Back then when Cindy married Henrick, she announced to the public that Shandie was an adopted child
in order to protect their pride and reputation.
However, they both knew Shandie was actually their biological child.
Cindy thought that it was a good way to let Shandie enjoy all the privileges as the daughter of the
Southalls as well as protect Henrick and her reputation. However, at that moment, she hated herself for
hiding Shandieâs true identity.
Now, she could not even reveal the truth that Shandie was actually her biological daughter.
That woman was still consoling Cindy. Unable to bear listening to her any longer, Cindy told the guests
she was not feeling well before she left the backyard.
Arielle saw that scene.
She hurriedly went after Cindy and called out to stop her.
âAunt Cindy?â
Cindy came to a halt. She did not want to act anymore. Since Arielle had made her spit out the truth
using Matthiasâ herb and Henrick was not around, she knew that she did not need to put up an act there.
Coldly, she asked Arielle, âWhat do you want? I heard that you chased your homeroom teacher out of
here. Do
you think that your father was protecting you? He just wants the money. Although youâre his biological
daughter and Shandie was adopted, both of you are just his puppets to make money for him!â
Cindy was trying to provoke Arielle. Since she was upset, she would not let the latter have it easy either.
Yet, she was surprised that Arielle was not mad at all. The latter smirked as she questioned, âAdoptedâ¦
Are you sure?â
Cindy froze for a while before she calmed herself. I didnât mention anything about Shandieâs identity that
day.
She clenched her teeth and asked, âWhat do you mean?â
âNothingâ¦â Arielle deliberately drawled. âI just think you seem a little too upset with Shandieâs death. Itâs
almost as if sheâs not an adopted child but your biological child.â
Cindy became anxious upon hearing that and tried to calm herself. âWhat nonsense are you talking
about? I raised Shandie, so she was like a biological child to me. Quit talking nonsense!â
Arielle shrugged before she said, âMaybe Iâm talking nonsense, but do you know where Dad went just
now?â
Cindy furrowed her brows.
She wanted to know, but she could not ask Henrick about it with all the guests around.
Besides, she had assumed that Henrick went out for business.
However, she became curious after listening to Arielle.
After pausing for several seconds, Cindy said, âI donât know what youâre talking about. Let me tell you
this. Your father and I love each other dearly. You canât do anything to separate us!â
âLove each other? Arenât you afraid of being struck by lightning for uttering such a lie?â Arielle questioned
in a mocking tone.
Cindyâs gaze wavered when she yelled guiltily, âArielle! Stop with the nonsense! Iâm not feeling well. I
need to take a rest now!â
After that, she hurried off toward the mansion.
She was extremely nervous as she left, worrying that Arielle knew about her affair with Matthias.
However, upon further contemplation, she thought that it was impossible. If she knew about it, she
wouldâve exposed me long ago. She wouldnât keep it secret till now.
With that thought, she felt assured.
That was when she walked past Malorieâs room.