela long ago, Adrian continued to boast.
Niel was incredibly shrewd. Upon discovering that he had incurred losses of over a billion and was in debt, he immediately ordered an investigation.
While the new group buying was considered a novel project, there was absolutely no guarantee.
It was all about investing money into it.
“Back when Nathaniel managed Rainsworth Group, all the companies in Tudela sabotaged him. Why didn’t he suffer losses to the point of filing for bankruptcy? At the end of the day, it’s all because you’re incompetent!” Niel didn’t mince his words with Adrian.
Adrian’s expression darkened.
No matter how capable Nathaniel is, what good is he now that he’s blind? Could he still run a company in his condition? Even if he could do it, no one would respect him or be willing to let a blind man manage the company, no?
“I’m not the only one suffering losses, Grandpa. Why don’t you ask Nicholas? After he has taken. over Rainsworth Group, the company seems to be improving on the surface, but in reality, it’s also being suppressed by Imminence Corporation.”
Adrian was resolved to drag someone down with him if he were doomed.
Niel hadn’t been involved in the management of the company for over a decade. Hearing that, he frowned slightly.
“Nicholas has only been taken over the company for less than half a year, so it’s already
van
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achievement that he managed to gain the trust of the old–timers. How many years have you been in the company in comparison? Do you think you can compare to him?”
Adrian was rebuffed once again.
“From now on, just be a manager in Rainsworth Group. Stop establishing branch companies and making yourself a laughing stock,” Niel asserted.
While he would be a manager in title, in reality, he would be nothing more than an employee. Ast such, Adrian and Miranda would never be content with that.
Immediately, Miranda shot Felix a look.
Felix tugged at Niel’s hand. “Don’t be angry, Great–grandpa. When I grow up, I promise to earn the money back.”
After Niel heard his great–grandson’s confident voice, his mood improved significantly.
“Okay. I’ll wait for you to grow up, Felix. His face was a picture of affection.
Seeing that Niel’s mood had improved slightly, Miranda shot her parents a look.
Only then did Derek and Velma start in slight embarrassment, “Old Mr. Rainsworth.”
Niel turned to them and signaled them to speak their minds.
Velma shamelessly pleaded, “Could you please have Nicholas lend us a hand, Old Mr. Rainsworth? Recently, a lot of our stock sources have been cut off by Imminence Corporation. Even with money, we can’t get any goods. If this continues, we won’t be able to hold out for much longer.”
In actual fact, she didn’t speak the whole truth.
Not only were they unable to purchase goods, but they also had no money to buy any.
Besides, it wasn’t that they wouldn’t be able to hold out for much longer. Instead, they were on the brink of bankruptcy.
Niel was just about to respond when Nathaniel, Cecilia, and Elliot unexpectedly arrived.
When Cecilia walked through the door, she happened to overhear Derek and Velma’s words. Just a few days ago, they were beyond arrogant, demanding that their Eli kneel and apologize to their grandson. And now, they’re here to beg the Rainsworth family for help?
“Grandpa,” Nathaniel and Cecilia greeted.
Elliot also obediently did the same. “Great–grandpa.”
Although Niel was biased, he knew that he still had to keep up appearances
Chapter 659 Why Did You Not Bring Jon Back
Niel didn’t expect them to return at that time. He responded, “Mhm.” Then, he turned to Nathaniel. “Nathaniel, why didn’t you bring Jon back with you?”
He was still hoping to see his other great–grandson.
People around him already learned that Jonathan was exceptionally intelligent. The last time he faced danger, he maintained an unwavering calm like Nathaniel.
“Jon has been staying with the Sinclair family recently. He’ll return in a few days,” said Nathaniel.
“Still with the Sinclair family, huh? Old Mr. Sinclair really has no shame. He doesn’t have a great- grandson of his own, so he clings onto mine. When Niel spoke those words, there was an undeniable sense of pride hidden in his eyes.
Meanwhile, George sneezed.
Niel once again addressed Nathaniel and the others, saying, “Please sit down. We’ll all have dinner together in a bit.”
“All right.” The family had gathered in the living room.
With that, Derek and Velma didn’t feel appropriate to ask for money or help again.
Miranda was also getting anxious. She tugged at Adrian’s hand.
Adrian had no choice but to brace himself and continue, “Grandpa, about Miranda’s parents…
Only then did Niel remember. “When Nicholas arrives later, talk to him. I’m old now and don’t have the energy to care about such matters.”
He had a soft spot for Felix. After all, Felix had grown up by his side since childhood, but he was no fool.
He knew Leighton Group was an outsider. If he casually agreed to help, and it somehow turned out to be detrimental to Rainsworth Group, the loss would outweigh the gain.
Upon hearing that, Derek and Velma felt even more embarrassed.
Just at that moment, Elliot spoke. “Great–grandpa, did they come to ask you for a loan?”
Before Niel could respond, Elliot turned toward Derek and Velma, pretending as if he had long. since let bygones be bygones. “I still have a few hundred in my piggy bank. Do you need it? If so, I can lend it to you.”
Derek and Velma instantly flushed with embarrassment.
They weren’t interested in just a few hundred.
Velma said with a sarcastic tone, “Even one of Felix’s toys is worth more than your piggy bank.”
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Nathaniel spoke up. “So, you’re saying you didn’t come to borrow money?”
Velma choked up.
Cecilia finally understood the reason Nathaniel had brought her there.
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Because Nathaniel had given her a heads–up. Elena knew her grandson was coming and had arrived early. From a distance, she heard Velma making sarcastic remarks about her own grandson, which instantly soured her mood.
She walked in wearing high heels.
“Mrs. Leighton, what exactly are you implying? Eli harbors no grudges and is even kind enough to lend
you money. Why are you comparing him to Felix?” Elena was not someone to be trifled
with.
She didn’t show the slightest respect for Derek and Velma in front of everyone. “Let me tell you, Felix is not even worthy of being a shoe–bearer for Eli!”
Following that, silence descended upon the room.
Elena wasn’t just making idle talk with those words
They were all children of the Rainsworth family, so naturally, she couldn’t make a comparison of their paternal family, but she could with the maternal family
The Griffiths family was far more influential and powerful than the Leighton family. Elena even had seven brothers in her family.
They were Nathaniel’s and Nicholas uncles, which made them the granduncles of Elliot.
The Griffiths family had numerous sons, all of whom were exceptionally talented. Therefore, when Elena was in the Rainsworth family, even Niel had to show her some respect.
“Mdm. Elena, how could you say such a thing?” Velma stammered, struggling to form a sentence after a while.
They naturally didn’t dare to offend Elena.
Miranda and Adrian did not dare to utter a single word.
It was the first time Cecilia saw Elena defending her own son, which warmed her heart. She felt happy for both Elliot and Jonathan. Although their granny isn’t the kindest, they have a grandma who will always stand up for them.
Chapter 660 Is That True
Elena approached Velma. “A few days ago, I was out handling some business. When I returned, I heard that you wanted Eli to kneel and apologize to Felix. Is that true?”
The aura she exuded made Velma take a step back.
Elena sneered, “I showed you two some respect because you’re in–laws, and yet you. think you can walk all over me? Do you think you’re worthy enough to make my grandson kneel? You must be joking. So what if Eli caused Felix harm?”
Miranda, Adrian, and the Leighton couple were at a loss for words.
Originally, Elliot disliked Elena. However, witnessing the scenes unfold before him, he was astonished. It seems Grandma Elena is genuinely speaking up for me.
Elena didn’t stop there. “I heard your company’s been struggling recently. Are you planning to borrow money or goods from Nicholas?”
Derek and Velma avoided Elena’s gaze.
Elena continued, “I can assure you, it’s not going to happen. The company is single–handedly built by my two sons. Why should we cover your losses? If you’re capable, go find your own sons or sons–in–law.”
In the end, Derek and Velma didn’t even have their meal before Elena sent them packing.
Niel merely cautioned Elena to not be so hot–tempered and said nothing else.
Adrian and Miranda also left dejectedly with their son.
During dinner, Elena had someone continuously prepare delicious dishes for Elliot.
She also told Elliot, “In the future, if there’s anything you crave, just come back home. I will personally make it for
you.”
Elliot’s attitude toward her had slightly improved, but only just a bit. “No need. Mommy will make it for me.”
Upon hearing those words, Elena appeared disappointed.
Cecilia also noticed that his son seemed to harbor a dislike toward Elena.
After dinner, Elena pulled Cecilia aside and asked, “Have you been preventing Eli and Jon from getting close to me in private? I’m the children’s grandmother. Do you think this is right?”
Cecilia had never done such a thing before, and she had never mentioned the children’s grandmother to them. “I never did such a thing. If you don’t believe me, you can ask Nathaniel.”
“Nathaniel’s practically stuck to you right now. He will definitely stand up for you.”
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Chapter 660 is That True
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Cecilia was somewhat at a loss for words but still managed to say, “I can tell you genuinely care for Eli and Jon. Don’t worry, I’ll have a proper talk with the children. They’re probably just not used to the situation yet.”
Upon hearing that, Elena finally let it go and showed concern for Cecilia’s condition. “I was a bit agitated earlier. You’re pregnant, so don’t take my words to heart. As a mother, I naturally hope for the best for all of you.”
It had been a long time since Elena referred to herself as Cecilia’s mother.
Cecilia understood Elena was considering the fact that she was pregnant.
“I won’t take it to heart,” said Cecilia. Because I simply don’t care.
Cecilia understood that her mother–in–law was just that, a mother–in–law. There was no blood relation between them, so she didn’t care whether Elena treated her well or not.
As long as Elena treated her descendants well, that was all that mattered.
After returning to Daltonia Villa, Cecilia was in Elliot’s room, asking, “Eli, can you tell me if you like or dislike Grandma Elena?”
Upon hearing his mother’s inquiry, Elliot thought she was upset he had been talking to Elena, so he immediately shook his head in response. “I don’t like her, only Grandma Martha.”
“Why?” Cecilia couldn’t comprehend his answer. He has only recently met Elena and always likes people who treat him well, so why does he dislike Elena?
Elliot fell silent, unsure of how to explain without arousing his mother’s suspicion.
He could sense that his mother didn’t like Elena, but he couldn’t voice that out.
Cecilia appeared to understand Elliot’s concerns and began to speak. “Eli, adult matters don’t concern children. You’re not only my son but also Grandma Elena’s grandson. You must never hurt her feelings, understand?”
Elliot understood what Cecilia meant and nodded emphatically. “Mm.”
After their conversation, Cecilia left Elliot’s room, ready to retire for the night, when she bumped into Nathaniel, who was standing at the doorway.
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