Chapter 440: CHAPTER 440

Chapter 440

“Mr. Ferguson, there’s no need for harsh words,” she began, her tone remarkably calm despite the tension buzzing in the air. “Two years ago, I admit I was bewitched by folly. But now, I am undeniably my mother’s daughter.”

Her composure didn’t waver as she continued, “I just wanted to let you know, someone saw Ms. Webster in the restroom looking quite unwell. Isn’t she your ex–wife? Maybe you should check on her?”

Before the echo of her words faded, the man in front of her stormed off towards the restroom with a dark expression clouding his face.

That woman always seemed to have luck on her side. It was one thing for her to be the lost heiress of the Myers dynasty. And now, one by one, everyone seemed overly concerned about that wretched woman! Summer’s thoughts darkened, a cold glint in her eyes.

Bella approached from a nearby table, “Summer, why are you standing here all by yourself?”

“Mom!” Suddenly, Summer’s expression softened as she turned to Bella, putting on a show of fake innocence. “I was just feeling out of place. I didn’t want to cause you any trouble.”

“That’s nonsense. You’re my daughter; no one would dare say a thing,” Bella reassured her, wrapping an arm around her shoulders and leading her towards the elevator. “If you’re uncomfortable, let’s head back to our room. You’ll get used to these events in time.”

“Mom, you’re so good to me!”

Summer wondered, though, if her mother would remain this kind if the day came when all secrets were revealed. Who knew who had the luck to be born

to Bella? Unfortunately, luck without longevity to enjoy it. If nothing went wrong, from this day forward, Bella’s daughter would only be her.

Once back in their suite, Bella finally noticed something, “Why don’t I see you wear g your jade pendant anymore?”

“Ah?” Summer paused, then responded with a hint of regret, “I didn’t want to

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risk losing or damaging it. It holds all my memories of you, Mom.”

In truth, Mark had forbidden her from wearing it. Could it be he feared the true daughter of Bella, lost to the world, might one day stumble upon this elite circle and recognize it? But even if that happened, with the pendant in her possession and the DNA test done, no argument could stand against her. Especially with the tactics of that man, whom she knew too well. Handling a lone girl would be effortless for him. Her fear was unfounded.

Hearing this, Bella’s guilt towards her daughter deepened, “Don’t worry, now that I’m with you, if it’s lost or damaged, I’ll get you a new one!”

“Thank you, Mom!” Summer’s smile was radiant. “But let’s not. It’s

irreplaceable to me, the first gift from you. A new one wouldn’t hold the same meaning. I want to keep it safe.”

That man had warned her, wearing it openly would have consequences she wasn’t yet prepared to face. He had placed her in this position, but his support was a double–edged sword; without his approval, she could lose everything.

*Sweetheart,” Bella said affectionately, pinching her cheek. “Go freshen up then. You shouldn’t sleep with makeup on.”

“Alright.”

Summer took this as her cue to retreat. Continuing the conversation carried the risk of revealing more than she intended.

Once alone, Bella decided. “Let’s purchase that villa we liked.”

Ivy hesitated. “Are you sure?”

It wasn’t about the money but whether Bella was truly ready to settle in Vista Town. Despite owning properties nationwide, they always stayed in hotels when visiting Vista Town. Bella harbored a deep–seated aversion, if not outright hatred, for this place.

Yet, looking towards the bedroom where Summer had disappeared, Bella’s expression softened, “I’ve made up my mind. As long as Summer is happy, that’s all that matters.”

12:23

Staggering out of the restroom, the banquet hall’s glamour seemed to blur before my eyes. I couldn’t fathom who might have drugged me.

“Jane!”

Bryant’s voice was a steadying force as he rushed over, catching me before I could falter, “Are you feeling alright?”

“I’m… not sure…” Under the influence, my voice was weak, barely my own.

Bryant’s concern deepened, a storm brewing in his eyes. “Did someone drug you?”

“It seems like it,” I confessed, finding solace in his presence amidst the chaos. Struggling to maintain composure, I looked up at him, “Could you… take me home?”

“I wouldn’t leave you alone like this,” he assured me, his protective stance a comforting barrier against the night’s shadows.

As we headed towards the exit, Bryant made arrangements for our departure. The sleek black Maybach waiting outside was a silent testament to his foresight.

Just as he was helping me into the car, a Bentley Mulsanne sped towards us, halting just inches away. The window rolled down to reveal Gregory’s scornful gaze, his words laced with mockery, “Heard you needed a ride. Seems like you’ve found one already.”