Ch. 181..190

Chapter 181 She’s So Cool!

The director team, which had been oppressed for so long, finally got the chance to punish Catherine and Audrey.

One staff member suggested that since the three of them were so bad at cleaning, they should be assigned to clean the entire crew’s area. However, the director rejected this proposal. In his view, the viewers already knew that the three of them were not good at these tasks. If they were still assigned to do them, it would be a very deliberate act.

He didn’t want the viewers to misunderstand their intentions and start boycotting the show. After all, the viewers were the ones who provided the financial support, and this show couldn’t afford to offend them.

The director smirked and said, “Don’t worry. I have already come up with a punishment. Just leave it to me!”

When Audrey and the others received the punishment card from the production team, they were dumbfounded. Audrey looked at the staff in astonishment and asked, “Are you sure the director hasn’t gone crazy?”

The staff couldn’t hold back their laughter, awkwardly looking at Audrey. Seeing her reaction, Grayson approached and took a look at the card. He also seemed confused.

“The director must be insane!” Grayson exclaimed. Then, the staff loudly announced the punishment.

“As the last group to complete today’s challenge, you will be assigned the punishment task by the production team. You have to brush the teeth of the crocodiles at the zoo!”

In nature, all living things had a symbiotic relationship and coexisted harmoniously. Animals like crocodiles had birds that cleaned their mouths in the wild. But in the zoo, regular cleaning by humans was necessary to ensure the health of their teeth.

The punishment was set by the production team, and the three of them had to comply. They were taken to the crocodile pool, where three crocodiles were waiting for them to help brush their teeth.

To avoid hurting them, the crocodiles’ mouths were secured temporarily. The staff handed them the cleaning tools, one for each person.

Grayson took the lead and prepared to give it a try while Audrey cowered behind Catherine, her face wrinkled in fear. The director sat in front of the monitor, smugly waiting for the upcoming comical scene.

As soon as Grayson stepped forward, laughter erupted. Although the crocodile’s mouth was secured, its body could still move. When Grayson approached with a specially made toothbrush, the crocodile suddenly swung its tail, scaring Grayson away.

Grayson had probably never been so embarrassed in front of a camera in his life. Unfortunately, that was exactly what the production team was waiting for. They zoomed in on Grayson’s face, capturing his twisted and exaggerated expression perfectly.

It was at this moment that his fans realized that their beloved idol also had a vulnerable side. Despite his fear, Grayson regained his composure and continued to try.

His initial instinctive reaction to retreat was something he couldn’t control. However, the task had to be completed, and Audrey was too scared to continue. They had to rely on Grayson.

As they watched him step forward again and again, only to be scared back by the struggling crocodile, Audrey couldn’t bear to watch anymore and muttered quietly, “The production team is too cruel. This task is unbearable.”

Catherine, who had been standing silently, finally took action after seeing Grayson being scared back once again. As she walked forward, Audrey anxiously shouted, “Kathy, come back! It’s dangerous!”

Audrey’s warning reached Catherine’s ears, but Catherine remained unfazed. Catherine continued to approach and stood beside the crocodile.

“Catherine!” Grayson looked at her with a puzzled expression in his eyes. Catherine’s gaze was calm as she slowly focused on him, raising her chin slightly to signal him. Then, she directly took action, making a shocking move.

The director of the production team, who witnessed this scene, widened his eyes in astonishment. Catherine suddenly pounced on the crocodile, firmly holding onto its body with both hands.

This was surely a bold move. But how could her strength as a girl overpower a crocodile?

She must be crazy!

Unexpectedly, Grayson followed suit. After Catherine held onto the crocodile, he instantly understood her intentions from their previous eye contact and rushed forward to brush the crocodile’s teeth.

Something strange happened. The crocodile seemed to be under some sort of spell. It was previously thrashing around violently, but now it remained motionless, allowing Grayson to clean its teeth.

Grayson’s speed was incredibly fast. After cleaning its teeth as required, he signaled to Catherine to let go of her grip, causing the crocodile to spring up.

At that moment, everyone realized that the crocodile hadn’t become obedient. It simply wasn’t able to resist in the face of Catherine’s overwhelming force.

The astonishing strength of Catherine left everyone stunned. Her strength was even greater than the crocodile’s. Oh my, she was amazing!

At that moment, it seemed that Grayson was like a little girl. The two of them cooperated seamlessly, following the same plan, and quickly completed the task.

After the crocodiles were taken away by the zookeeper, Audrey finally gathered her courage to step forward. The first thing she did was go to Catherine’s side, tightly gripping Catherine’s arm with a strange look in her eyes.

Seeing her peculiar expression, Catherine furrowed her brows slightly and asked softly, “What’s wrong?”

Audrey nervously swallowed before daring to speak, “Kathy, did you work on the muscles in your arms? Can I touch them?”

Audrey was really curious. Although she didn’t know how much strength it took to hold down a crocodile, she thought that Catherine looked so cool just now.

Before Catherine could answer, Grayson rolled his eyes. In his opinion, Audrey’s question was just too stupid. After all, Catherine was capable of anything.

He had heard people in the base talk about how Catherine had encountered a tiger during wilderness training. And she was able to subdue the tiger barehanded, eventually escaping from its jaws. It showed just how terrifying she was.

To prevent Audrey from disturbing Catherine with such foolish questions again, Grayson immediately changed the subject and took her away.

With the mischievous person gone, the variety show instantly became much livelier. Thanks to Grayson’s participation, the show gained a huge boost in popularity, and the ratings soared once again.

Not only that, Grayson followed Audrey on Twitter because Catherine didn’t use it. He could only keep up with Catherine’s updates through Audrey. As a result, Audrey gained 300 thousand new followers overnight. Kim was ecstatic and immediately called Audrey.

“Audrey, let me tell you, Catherine is definitely your lucky star. With her popularity, it’ll be easy for you to become famous. You better hold onto Catherine tightly. She’s your lucky star! Don’t listen to those people spreading rumors about her being a disaster!”

Audrey held the phone, her face full of helplessness as she laughed.

“Kim, I’ve said it before. Kathy is a lucky star, not a disaster!”

Chapter 182 She’s Very Important to Me

The two-day program recording quickly passed by. Since each guest had their own chauffeur-driven car, the program team didn’t arrange transportation for them to go back.

However, this arrangement didn’t apply to Audrey, who used to be a relatively unknown actress but had gained a bit of fame recently. The company hadn’t gotten around to assigning a chauffeur-driven car for her yet.

“Kathy, wait a moment. Kim said he couldn’t come to pick us up, so I’ll call a taxi right away!” Audrey said. Just after she finished speaking, a black Mercedes chauffeur-driven car appeared in front of them.

When Audrey wondered who could be coming to pick them up, the car door opened, revealing the handsome face of Grayson.

With a friendly smile on his face, Grayson looked at Catherine affectionately and said, “Catherine, get in the car. I’ll take you home!”

Catherine glanced at Audrey. Audrey understood that Catherine was seeking her opinion. Despite Catherine’s usual cold demeanor, she was actually very considerate of people’s feelings.

“Sure. It’s best to have a free ride. Let’s go, Kathy. Let’s get in the car!” Audrey said. Just when they were about to get in the car, they heard a honking sound.

A black Maybach slowly approached the two of them. When the car stopped, two handsome men with completely different temperaments got out of the car. Branden walked straight towards Catherine and stopped in front of her, extending his hand in the air, waiting for her.

Catherine took off the bag on her back and casually threw it into the man’s hand as if she had practiced the motion a thousand times.

After Branden took Catherine’s bag, he subconsciously felt an intimidating gaze on him. He turned his head and looked at the nearby chauffeur-driven car. Then, he met Grayson’s intimidating eyes.

Grayson doubted if there was something wrong with his eyes. He was dumbfounded when he saw Catherine getting so close to a man, and more importantly, Catherine willingly threw her bag into the man’s hand. This was impossible!

Triston came as well. When he heard Branden was going to pick up Catherine, he decided to come along with him.

“Catherine, it’s been a few days. Do you miss me?” Triston said with a mischievous tone. Hearing his inappropriate words, both Catherine and Branden rolled their at the same time. eyes

Triston was so scared that he felt a chill down his spine. He was on the verge of kneeling down and quickly closed his mouth.

After that, Branden’s eyes turned towards Catherine. His originally sharp and cold eyes softened instantly when they fell upon Catherine.

“Shall we go?”

Catherine nodded slightly but noticed that Audrey had been silent for a while. She turned her head to look at Audrey and noticed that something was off.

“Aren’t you coming?” Catherine asked casually. Unexpectedly, Audrey’s reaction was extreme. Her expression suddenly changed as she said, “Kathy, I just remembered that I have something to do. I’ll go back and talk to the director about it. You guys go ahead!”

She emphasized again, “Don’t wait for me. I’m serious!”

Without waiting for Catherine’s response, Audrey dragged her luggage and left, leaving everyone confused and speechless.

Triston looked at Audrey’s fleeing figure and said, “Catherine, what’s wrong with your sister? Even if she has something to discuss with the production team, it’s normal for us to wait for a while. It’s not easy to get a taxi in this remote area.”

Audrey’s behavior was indeed weird, and Catherine could tell from her expression and eyes just now. It didn’t seem like Audrey had encountered any problems, but she was obviously avoiding something.

But in Catherine’s view, this was Audrey’s private matter. Since she didn’t want to talk about it, Catherine wouldn’t ask. If Audrey didn’t want to go with them, they didn’t have to wait for her.

“Let’s go!” Catherine said.

Then, Branden and Catherine got into the car. Triston, afraid of being left behind in this desolate place, immediately caught up and said, “Wait for me!” He knew very well about his current status. He was a dispensable guy. If he didn’t keep up, he could be abandoned at any time. In that case, he had to go home alone.

Grayson’s gaze was full of grievances as Catherine left.

“Damn it,” he cursed inwardly. “Boss was taken away by a stranger. She didn’t get in my car!”

The manager beside him had never seen Grayson care so much about a woman before. Moreover, Grayson’s reactions since coming to this program were completely different from his previous behavior, which was completely surprising.

Knowing that Grayson had a bad temper, as a manager, he still needed to understand the situation.

“Grayson, is Catherine really that important to you?” the manager asked.

When Grayson heard the question, he turned his head. His previously pitiful eyes instantly darkened, and his facial expression became extremely serious.

“Ellis, just remember that Catherine is the person I’m willing to sacrifice everything for. Please don’t question her importance to me, and don’t even think about making a move on her. Because neither you nor I can afford the consequences!”

Grayson’s response made Ellis’s face darken. It was the first time he had seen Grayson introduce someone so seriously. In the entertainment industry, Ellis was considered a top- notch manager, and besides Grayson, he had many A-list celebrities under his management. But this was the first time Grayson had spoken to him like this, which piqued his curiosity.

“Is she really that important?” Ellis asked.

Grayson nodded with a serious expression. “I’m serious!”

Seeing his seriousness, Ellis had to drop the subject. As long as Grayson didn’t have any intentions of developing a romantic relationship with Catherine, Ellis didn’t really care about anything else.

Grayson was still on the rise now. He had countless fans. If he were to have a romantic relationship at this moment, it would be fatal.

After getting in the car, Catherine lazily leaned against the back seat and rested with her eyes closed throughout the journey. Feeling the silence in the car for a long time, Triston started to feel bored. He cleared his throat before speaking.

“Catherine, I’ve been so bored lately. How about I throw a party tomorrow and we can hang out together?”

Triston now knew that the fastest way to invite Branden out was through Catherine. Only she could effortlessly get Branden, the big shot, to hang out. Hearing his voice, Catherine tiredly raised her head and rejected, saying, No.”

She just said one simple word, which was quick and decisive! Before Triston could persistently plead, Branden, who was sitting beside him, closed his laptop and turned his head to look at Catherine.

“Do you have plans for tomorrow night?

The Duncans’ affairs were complicated, and he had only recently taken over as the family head. Many things were waiting for him to handle. He had to make time if he wanted to see Catherine.

Catherine casually replied, “Tomorrow is my grandmother’s seventieth birthday. I need to go to see her.”

Branden nodded slightly and then asked, “Should I come along?”

Chapter 183 Again and Again

The Duncans and the Swanns formed an alliance through their marriage arranged by Vicente. Sitting in the front, Triston laughed happily, saying, “Ha, Mr. Duncan, you’re doing a great job being so respectful to the elders. Well done, you can be considered a role model for us young people. I will learn from you!”

Branden kicked the back of the front seat with a handsome gesture. Triston immediately apologized, “My bad. I’ll shut up. I shouldn’t have spoken.”

After they finished their quarrel, Catherine replied lazily, “No need.” She added, “Besides, I haven’t even met her either. It might be even more awkward if you come along.”

With a simple explanation, everything became clear.

Branden instantly understood the situation. Catherine had been abandoned in the countryside since she was a child. She was only called back when she turned eighteen. She had little contact with the Swanns, let alone the Langs.

Since Catherine considered the birthday person unimportant, Branden naturally had no reason to meet her.

The next evening, after Catherine finished school, Liana, who always kept her distance from Catherine and didn’t want to have any relationship with her, suddenly blocked her way.

Catherine stopped and casually put her hands in her pockets, lazily looking at Liana. Before Catherine could speak, Liana hurriedly stated her purpose.

“Catherine, did Dad tell you Grandma is celebrating her birthday tonight? You must attend, you know?”

A hint of impatience flashed across Catherine’s face. Korbin had called her during lunch break, and she had already agreed. She didn’t expect Liana to repeat it.

It seemed that these people were afraid that she wouldn’t go. Why did they need to emphasize it over and over again?

Catherine didn’t bother to respond, her gaze slightly darkened as she stared at Liana. Perhaps sensing Catherine’s displeasure, Liana softened her attitude, and her voice became gentler.

“Catherine, our family’s car is here to pick me up, right at the entrance. Since we’re going to the same place, I can give you a ride!”

It was natural for Catherine, as the second daughter of the Swanns, to ride in the Swanns’ car driven by the Swanns’ driver. However, Liana’s tone made Catherine feel like she was being given a favor.

Ronin, who was standing aside, couldn’t stand it anymore. He pointed at Liana’s nose and cursed, “What the hell? How expensive is your family’s car? What kind of background does it have? And you’re offering to give my boss a ride? How audacious do you have to be to say such shameless words? My boss doesn’t need your car. With just one phone call, I can have a row of globally limited-edition cars wait for her!”

Ronin’s words were impolite enough, and his expression showed clear disdain towards Liana.

“Don’t embarrass yourself. I advise you to go back home right now, dumbass!”

he continued.

“Ronin, you goddamn little…” Liana’s face twisted in anger as she glared at Ronin.

But Ronin wasn’t buying into her act. He was even more aggressive than her. “So what? Aren’t you a princess? Are you ready to fight me? Fine, let’s do

this. I’ll tear off your hypocritical mask and let everyone see. How dare you act so arrogant in front of me? I can tear you to pieces and humiliate you

whenever I want! You think you’re a tough fighter because you know a little martial arts? Your tricks are only suitable for dealing with someone like Elena!”

When Elena was mentioned, Liana’s face instantly turned pale. She didn’t know what Ronin knew precisely, but she knew that if she continued to argue, she would be the one to lose out.

Frustrated, Liana stomped her foot and yelled at Catherine in a pitiful tone,” Well, kindness goes unappreciated. Catherine, I just wanted to offer you a ride, but if you don’t appreciate it, then fine, don’t take it.” After saying that, she left in a huff.

Watching her retreating figure, Ronin cursed in confusion, “Boss, this hypocrite woman stomped her foot before leaving. It’s infuriating. Next time, I’ll make her regret it.”

Catherine, bored, looked out the window at the falling leaves, listening to Ronin’s complaints, her mind drifting away. Ronin could easily defeat Liana without Catherine’s help.

After venting for a while, Ronin finally stopped and then asked Catherine seriously, “Boss, are you really going to that boring birthday banquet today?”

Catherine adjusted the backpack by her side, casually slung it over her shoulder, pulled out a hat and put it on, and nodded absentmindedly.

Seeing that she was determined to go, Ronin quickly exclaimed. “Then I’ll go with you!”

Catherine lowered her head, glanced at him, and said in a low, deep voice, ” Why are you going with me?”

“To serve you, of course!” Ronin said as if it was something natural. In his opinion, the Swanns and the Langs were not good people. Although Catherine had a high IQ, she might still be at a disadvantage in dealing with social matters. Ronin wanted to go to take care of her and help out.

Catherine stepped forward, bypassing Ronin, and casually patted his shoulder, whispering, “No need, all you need to do is study hard and prepare for the SAT!”

Ronin was speechless. “Are you serious, Boss?” he asked inwardly. ” The SAT?”

He wondered if Catherine had forgotten that he graduated early from Starford University at fourteen. When Ronin snapped out of his daze, he couldn’t find any trace of Catherine.

Catherine walked towards the school gate, ready to pick up her motorcycle, but she saw a red Beetle slowly approaching in the distance, heading towards the school gate.

She stopped in her tracks, waiting eagerly for the red Beetle to come closer until it stopped by her feet. After the car stopped, the window immediately rolled down.

Audrey, with a big smile on her face, looked at Catherine. Her voice was slightly louder, sounding somewhat excited.

“Kathy, luckily, I rushed here just in time after your school ended. I didn’t expect to run into you like this.”

Audrey’s appearance made Catherine’s face lose its usual indifference and gain a hint of coldness.

However, Audrey didn’t notice it and was still immersed in her own world, incessantly chattering to Catherine, You have no idea how congested the road was. I was so worried that you couldn’t catch a ride. You’ll have to take a taxi. The weather has been changing drastically lately, and it gets so cold at night. It’s also windy. If you stand by the roadside, you’ll definitely catch a cold! But luckily, I arrived just in time, right?”

Audrey looked up at Catherine with a happy smile, her eyes shining like stars. Catherine’s face returned to its usual indifference, and her voice sounded emotionless. “You rushed here to pick me up because you worried I wouldn’t catch a ride and get cold?”

“Yes!” Audrey answered without any hesitation. “What’s wrong? You seem a bit off.”

Catherine curled her lips into a faint smile, trying to appear as calm as possible. “Nothing!” she said and then opened the car door to get in.

Chapter 184 You Asked for It

Halfway through, Audrey received a call from Rachael, asking where Audrey was and specifically emphasizing one question.

“Has Catherine come along?”

After hanging up the phone, Audrey turned her head to look at Catherine, her eyes still filled with confusion.

“Kathy, why is Mom suddenly so concerned about us this time? She keeps asking if you’re coming or not. It’s really strange!”

Then, Audrey answered herself, lost in her own thoughts, “Maybe it’s because our relatives on Grandma’s side haven’t seen you for a long time, and they’re eager to see you since you rarely come back. Well, old people always hope for family reunions, right?”

Audrey muttered to herself, and Catherine remained silent. Audrey was used to Catherine’s silence, so she didn’t think much of it and continued to speak from time to time.

Catherine lazily leaned against the car door, her eyes half-open. The slanting sun made her face appear fair and radiant, which looked incredibly beautiful.

A hint of mockery was on her exquisitely perfect face, hidden within her lazy and carefree posture. “They want to see me?” Catherine murmured in her heart. “Perhaps. But anyway, I don’t care.”

After a journey of over half an hour, their car finally stopped at the entrance of the Langs’.

The Langs were originally an ordinary small family, but things changed because Rachael married into the Swann family.

The Langs’ children benefited from this marriage and gained many advantages from the Swanns. They went from an ordinary small family to a wealthy one. The rest of the Swanns had already arrived. Korbin, Rachael, Liana, and Johnathan were already seated and waiting.

Audrey glanced at them, a bitter smile appearing on her face. She whispered to Catherine, “Kathy, don’t you think they look more like a family? And we…”

Audrey didn’t finish her latter sentence of “and we seem so out of place” because she was worried it would upset Catherine. After all, being excluded and not valued by one’s biological parents was too painful.

Audrey had endured it for so many years, and she didn’t want her sister to experience the same tragedy.

Catherine nodded, agreeing with Audrey’s observation. In her opinion, Audrey was right. These four people indeed looked more like a family, birds of a feather!

Liana noticed their arrival but didn’t immediately greet them or inform Rachael. She discreetly tugged at Johnathan’s sleeve, gesturing for him to look over there.

Johnathan glanced over, and his eyes instantly lit up, excitement radiating from his whole being. The one they had been waiting for had finally arrived!

“Mom, look over there. The troublemaker has arrived!”

Rachael put down her cup of coffee and looked in the direction indicated. It was Catherine, with Audrey standing beside her. As she glanced over Catherine, the noble and dignified look in Rachael’s eyes was instantly replaced by disdain.

She despised Catherine, considering her a disaster who kept causing trouble. Not only did she dislike Catherine, but she also hated Audrey, who was close to Catherine. Rachael’s remaining fondness for Audrey disappeared, replaced by disgust.

“Johnathan, go and bring those two over. Don’t let them stand at the door. It’s embarrassing!”

“Alright!”

Johnathan happily agreed and stood up, shouting in Audrey and Catherine’s direction, “Audrey, troublemaker, over here!”

Johnathan’s sudden movement and increased volume caught everyone’s attention towards Catherine. Audrey had met these people before and could recognize them.

Now, everyone’s gaze was focused on Catherine, scrutinizing her. Then, they began to whisper to each other.

“So, this is the second daughter the Swanns threw to the countryside! She looks good!”

“She might look good, but so what? She’s a disaster!”

“That’s right. We must stay away from girls like her. She will bring bad luck to her husband!”

Catherine stood quietly on the side, her hands in her pockets. Her neat bangs partially covered her star-like eyes, filled with a deep, serene gaze.

A hint of arrogance and cunning could be seen on her face. Her lightly pursed, thin lips showed a faint trace of coldness. She heard every word around her clearly, and her gaze gradually turned icy as she listened to those comments.

These people were not worthy of her taking action, were they? Audrey also heard the discussions of those people. Her face instantly darkened, and she frowned, complaining, “Johnathan is such a bastard! How could he call you like that?”

Catherine turned her head and looked at Audrey with a piercing gaze, a hint of seriousness and mischief in her eyes. So you think he is a bastard too, huh?”

Audrey was taken aback by her question but soon nodded silently.

“Yeah, you’re his sister. He shouldn’t speak like that! I’ll talk to him later and teach him a lesson.”

Before Audrey could finish speaking, she noticed Catherine walking straight towards that table. Her steps were arrogant and domineering, like a gust of wind.

Audrey quickly followed, sensing that something was wrong. Johnathan looked at Catherine and Audrey as they approached, a proud expression on his face. Finally, he had the opportunity to teach Catherine a lesson.

As Catherine approached, a wicked smile appeared on Johnathan’s lips, a particularly despicable look in his eyes. He crossed his arms, trying to provoke Catherine. “Hey, troublemaker, you sure have a big ego. We’ve been here for so long, and you’re just arriving!”

Noticing Catherine staring at him with a cold gaze, Johnathan said with disdain, “What? You want to hit me? Come on, give it a try!”

Catherine nodded and instantly fulfilled Johnathan’s request. She slapped him right across the face! With a loud sound, everyone was stunned. How dare she!

Johnathan covered his face, unable to react for a long time. The first to react was Rachael. She didn’t expect Catherine to have the audacity to hit her son in front of so many people. She slammed the table, expressing her anger and dissatisfaction, and this loud noise brought Johnathan’s senses back.

After Johnathan realized what had happened, his face instantly turned red with anger, and his eyes glared at Catherine like daggers.

“How dare you hit me?”

Catherine looked calmly at Johnathan with a smirk on her lips, exuding a playful arrogance and wickedness.

“You asked for it, didn’t you? You asked me to hit you, and I gave you what you want.”

Johnathan was furious. He wanted to retaliate, but when he remembered Catherine’s aggressive posture when she hit him, he knew he would only end up being pinned down and beaten by her.

He cursed, “You goddamn…” but before he could finish his sentence, she silenced him by a single glance. The last word instantly got stuck in his throat and couldn’t come out.

Chapter 185 Foolish Johnathan

There was no way to deal with Catherine, so Johnathan had to seek help from his parents.

“Mom, Dad, look. She dared to hit me in front of you. She used to bully me every day! She’s so arrogant! She’s a monster. If you don’t punish her, she’ll make more trouble,” he exclaimed.

Rachael didn’t lose her temper. They were in public, and she had to maintain her composure in front of Korbin, the head of the family. She turned her gaze towards Korbin, expecting him to handle the situation.

Korbin looked at Catherine with a dark expression, his eyes sharp and fierce. “Catherine, why are you so rude? What do you think you are doing?”

Audrey was frightened. She grabbed Catherine’s hand, trying to prevent her from acting impulsively. But Catherine wasn’t being impulsive.

Catherine didn’t lose her temper or show much emotion from beginning to end. She calmly met Korbin’s gaze, her indifferent attitude revealing an unknown hint of coldness.

“So, in your opinion, it’s acceptable for Johnathan, the legitimate heir of the Swanns, to shout and insult his sister in public?” she asked. “Or perhaps Johnathan’s actions were instructed by his parents?”

Korbin felt embarrassed being publicly questioned like this. Seeing that Korbin didn’t immediately punish Catherine, Johnathan grew impatient and angrily suggested. “Dad, why waste time talking to her? Just get someone to hold her down and teach her a lesson!”

Korbin turned his head and glared at Johnathan, scolding. “Sit down!” The authoritative and stern words almost made Johnathan kneel in fear.

Under Rachael’s gaze, Johnathan reluctantly sat down, his eyes filled with resentment. Korbin coldly stared at the disobedient Johnathan, feeling that he was stupid. It was true that Catherine was a troublemaker, but that was just a rumor spread in private.

Before Vicente passed away, he personally brought Catherine back, acknowledging her identity. As a daughter of the Swanns, she was a part of the Swanns.

Prominent families always valued their reputation, and Johnathan’s outburst had indeed tarnished the Swanns’ image.

Regardless of how they treated Catherine privately, those scandals couldn’t be brought to light. If people found out that the Swanns couldn’t even accept their own daughter and treated her so poorly in private, what would happen to the Swanns’ reputation?

Korbin observed Catherine, and from her calm and composed demeanor, he sensed something. It turned out that this girl dared to be so audacious because she believed he wouldn’t allow the Swanns’ reputation to be insulted in public. No wonder she was so confident.

If anyone was to blame, it could only be his foolish son, who acted without using his brain.

Despite knowing how arrogant Catherine was, Korbin had to swallow his anger silently. He was highly frustrated. He suppressed his anger and reprimanded Johnathan, “Johnathan, if I hear those words from your mouth again, there will be severe consequences. Now, apologize to your sister!”

Johnathan was dumbfounded. He didn’t expect to be the one who had to apologize to Catherine. What kind of logic was this?

Johnathan almost exploded with rage, but Rachael stopped him in time. She whispered, “My dear son, don’t forget why we came here today. Let that troublemaker be arrogant. The more arrogant she is, the less people will tolerate her. It’s best to let everyone witness her rudeness, and then your uncle can deal with her.”

Under Rachael’s persuasion, Johnathan finally managed to hold back his anger. At the moment, Korbin had made a decision. Just because Catherine wasn’t afraid of him didn’t mean that the other Swanns weren’t scared of him.

Rachael was just a housewife without any real power. Everything she had came from the Swanns. Now that Vicente had passed away, she could only rely on her husband, Korbin. Johnathan was facing the same situation. Therefore, they couldn’t offend Korbin as Catherine did.

In their opinion, Catherine was just temporarily arrogant and would eventually be kicked out. They didn’t even want to pay much attention to her.

Everyone thought Catherine would be severely punished, but it turned out that Johnathan was the one who apologized. Those who had looked down on Catherine and considered her a troublemaker were dumbfounded.

Could it be that Catherine held a high position within the Swanns? Nobody knew for sure. However, her arrogant attitude and the aftermath of her defiance made everyone cautious about underestimating her.

These people were trying to curry favor with the Swanns during this birthday banquet, but now they didn’t even dare to offend Catherine. Even the legitimate son of the Swanns would get hit for calling her a “troublemaker,” let alone these people.

The situation quickly calmed down, and Audrey finally breathed a sigh of relief. She cautiously pulled on Catherine’s sleeve and whispered, ” Kathy, I was so scared just now. I was going to run away with you.”

Audrey showed Catherine the car keys she had taken out of her bag. She had decided just now that if Korbin ordered someone to punish Catherine, she would run away with her. Anyway, they didn’t live in the Swanns’ house anymore. She could run away with Catherine, buying them some time to consider what they should do next.

Looking at Audrey’s serious expression, Catherine found it amusing, which was a peculiar feeling.

Catherine didn’t expect that when faced with conflict with the Swanns, the once obedient eldest daughter of the Swanns would want to run away with her.

Catherine felt that her cold heart seemed to melt, and an unknown affection swept over her. Liana suppressed all her dissatisfaction. She thought that under Johnathan’s provocation, Korbin could teach Catherine a lesson.

However, Johnathan was such a fool. Not only did he fail to teach Catherine a lesson, but he also got slapped himself.

How stupid!

Now that Catherine was showing her edge, it wasn’t the time for Liana to confront her directly.

Liana decided to stay put. She was always good at reading the situation and knew her mother would not let Catherine off the hook. She could do nothing now but wait for her mother to take action.

A sound came from behind, and everyone turned their heads in unison. Catherine also turned back to take a look.

It turned out that Donna and her husband had arrived. Today was her seventieth birthday, and she entered the hall in a festive red traditional dress, looking energetic. Everyone stood up and happily wished Donna a happy birthday, their faces filled with smiles.

The two elders walked towards the main table, where the close relatives, including Korbin and the others, were seated.

After the two elders approached, their gazes fell on Catherine. Donna suddenly asked, “You’re Catherine Swann, aren’t you?”

Chapter 186 I Slapped Him Indeed

Donna was 70 years old now, but she didn’t look like a 70-year-old at all. There was no wrinkle on her fair and smooth skin. She looked like she was in her 50s, indicating that she must have spent quite some effort on skincare.

Audrey was worried that Catherine might be too shy to deal with this kind of occasion. So, she took Catherine to Donna and said with a smile, Grandpa, Grandma, you’re right. This

is Catherine, my sister!”

Then, she tugged at Catherine’s hand to signal the latter to say hi. Catherine said cooperatively, ” Grandpa, Grandma!”

Her voice was cold and aloof. Donna nodded with a smile on her face. “Good. Good thing that all your family are here!”

Everyone looked at Donna’s loving face and started to flatter her again. Only Catherine noticed that Donna’s smile didn’t touch her eyes at all.

And Liana, who always watched over others’ shoulders, would only lower her head and act like a good girl in front of the seniors.

“Grandpa, Grandma, I’ve been busy with my schoolwork lately, so I didn’t come to visit you often. Please don’t be mad at me!”

Donna stared at Liana affectionately with an overjoyed expression. “What a sweetheart! You have a lot of academic work to do. Of course, I won’t blame you. Your thought is the only thing that matters.

Before Liana could respond, Johnathan came over here. Compared with Liana’s obedience, Johnathan was a lot more perfunctory, just like a spoiled kid.

He looked at his grandparents in a low spirit and said casually, “Grandpa, Grandma!”

Yet, such a simple greeting just made Donna burst with joy. She broke into a beaming smile. It looked like she loved Johnathan to the core.

“Johnathan, my good boy. I haven’t seen you for quite a while. Why didn’t you come to visit me? Let me take a look at you carefully.”

Faced with Donna’s warm concerns, Johnathan was a bit grumpy, just like an unruly kid. Liana stayed aside with a composed look, but her clenched hands hanging by her sides just gave away her real feelings.

If anyone looked carefully, they would find how angry Liana was now. Catherine stood aside and looked at the scene dismissively. There was a profound look of mockery in her beautiful eyes.

It turned out that Liana wasn’t taken as seriously by the Swanns as she imagined. She was merely a bit more favored than Audrey. Johnathan was still the most loved child in the Swanns.

Johnathan darted a glance at Rachael in secret. This time, it was smart of him to turn to his mother for help. Seeing Rachael nod at him, he showed Donna his red and swollen cheek.

Just now, Donna didn’t notice Johnathan’s face. Now that he deliberately showed it to her, she immediately saw his cheek.

Instantly, she widened her eyes in shock. “Oh, my goodness. My dear, what’s wrong with your face? Who dared to beat you?” she growled.

Her loud voice just drew everyone’s attention. Audrey also noticed that. Having shot a glance over, she asked Catherine in confusion, “Kathy, did you slap him hard just now? Why does his cheek look so red and swollen? And the marks of fingers are so obvious.”

Catherine turned her head and took a look. With her eyes slightly hardening, she snorted. “Hmph. Is this all he has got?”

Somehow, Audrey felt that Catherine meant more than what she said.

“Kathy, what do you mean? Don’t tell me Johnathan slapped himself to make it look worse. Is he so crazy?”

Sometimes, Audrey didn’t know what to do with her brother. She had such a guess because she believed Johnathan might really do this kind of thing. Catherine didn’t give Audrey an answer directly. Instead, she replied in a steely voice, “You’ll know later!”

Johnathan was always trying to find a way to get revenge for himself. Now, he finally had the chance. He would never let it slip through his fingers.

Johnathan replaced his arrogant look with a pitiful and helpless expression, acting like a child who had just been hurt. He said to Donna, “I misspoke just now. Catherine heard that and then slapped me out of anger.”

Meanwhile, a relative who was on good terms with Rachael immediately chimed in. She just complained a lot about Catherine. According to her description, Catherine was like a mean girl who had done many evil deeds.

Donna shivered in a fury and thumped the table. “Just because of a few words, she beat you so hard? What kind of sister is she? I must ask her for an explanation.”

Donna angrily pointed at Catherine and said coldly, “Catherine, come here!” Catherine walked to Donna as told and then stood there lazily with her hands in her pockets.

She looked at everyone with a calm expression. If one was careful enough, he might find the chilling cold in her eyes. Donna was displeased to see Catherine’s attitude, but she didn’t show it.

Today was her birthday party. She would inevitably become a laughingstock if she lashed out at a junior in front of so many people. People would accuse her of not being amiable and forgiving enough.

Besides, Catherine was taken to the countryside when she was little. If Donna showed her detestation of Catherine from the very beginning, it would easily arouse suspicion.

She tried to look at Catherine composedly and not that seriously. Catherine, don’t worry. I won’t be biased to anyone. Tell me, did you slap Johnathan? If you say you didn’t, I’ll trust you anyway.”

She believed that Catherine wouldn’t dare to lie in plain sight. If Catherine did, Donna would definitely disclose the truth, making it easier for her to stand up for Johnathan. Catherine nodded at Donna without hesitation. “Yes, I slapped him indeed!”

As Catherine admitted it arrogantly, Johnathan got excited as if having the goods on her and yelled, “Grandma, see? She is so arrogant. She shows no respect for you at all.”

Johnathan wanted to call Catherine the bane, but after dealing with her a few times, he had learned something.

Catherine even dared to beat him in front of their parents. Who knew whether she would beat him again in front of their grandparents?

He didn’t want to take risks, so he didn’t refer to her that way. Seeing Johnathan’s anxious face, Donna slightly frowned with a disapproving look.

Yet, after all, he was her dear grandson. She didn’t scold him, though she knew his behavior was inappropriate. Instead, she said in a comforting tone, Johnny, no hurry. I’ll do you justice when I figure out what actually happened.”

Chapter 187 Can’t You Play Another Trick

Johnathan didn’t understand. The whole thing was so clear. Catherine also had admitted it. She should just be punished. He couldn’t understand what on earth others were thinking.

Seeing that Johnathan was about to sabotage their plan, Rachael tugged at his sleeve secretly. Johnathan had to restrain himself reluctantly, waiting for Donna to do him justice.

Donna looked at Catherine with a grave face. “Since you admitted hitting Johnathan, you were wrong then. Johnathan is your brother. Isn’t it inappropriate for you to treat him this way?”

Then, her fierce eyes exuded an air of disgruntlement. “You’re a poor child anyway. You were not properly raised in the countryside before. Vicente took you back out of kindness. I also heard that he had handed the Swanns’ assets to you to make it up to you, right?”

Catherine didn’t make any response. Donna just continued talking. “Vicente loved you. I can get it, but this isn’t good for you!”

What she said was nothing but criticism of Catherine. Even Audrey couldn’t stand it after hearing that. “Grandma…”

Donna heard her voice and immediately raised her head to dart a steely glance at Audrey. “Audrey, I heard you didn’t live at home these two years. Did you forget how to behave yourself, too?”

Audrey stiffened, and her face turned pale at once. She didn’t expect Donna to disclose the fact that she had been expelled from the Swanns in public.

Audrey stood still in silence. No one noticed that Catherine’s poker face had hardened at that moment. She grabbed Audrey’s hand and pulled the latter behind.

Her action didn’t escape Donna’s eyes. It was just that Donna didn’t care about it. Donna used to be a teacher. In her eyes, these two girls were relatively easy to deal with.

She didn’t know why Rachael would lose to them and return to turn to her for help. Rachael even begged Enzo to get Adrien Lang, her brother, to deal with Catherine.

Donna believed she could handle Catherine easily. There was no need to get Adrien involved. Donna gave an amiable smile, her eyes filled with gloominess. “Korbin, come here. I have something to tell you today.

Korbin came over and replied to Donna rather respectfully, “Mom, please say it!”

Donna was satisfied with Korbin’s obedience and nodded approvingly. ‘ Yeah!”

“Korbin, I know you’re busy and have no time to handle family affairs. It’s also filial of you to follow your father’s last will. But in my eyes, Vicente merely wanted to make it up to Catherine this way. She’s too young to have so many fortunes. It’s actually bad for her. Look what she has just done. She has slapped her brother in public. Who knows what else she will do in the future?

“I may as well decide for you today. I suggest transferring all of Catherine’s shares to you. She’s your daughter. She will have a bright future ahead. She doesn’t need to carry such a heavy burden at this young age.”

After saying that, Donna also asked for Korbin’s opinion.

“Korbin, what do you think?”

Korbin put on a helpless look. “I failed to look after my family well. I’ll take your advice then!” “Great!” Donna said smilingly. She loved it when she got to be the boss.

After getting the response from Korbin, Donna shifted her gaze to Catherine. Her loving eyes had turned extremely stern and even a bit intimidating.

“Catherine, do you agree to my proposal? Don’t worry about the money. You’re the daughter of the Swanns. The wealth you can have is definitely beyond your imagination. The Swann Corporation is such a big company. And you don’t know how to run a business at all. You’d better return them to your father. He can create more fortune for you and your siblings so that your future can be secured!”

“Good girl, listen to me. I’m doing this for your own good.”

It was then that Catherine realized why they made her come to the Langs to celebrate Donna’s birthday. It turned out that they just wanted to take back the shares of the Swann Corporation from her.

This was so ridiculous!

Donna must have treated Catherine as an ignorant and gullible girl. Korbin played the same trick on her when she just came back to the Swanns.

Now, Donna was doing it again. These people had no creativity at all. Catherine strode aside, sat down, and crossed her legs lazily, giving off an arrogant and dominant air.

She slightly raised her head to look at Donna with arched brows. A hint of piercing cold flashed across her eyes. She said briefly in a steely voice, “No way!

“Ask the one who gave me the shares to take them back!”

Catherine glanced at all the people present with a faint smile. Donna was stunned. It seemed that she never expected Catherine to defy her boldly in public.

After thinking through what Donna had just said, Donna knitted her brows and glared at her with a gloomy expression.

“Nonsense. Your grandpa is already gone. How can he ask for the shares back from you?” Catherine nodded approvingly. “You’re right. Since he’s gone, no one will take the Swanns’ assets from me!”

“You…” Donna flew into a rage and stood up to stare at her angrily, her eyes full of wrath. “Everybody take a look at this granddaughter of mine. How can she treat her grandma this way?”

As Donna flared up, everyone pointed fingers at Catherine. All of a sudden, Catherine became the target of criticism as if she was an unforgivable sinner. Now that the soft approach couldn’t work, Donna decided to play it hard and then looked at Enzo madly.

“Enzo, you’ve seen what happened. Catherine has been improperly raised in the countryside. I don’t know what to do with her. Look how she treats us. No wonder she dared to beat Johnny so hard.

“If this goes on, she will cause even bigger trouble.”

Hearing that, Enzo’s face turned dark. He usually wouldn’t interfere with this kind of trifle. Now, as it appeared, he believed he had to step in.

Catherine was sitting there leisurely, not caring about other people’s criticism. In her eyes, these people spent so much effort making her attend the party.

They couldn’t give up easily. So, the Langs must have a backup plan. Before she could think it over, the Langs’ plan B showed up.

Chapter 188 This Is Uncle Adrien

The sudden sound drew the attention of all.

“What are you doing here?”

Donna and Enzo both raised their heads. Upon seeing who it was, they felt quite elated. Noticing everyone’s expressions, Catherine also darted a glance back casually.

With the sound of the leather shoes hitting the ground, a middle-aged man walked to them slowly. The man walked with his back straight and a grave expression. He glanced across all sharply, exuding a majestic air, Audrey introduced Catherine to Adrien considerately, saying in a low voice, Kathy, this is Uncle Adrien, as well as the most accomplished man in the Langs. He’s currently an officer. He’s quite nice, except he looks a bit stern because he has to train the soldiers. Don’t be afraid of him. Okay?”

How could Catherine be afraid? Hmph, sometimes, Catherine really couldn’t understand Audrey’s thoughts.

Yet, Catherine did recognize that Adrien could do martial arts. He was an officer who trained troops, as Audrey said, rather than an office clerk.

Upon entering the house, out of his habitual vigilance, Adrien felt a cold faze on him. He looked in the direction of the gaze only to see that a strange girl was sitting there. The girl was sitting in an imposing manner. She was different from the nieces he had seen at times.

How she sat on the chair showed that she was rather casual now. According to her gorgeous face, Adrien had figured out her identity more or less.

People all said that Liana, the third daughter of the Swanns, was the most beautiful one, who fully inherited the good appearance of Rachael, the previous top beauty in Casier.

Now, as it appeared, that was not true at all. Liana’s beauty was nothing at all compared with Catherine’s.

Catherine resembled Rachael more in appearance and contained all the merits of the Swanns’ appearance. She was tremendously stunning.

Donna and Enzo were rather happy about Adrien’s appearance. Donna went forward to receive this foster son of hers. “Adrien, you’re busy with work. You’ve just got promoted. I know you must be even busier. You shouldn’t have to come yourself. I’ve got your present. I really appreciate the thought! That bracelet is so nice. I love it so much. You’re so considerate!”

She was clearly showing off, but she deliberately acted as if she was having a small talk.

Admittedly, she was an expert at bragging. With a few words, she successfully announced that Adrien had been promoted again.

Meanwhile, she humbly bragged about how filial Adrien was to her to show their close ties. She had given the fullest play to the art of humblebrag.

Adrien knew Donna was showing off, but he still chimed in cooperatively, 11 Mom, today is your 70th birthday. No matter how busy I am, I must show concern for you anyway. This is my obligation as a son. It’s nothing worth mentioning.”

He acted like he was really close to Donna. Yet, he didn’t mention that Donna had called him half a month ago. She even called him three times a day at the advent of her birthday, worried that he might be unable to attend the party for a temporary emergency.

Adrien was not the birth son of Donna and Enzo. In fact, he was the son of Enzo’s friend and Donna’s student since he was little.

Enzo’s friend and his wife died in an accident. As a result, Adrien was adopted by the Langs and became the second son of this family.

No one expected that this orphan would have been so accomplished. Now, Adrien had become the second target the Langs boasted about. Given the favor the Langs had done for him, Adrien would turn a blind eye to many things they did.

Donna and Enzo were old. It was understandable that they liked to brag. Getting Adrien’s cooperative response, Donna smiled even more merrily. Her sharp eyes were full of satisfaction.

Then, she beckoned to the several grandchildren aside. “You must haven’t seen Adrien for a while. Come and say hi. He is busy and barely stays at home. Take the occasion to bond with him more.”

Since Adrien had great power, even Liana and Johnathan Swann had to show him respect and went forward to talk with him.

Audrey couldn’t squeeze into them, so she stayed with Catherine aside. Unexpectedly, Adrien, who was always distant from others and rarely communicated with people, took notice of Catherine.

“This is…”

Everyone followed Adrien’s gaze and found that he was referring to Catherine. The smile on Donna’s face became stiff at once. Her expression became not that natural either.

“Adrien, this is Catherine, your sister’s second daughter. She grew up in the countryside of Casier. She’s unruly. No need to pay too much attention to her.”

Donna’s introduction implied that Catherine was merely a country girl, and Adrien didn’t have to care too much about her.

Audrey couldn’t stand it anymore. Even though she knew she might piss off Donna, she still couldn’t help standing up for Catherine.

This was her sister. She wouldn’t allow anyone to bully Catherine.

“Uncle Adrien, this is my sister, Catherine. She is a bit timid. As she has been back not for long, she isn’t used to talking with strangers. Please don’t blame her.”

Then, she hinted at Catherine and said,

“Kathy, this is Uncle Adrien.”

Catherine gave a snort inwardly. She thought, “He’s clearly a scheming guy. Isn’t he tired of being so affected?”

Catherine disliked Adrien a bit because she believed he must have known who she was but pretended he didn’t. Perhaps he didn’t before, but he must have guessed it upon entering this place. Otherwise, he wouldn’t keep an eye on her behaviors out of the corner of his eyes.

Others might not know that, but Catherine was aware of it. For the sake of Audrey, Catherine still said aloofly, “Hi, Uncle Adrien!”

Seeing Catherine’s cold face with the hint of mockery at the corner of her eye, Adrien felt quite intrigued.

Compared with the juniors who flattered on the surface yet spoke ill of him secretly, he liked Catherine even more. And he could recognize that Catherine had an unusual temperament, a bit fierce and even arrogant.

Although he didn’t know what on earth Catherine had experienced, he could be sure that she was like a fierce animal rather than a sheep. And it was the animal who played dumb on the surface and yet acted ruthlessly, in fact.

“Hi!” Adrien replied casually. It seemed that he didn’t take her seriously. However, this kind of attitude was usual in others’ eyes.

After all, how could a big shot like Adrien care about Catherine? He merely asked a few words about her, given the seeming kinship.

Chapter 189 She’s Right

In Rachael’s eyes, Adrien asking about Catherine all of a sudden must be a result of Donna’s saying something in advance.

She had told Donna about this before she came back to the Langs’. With a smile on her face, she went forward and settled her smiling gaze on Adrien.

“Adrien, great thing that you came today. I have a favor to ask of you.”

Adrien stared at her with a casual expression. “We’re family. No need to stand on ceremony.”

Rachael gave a faint smile and then turned to look at Catherine. Her soft eyes immediately turned steely when they were fixed on Catherine. She was actually displeased but still acted as if she was amiable and helpless.

“You know, Catherine is quite a concern to me. She didn’t grow up by my side. When she lived in the countryside, she learned some martial arts. After coming back, she just doesn’t take anyone seriously. She can’t stand any criticism from anyone. Otherwise, she would just flare up like a bomb.

“Well, I really don’t know how to discipline her. It is said that one can be trained in the army. So, I’m wondering if you can do me a favor and get her into the army for a few years.”

Normally, if a boy was too mischievous and behaved badly with poor academic performance, his family would send him into the army. In this way, the boy might be able to pick up good habits and restrain himself.

Yet, this approach was usually applied to boys. It was the first time that someone would actually mean to send her daughter into the army at such a young age. The other people all realized Catherine’s status in the Swanns upon hearing that.

As the topic of discussion, Catherine was still sitting there with no regard to the discussion, as if she had nothing to do with what her mother was saying.

It turned out that seizing her shares was the first move of Rachael and the others, and the second move was to send her away.

In the army, absolute obedience was the rule. Once she joined the army, it wouldn’t be easy for her to get out. However, even if the Swanns worked with the Langs, they still wouldn’t make it.

Noticing that Catherine still remained composed, Audrey was really worried if Catherine knew the severity of this matter.

As Adrien was about to speak, Audrey finally couldn’t help herself and said, To the army? No way! Kathy is still studying at school. She’ll have to take the SAT in a few months. Her academic performance is not bad. We can’t hold her up.”

Audrey didn’t know how Catherine’s academic performance was. She was simply worried that Catherine would suffer a lot in the army.

Upon hearing Audrey’s words, the Swanns and Donna all looked at her with disgruntlement. Their eyes were really fierce. Rachael just snapped, “Audrey was somewhat well-behaved before.

Nevertheless, after Catherine came back, they spent some time together. Now, Audrey has become so bad- mannered. It’s my failure that my daughters become what they are now.” After saying that, she turned around and emphasized this to Adrien again.

“Adrien, you must help me with this! If this goes on, I’m worried that my daughters will be all ruined.”

She acted like a helpless mother. Getting called in public, Audrey looked pale instantly. She knew that Rachael disliked her but never expected that Rachael would criticize her ruthlessly in plain sight.

Hearing that, Catherine coldly glanced at Rachael, her eyes with grave gloominess. No one noticed that Catherine’s aura had turned cold at once.

Hearing that, Adrien raised his head to look at Catherine. His eyes were profoundly solemn as if he was about to lecture a junior.

“Are you still studying? How is your academic performance? Is it satisfactory?” Catherine arched her brows and took a look at him. Before she could reply, Liana stepped forward.

“Catherine can’t adapt herself to the school at all. She falls asleep almost in every class. The final bell is like her alarm clock. As the bell rings, she will wake up and go home with her bag!”

What she hoped for most now was that Catherine could go away and had better be sent into the army. This way, Catherine wouldn’t cause trouble for them anymore.

Then, the Swanns could also get back on track and Liana could be the lady of Swanns happily again. Liana pointed that out in a teasing tone with a smile on her face, just like an innocent girl.

The other people all looked at Catherine with sarcasm. Some of them even couldn’t help laughing with a disdainful expression.

Catherine placed her chin on her hand and her elbow on the armrest. With her eyes slightly narrowed, she cracked a sinister smile and watched Liana.

After Liana finished speaking, Adrien shifted his gaze to Catherine, his eyes intense and piercing. His voice was husky but not majestic, with a hidden hint of teasing.

“Oh yeah? Catherine, is what your sister said true?”

As she was mentioned, Catherine raised her head slowly and took a look at Liana. Liana subconsciously looked away, not daring to meet Catherine’s eyes.

Every time she looked into Catherine’s eyes, she would feel frightened. She didn’t expect Adrien would ask again. She was afraid that Catherine would disclose her real academic performance. Then, she would be totally embarrassed.

Catherine slept in class every day, but she still had better grades than Liana. If this got out, it would make Liana so useless. Liana had a guilty conscience! After all, she didn’t reveal the whole truth. Catherine smiled coldly and unconcernedly.

“She’s right!”

She directly admitted that Liana was right. After all, Liana didn’t lie. Catherine did sleep in class every day and still came top in class. Catherine’s acknowledgment made Liana let out a sigh of relief. Rachael also felt a surge of wild joy.

Rachael couldn’t wait to make Catherine look even worse. “Adrien, as you can see, I really can’t discipline her, given her attitude. If possible, please send her to the army.”

Adrien took a meaningful look at her and then slowly said, “Catherine is still young. She’s about to take the SAT. At her age, it’s better to take the SAT. Since she has spent so many years at school, there’s no need to give up at this moment.”

Seeing that her plan was about to fail, Rachael felt anxious. She kept winking at Donna, signaling Donna to help. Donna knew Adrien well. She was aware that Adrien only cared about what Enzo said.

After receiving the hint, Enzo took a look at Catherine. He was rather dissatisfied with what she had done. The Langs wouldn’t allow such a country girl to wreck the family’s reputation.

He cleared his throat and showed his superior position as the head of the family. Adrien hastened to say respectfully,” Father, what’s the matter?”

Chapter 190 Remove Your Makeup

Sitting straight there, Enzo stared sternly at Adrien. “Adrien, Catherine has been rarely educated and extremely unruly. I think you’d better send her into the army!”

Donna also chimed in with a sad expression, “Yeah, today, when she just got here, she slapped Johnathan so hard just because he said a few words.” Adrien sized up Catherine with intrigue again and thought, “She’s quite something.”

She had been back for a while only, but she just made the Langs and the Swanns work together to deal with her.

Clearly, she was really not ordinary. Catherine knew Adrien was scrutinizing her, but she didn’t care at all. She just sat there lazily.

Adrien was a bit surprised to see that she looked composed. She could maintain composure at such a young age. It looked like she couldn’t be an ordinary girl.

Thinking of the Langs’ and the Swanns ‘attitudes toward Catherine, Adrien couldn’t help being dismissive of them. The Langs were always self-centered and haughty. He knew this better than anyone. Yet, he didn’t expect Korbin to be like this too.

It was really ignorant of them to choose the inferior daughter over the actually outstanding one. While others were all criticizing Catherine, Johnathan deliberately showed his injured face, clearly letting everyone know that Catherine had slapped him hard.

At that moment, he didn’t care about his face or not. He would do whatever he could to send Catherine away and keep the Swanns’ assets. The relatives were all pointing fingers at Catherine. They looked like they wished to send Catherine away.

Adrien cast a look at Johnathan and took a tumble. However, he pretended that he knew nothing and sized up Catherine, waiting for her to give a reply.

Originally, Catherine just wanted to ignore these people. She only showed concern for those she cared about. As for other people, they had nothing to do with her.

Yet, Audrey was shivering as she was worried about her. So, Catherine decided to give these people a slap in the face again.

She raised her hand and beckoned to Johnathan. Her dark eyes were as cold and stern as the abyss, making Johnathan tremble all over.

Johnathan subconsciously stepped back. He had been beaten by Catherine before. He was afraid he would be beaten again. He wouldn’t be that silly!

“Catherine, do you think I’m a fool? Why would I go over there because you beckoned to me? What if I go over there and you beat me? Look! The marks of your fingers haven’t faded away yet.”

Catherine stared at him and snorted, 11 Are you afraid that I might hit you, or do you have a guilty conscience?”

“I…” Johnathan couldn’t answer.

Rachael took the opportunity to push him, signaling him to go forward. If Catherine still hit Johnathan on this occasion, people would all know that she was arrogant and unreasonable.

Even if they did anything against her, it would be perfectly justifiable. And Rachael didn’t believe that Catherine could beat Johnathan again. Having received Rachael’s hint, Johnathan went to Catherine reluctantly.

He squinted at Catherine and said with deep disgruntlement, “Just say it. Why did you ask me to come over here?”

Everyone fixed their eyes on the two of them. They were also curious about what on earth Catherine wanted to do. Unexpectedly, Catherine made a move. She stood up abruptly before Adrien could see clearly what had just happened.

Johnathan subconsciously started to scream with his eyes closed. Catherine seized his neck, and he thought that he was about to be throttled by her.

Having seen clearly what Catherine was doing, Adrien, who was going to take action, stopped. A few seconds later, Catherine also stopped and moved her hand away from Johnathan’s face quickly.

Meanwhile, she showed the makeup remover wipe in her hand to Audrey. She gave a sinister smile that contained an air of arrogance.

“I’ve just tested your makeup remover wipe. It worked really well!”

Catherine had thrown the dirty makeup remover wipe to the ground. Yet, her toss was like a slap in Rachael’s face, which made Rachael a total disgrace.

Johnathan came around and found that Catherine had removed the makeup from his face rather than hit him. In a hurry, he tried to cover his face. However, it was already in vain. After all, everybody had seen what happened.

Due to the good genes of the Swanns, every descendant of the Swanns was extremely fair-skinned, including Johnathan. Audrey came around and couldn’t help stepping forward to defend Catherine.

“Johnathan, you brat! You’re so mischievous. How can you do the makeup to frame Catherine? Don’t you know she is your sister?”

Johnathan looked so embarrassed and really wanted to flare up, but he was suppressed by Rachael forcibly. Korbin darted a glance at Rachael. Unexpectedly, she couldn’t even do that well.

Rachael was also innocent. Initially, she wanted to give Johnathan two slaps to make things worse so that she could make Catherine a scapegoat and show everyone how wicked she was.

Yet, Johnathan wasn’t okay with that. He was afraid of pain and refused to agree by all means. Rachael always treated Johnathan as the apple of her eye. How could she let her son suffer like that?

In the end, she could only feign the injury by putting makeup on his face. To her astonishment, Catherine had such a sharp eye.

Catherine not only saw that through but also disclosed it. Audrey was getting more and more unruly, who always set against her.

After disclosing Johnathan, Catherine turned her head to look at Adrien. Their eyes met. Catherine’s eyes were provocative and arrogant.

The Langs and the others all wanted Adrien to interfere with this. Well, she would let him deal with it then. Catherine had laid bare the truth. Now, she was waiting for his response.

Adrien was amused by Catherine’s reaction inwardly. He didn’t expect her to shift the target to him. When Catherine acted, he had felt something unusual. She was a lot more impressive than his imagination.

She acted unusually fast just now. Undoubtedly, she must have been professionally trained. This trip back to the Langs’ was indeed worth it.

After all, he found this interesting thing. Since Catherine wanted him to meddle in this, he would do it then. Adrien darted a glance at Johnathan. Instantly, the latter hastened to lower his head in fright, not daring to look at Adrien.

He looked at the Langs with a grave expression. “Dad, Mom, the army is indeed a good place, for one can be well trained physically and mentally there. “But I think the one to be sent into the army shouldn’t be Catherine but Johnathan!”

Instantly, Johnathan and the Langs were all flustered.