Ch. 431..440

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 431-Jonah frowned, disapproving of how skintight her outfit was. “Are you going out for sports this late in the evening?” “Yeah. I’m in a swell mood, Jonah. I have a kayak waiting for me in the river behind the house right this second!” Alyssa grinned.

“It’s so dark out already. What if you fall into the water? You’re not the best swimmer.” Jonah pinched her waist. “And it’s freezing out here, Alyssa. What if you get a cold?” He then turned to Sean, accusing, “What have you been doing? Why haven’t you tried talking some sense into her?” “My deepest apologies, Mr. Jonah!” Sean bowed profusely.

“Don’t blame him, Jonah. He tried stopping me, but you know as well as I do, no one can stop me.” The siblings went to sit on the couch, Alyssa resting on her brother’s shoulder.

“MINT’s editor-in-chief just called me to confirm the auction’s flow. Thank you so much for helping me get them onboard, Jonah.” MINT magazine’s editor-in-chief was fashionista and designer Yves Vanderbilt, a demoness in human. skin who could make or break nearly all brands, designs, and individuals in the field with just one look.

It was this woman who had personally called Alyssa earlier. Only God knew how excited she had been!

“I’m just happy that you’re happy, Lyse.” Jonah tapped her nose. “I didn’t want know you like filling your time with that kind of thing.” “Tsk. I’m not that fragile. I’ve been eating and sleeping really well these days without a care in the world,” Alyssa cooed, leaning against her brother.

Sean gnawed on his lip. His heart was in his mouth as he watched Alyssa act all cute. She was only ever like this in front of Jonah. It really was quite adorable.

Obviously, Sean wasn’t going to miss out.

“Not a care in the world? How do you explain these?” Jonah prodded the darkened rings under her eyes.

“That’s because of the auction… Wait, you never told me how you know Yves.

You must be really good friends if she was willing to let me handle this event,” Alyssa said, “MINT has never held a charity event in Solana City before!” “We’re not close.” Jonah’s tone was flat.

“Huh? Then w-” “She has had a crush on me for ten years.” “What?” Alyssa and Sean cried at the same time.

Jonah continued flatly, “I’ve rejected her countless times, but she remains devoted. I can’t do anything.

about it, so yeah.” Yves was at least 50 years old. Alyssa was taken aback to discover that Yves had a crush on her brother, who was two decades her junior.

“That is so sad.” Alyssa sighed.

Sean nodded. “What pressure it must be to have an admirer so much older than you.” “Hey, I was talking about Yves! She’s the one I feel sad for!” Alyssa cried. “Age isn’t an issue. Jonah is the issue here! She’s in love with the worst possible individual-a priest!” Both Jonah and Sean were rendered speechless by Alyssa.

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 432-The night of the charity auction at KS World Hotel did not disappoint.

Neither KS Group nor MINT had put much effort into promoting the event. But the local news media and netizens were still all over it like bees to honey, given it was in the name of charity.

MINT was an Internationally renowned magazine, after all. Anyone would kill to be featured, even an international celebrity.

The event was filled with famous superstars that evening, from actors to singers to models. The hotel security was in full action, keeping the peace in and outside the venue.

The guests cooperated as well, making sure to quickly make their way inside the hotel once they’d greeted their fans.

When a limousine drove up to the hotel entrance, the commotion increased.

Out came Sophia and Betty, dressed like sequined peacocks in elegant gowns.

Unlike the other wealthy heiresses who arrived via the back entrance or the VIP lane, they chose to face the hundreds of flashing camera lights centered on the red carpet.

They behaved as though they were vampires, vanishing from existence the moment someone ceased taking photographs of them.

“Look, isn’t that Liana Gardner’s aunt?” someone yelled over the commotion.

Sophia’s face contorted. She had spent decades shrugging off titles like “outdated actress” and “gold- digging mistress” to establish herself as the revered Madam Sophia Kirkman, wife of Javier Beckett, CEO of Beckett Group.

But all that effort had gone to waste because of her good-for-nothing niece, Liana!

“It really is her!” “Wasn’t she the one who got taken in for money laundering?” “Yeah! She was released later, though. Tsk. Who knew Solana City would have such a devious character.” “Does she think we’ve lost our memory? She has some balls to still show her face in person here. Javier Beckett should really keep a tight leash on her.” “Every time I look at her, I’m reminded of how she reprimanded Liana Gardner on her birthday celebration.

followed by Liana’s outburst.” “Hahahah! She looked so dumbfounded then!” Sophia’s face was red now. If it weren’t for Betty’s help, she might never have been able to walk into the hotel.

She thought the public would have forgotten about that by now.

Regrettably, certain humiliations cut so deep that they appeared etched onto one’s countenance, instantly reminding anyone of the incidents.

Her meticulously guarded self-esteem had been shattered, all thanks to that troublesome Liana.

The two women quickly walked into the hotel, faces ashen.

“Maybe you should keep a low profile from now on, Mom,” Betty murmured, “Look. People are all making fun of you. And you’re dragging me into it too. It’s really embarra-” “Are you accusing me of embarrassing you, Betty Beckett?” Sophia cried, pinching her daughter’s arm.

Sophia continued, “I didn’t bat a single eyelash when I married your father, not even when everyone called me names and insulted me endlessly.

“Yet now you find me embarrassing? If I didn’t cling onto Javier all the years ago, you wouldn’t have enjoyed such a wonderful life!”

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 433-Betty gripped her arm, which now sported a light bruise, and followed her mother into the venue away from the crowd.

Even though her mother had successfully won her father over all those years ago, Betty had never seen. her more than a prudish, unruly woman who could never make it to the same level as those in her circle.

Sophia fell far short of the graceful stature of women like Mandy Lovelace from the Taylor family or Penelope Miller, Zoe’s mother.

That proved to be a source of misfortune for Betty. After all, one couldn’t select their birth circumstances.

This event had two parts-a cocktail party and the charity auction itself.

Numerous A-list stars filled the party, and it seemed as if half of the celebrity circle was present tonight.

In her role as the general manager of the KS World Hotel and as the leader of the organizing team for the charity event, Alyssa found herself inevitably in the spotlight for interviews with the reporters.

Poised and composed, she confidently addressed questions from the cameras and microphones with ease.

Berenike Hotel for her wedding, is the event you’re currently organizing for MINT perceived as a strategic move to rival them?” “I can see why you might think that, especially considering we’re direct competitors with the Berenike Hotel,” Alyssa replied with a smile.

She continued, “However, it’s worth noting that MINT specifically chose us to host this event on their behalf. It’s simply a matter of coincidence.” What prompted the sudden change of heart? Was there a specific reason behind this decision?” “I’m afraid I can disclose nothing. This pertains to our hotel’s confidential information.” Alyssa’s eyes took on a chilling glint in response to that question. She felt that something about that reporter seemed off. He might have been deliberately placed here for a specific reason.

Meanwhile, Zoe was drinking her champagne while enjoying the sight of Alyssa being bombarded by the She was the one who had sent that nosy reporter in.

Though he wouldn’t make much difference, he would still get on Alyssa’s nerves and torture her while she was out in public.

Just then, Sophia and Betty walked over. Betty was no longer timid. This time, she strode as if she owned.

the place. She felt like the victor, after all.

“You are correct. It’s exactly because of this,” Alyssa answered, taking on a serious tone.

Zoe’s brows furrowed in response. She hadn’t anticipated Alyssa’s straightforward response. Instead, she had expected excuses or, at the very least, some sign of embarrassment.

She had no idea what to expect next.

“Do give Ms. Alyssa a break. She’s already busy enough dealing with the aftermath of her hotel’s contract breach,” Betty said, a grin on her face.

She added, “Don’t give up now. I’m sure you’ll do your best next time. We’ll be sure to take your mistakes in stride, too, and ensure we fulfill our end of the contract.”

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 434-Betty’s words attracted some curious passersby, most in awe at how much Betty was insinuating in those few words.

Firstly, she asserted that KS World Hotel was responsible for this mistake, thus Secondly, she claimed that Alyssa had yet to resolve the aftermath of said mistake and was using MINT’s charity auction to tide things over.

Thirdly, she accused Alyssa of being an irresponsible general manager unsuitable for her role. She claimed that Alyssa couldn’t meet customers’ needs and couldn’t maintain confidentiality.

far better than KS World in all these aspects.

The reporters erupted into yet another flurry of questions like fish that had been tossed bait.

Alyssa had anticipated that Betty would do this already, attacking her and the hotel’s reputation on such an important evening.

She looked at Sophia and Betty’s extravagant makeup, feeling that the two of them resembled clowns at this moment.

dazzling all who had eyes on them.

elbow. “I think you should reconsider working with Alyssa Taylor.” “Because her brother is an intelligent, powerful, and devastatingly handsome man. I’m not bluffing at all. Jonah Taylor is the hottest man I have ever met in my life.” Yves’ eyes glowed when she said that.

Then, she added, “He’s the love of my life.” “I don’t see how that’s related to why I should work together with Alyssa Taylor again.” Yves scowled, then prodded her friend again, this time gently saying, “Come on, can’t you give my ‘sister-in -law’ a chance, for my sake?” blackmailing.

Meanwhile, Jasper was on the second-floor landing, quietly watching the event unfold as he leaned His gaze finally fell back on Alyssa. He watched her calmly answer all the reporters’ questions. A smile graced his face. He knew she wouldn’t give up so easily.

Alyssa was the sort of individual whose resolve to fight grew stronger with each challenge she encountered.

“Mr. Jasper, those mutts who call themselves reporters are bound to tarnish Madam’s reputation if we don’t do something!” Xavier exclaimed, glancing worriedly downstairs. “Can we, please?” “No.” Jasper shook his head. “I can’t come to her defense even if her reputation is actually in danger. I am a Beckett.

“Standing out now will only complicate things further. I’m sure she already has plans on what to do next.” Xavier nodded solemnly, choosing to trust in Alyssa. It was best not to get in her way.

More importantly, he didn’t want Jasper to worsen his standing with her, which was likely to occur if he intervened at this moment.

“Xavier, I need you to get two things done right away,” Jasper suddenly said, his tone dead serious.

“Yes, sir!”

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 435-Jasper began, “First, remove that nosy, lying, good-for-nothing reporter from this venue and the city. I want him gone for good.” “Yes, sir!” “Second, have Beckett Group’s PR department monitor any comments, statements, rumors, or gossip that could harm Alyssa and KS World Hotel’s reputation. Eradicate all of them at once.” “On it, sir!” Xavier then went to get those done, leaving Jasper where he was to continue gazing at Alyssa.

His gaze softened as he watched her determined expression.

He silently said, “No thanks needed. Dance as long as you please. I’ll take care of everything in the background for you.” “We are sorry to see you unable to work with Ms. Kingsley, Ms. Alyssa,” Sophia said gently, taking advantage of the situation.

She continued, “You’re only new to this line of work. You’re still young. You’re bound to make some mistakes.

“Never fear, though. You’ll learn from them. After all, who here hasn’t made a mistake when they were your age? The most important thing is that you learn from your lesson.” “Yeah. It really was my fault for letting the culprit get the better of us.” Alyssa smiled. “I’ll definitely be on my guard next time.” Sophia sneered internally.

One reporter asked, “Wait… Do you mean to say you had been set up?” “I have to take my leave now. The auction is about to begin.” Alyssa turned and left for the other venue, not answering the question.

She didn’t even look at Sophia and Betty again, making the two feel outraged rather than joyous at their victory.

“That fucking bitch. Does she think she can get herself out of this situation that easily? In her dreams!” Sophia growled as she glared at Alyssa, who was slowly fading into the distance.

“She has clearly given up. She didn’t even bother coming up with an excusel” Betty held her mother’s arm, she is at managing her hotel!” “Madam Sophia! Betty!” Zoe called out, finally walking out in her elegant peachcolored gown. “Good evening!” “Zoe!” Sophia went up to shake her hand, all smiles. “And here I thought you were absent!” board to work with the company is all thanks to Zoe here.” “Aw, shucks. It’s nothing.” Zoe giggled, waving her off.

“Thank you so much, dear,” said Sophia, her smile seemed layered.

Then, Sophia gently stroked Zoe’s hand and said, “If there’s ever anything we can be of service with, just let us know, and we’ll do our best to help you.”

 

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 436-The guests made their way to the next venue in the hotel for the charity auction.

Alyssa was quick to dodge the spotlight, making sure no reporters or paparazzi were on her tail. She went to take a breather out in an empty hallway.

“Ms. Alyssa!” Sean cried, coming up to her. “Are you alright?” “Of course I am. Those small fries were easy to placate,” Alyssa reassured him, then said, “But you really shouldn’t be here right now. You should be watching after the event flow at the venue.” “But… But I’m worried about you.” Sean’s voice was raspy when he continued, “Those reporters were purposely sent to ruin your reputation!” “That’s to be expected. The media aren’t going to praise and worship me just because I’m hosting an event for charity.” Alyssa was not the least bit perturbed.

She went on to say, “Plus, it makes sense that they would grill me. Technically, this mistake was caused by my slip-up, albeit some other more frivolous-looking peacocks took advantage.

“I still have no one else to blame by myself.” At the mention of “frivolous peacocks”, Sean instantly thought of Betty and her mother, Sophia.

“But I disagree with one part of what you said. Those reporters weren’t sent here to ruin me. They are here to help,” said Alyssa.

Alyssa leaned against the wall, fingers slowly tapping against her knuckles.

“We’ll let Betty bask in her glory a little longer.

“I love it when they set themselves high up in the air. It makes for an incredibly devastating crash to the ground.” Sean shivered, feeling like Alyssa resembled Winston a tad too much right now.

She was like a deadly.

rose, beautiful but riddled with poisonous thorns.

He soon excused himself to head back to help out at the auction venue.

Alyssa, meanwhile, was feeling particularly weak. She lay on a sofa in a nearby lounge, having only eaten breakfast the entire day and not a single drop of water.

She curled up, her stomach growling.

“Ugh… Hungry… Alyssa moaned, closing her eyes.

All of a sudden, there came the rich smell of chocolate.

Was she hallucinating? Alyssa curiously sniffed the air.

“Are you going to eat it?” came the cold yet magnetic voice.

Alyssa flinched and opened her eyes, meeting Jasper’s dark eyes. They always managed to look so intimidating.

Jasper was kneeling in front of her, holding a chocolate cupcake.

Alyssa wrapped her arms around her middle. Three years and Jasper had never once done something for her-all those years of giving him her all, crying, weeping, and hiding in the shadows.

Tears filled her eyes.

After a while, when Jasper noticed that Alyssa showed no sign of moving, he asked, “Aren’t you hungry?

Here, eat. It’s chocolate, your favorite. Don’t worry, I didn’t poison it.” “No.” Alyssa’s throat ached with an unexpressed sense of grievance.

“Mrs. Rosie told me about your stomach condition. You can’t go too long without eating.” “I said no!” Alyssa smacked the cake out of Jasper’s hands, making it fall flat on the floor.

Jasper’s gaze darkened as anger ignited in his chest. Disappointment washed over him like a bucket of ice, seeping into his every vein.

His heart lay on the floor, now in pieces.

“What is wrong with you, Alyssa Taylor?” Alyssa slowly sat up, no longer hungry. Rage and hatred fueled her being. “I hate you. It bothers me when you undertake actions you think will aid me without a discernible cause.

“News flash-they don’t. Do you realize how insulted and hurtful your actions are making me feel, Jasper Beckett?”

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 437-“What are you saying?” Jasper frowned, taken aback.

“Leave me alone. I don’t need you to be nice to me. Not anymore.” Alyssa slowly stood up, trying not to wince as her gastritis acted up.

She added, “Don’t try shoving your useless affection here now that Liana has broken your heart. I’m not a trash recycling center-not even if you beg.” Jasper clenched his hands into fists, anger rising fast with her insults.

He had come to help her out because he was worried about her.

Why did she have to demonize him so? Why did she humiliate his small gesture of kindness?

Alyssa put on her heels again and left the room while Jasper slowly cleaned up the cupcake mess on the floor, heart aching.

Alyssa was no longer the kind, affectionate woman who would smile at him and tend to him with all her heart.

Their failed marriage remained a lasting trauma in her heart center. It sculpted her into the hard-shelled, abrasive, and fierce woman.

One small hint of kindness was enough to make her push away, hurting him in the process.

Jasper trembled slightly, crushing the cake in his palm.

He did this to himself.

He single-handedly ruined such a sweet, young woman and their once-lovely marriage.

attracted the entire hall’s attention, with several reporters flocking to interview them for the night.

Sophia was chatting with other rich men’s wives while Betty and Zoe were busy with their plans.

interviewed about it. She hoped to use this to strengthen her reputation.

Meanwhile, Zoe was eagerly waiting to take a selfie with Yves in order to have a footing in the fashion world.

“What a surprise to see you wear this necklace to the event tonight, Madam fond of it?” Betty piped up upon seeing an opportunity open up.

The reporters instantly started taking photos of them together.

“Of course. This is Alexa’s work, after all.” her respect because the latter remarked on the necklace and the fact that she had chosen Berenike Hotel for her wedding.

So she wrapped an arm around Betty’s waist, posing for the camera.

Betty was absolutely thrilled.

charity auction? Or contribute a piece of your own?” a reporter asked.

“Oh? What kind of jewelry would it be?” “You’ll see for yourselves later on.” Zoe was lurking around Yves as well. She waited until her interview with some reporters had finished before marching straight up. “Madam Yves!” Yves stopped in her footsteps upon hearing her call. Her eyes were filled with sheer indifference as she looked Zoe up and down.

They didn’t know each other, nor did Zoe’s limited edition fall-series peach gown help the girl’s case. It didn’t suit her and made her come off as someone with bad taste.

“I’ve read all your magazines since I was a child, Madam Yves. I’m MINT’s loyal fan!” Zoe cooed, an enthusiastic blush on her cheeks.

*Since you were a child? Am I that old?” Yves smirked.

“N-No, not at all!” Zoe cried, cold sweat beginning to form on her nape. “What I meant was, I truly and honestly respect you from the bottom of my heart! Can… Can I…?” But Yves had already turned and walked past her.

“M-Madam Yves!” Zoe held her gown up and turned around to go after the woman.

But what she saw made her flinch, stumbling backward.

“There you are, Ms. Alyssa!” Yves crooned, going up to Alyssa’s side like they had known each other for years.

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 438-The surrounding guests and reporters shot Alyssa incredulous, awe-filled looks.

“My apologies, Madam Yves. I didn’t know you were waiting for me,” Alyssa said with a blush.

Yves grinned. “Don’t sweat it. You’ve had a busy night.” She then wrapped an arm around Alyssa’s shoulders, making the two look quite like close friends. She said to the reporters, “Come on, where are our photos?” Alyssa was just as shocked as everyone else.

This was the first time a cold, terrifying, dominating woman like Yves had initiated a photo with someone else.

The reporters thought that Alyssa must be someone special or unique to have caught her attention.

How tremendous!

Betty and Zoe were devastated, especially the latter, who felt shame burst inside her veins like fireworks.

Why?

Why was this happening?

Why were all the famous, influential, powerful people flocking toward Alyssa?

Zoe couldn’t figure out why.

Alyssa did her best to appear calm and happy while taking the photo with Yves, though her heart was pounding against her ribcage like an excited little beast. Her image should have gained some positivity by now.

After taking the photo, Yves and Alyssa went somewhere private to converse.

“Thank you so much, Madam Yves,” Alyssa said, her tone sincere.

Alyssa continued, “I’m sure you saw the trouble I was in earlier with the other reporters. Your gesture earlier signified your approval of me and thus helped me regain my footing.” “Ms. Alyssa.

“i know we’re on the same team in this event. Your helping me will also ensure the event goes smoothly and well Alyssa smiled. Regardless, I’m still deeply grateful.” “I didn’t help you just because we’re working together, Ms. Alyssa.” Yves’ tone and gaze were filled with a kind, caring warmth. “Your brother Jonah asked me to help you and watch over you tonight.” Shock flitted across Alyssa’s gaze.

Jonah was always like this, taking care of her even when he wasn’t around. But in this case, he was taking advantage of Yves’ feelings for him. That wasn’t very kind of him!

with you.” Yves took off her shades, her expression now serious.

Yves continued, “I can ask her to reconsider later. We’ve known each other for years.” “No, no, please don’t!” Alyssa shook her head. “You’ve helped so much already.

I couldn’t possibly accept more!” “Are you worried you’ll owe me one, girl?” Yves smiled, patting her shoulder reassuringly. “Don’t be. I’m doing all this of my own volition.

“There is no such thing as owing any favors. Jonah has told you about my feelings for him, hasn’t he?” Alyssa nodded, biting her lip.

“He loves you dearly. You’re the most important person in his life right now. That means you’re important to me, too.

“I’ve loved him for ten years but never sought anything in return. All I ask is that he continues letting me do so, nothing more.”

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 439-Yves’ eyes lit up at the thought of Jonah. Alyssa was speechless. She tried to figure out what exactly her brother had done to make her love him.

“You really did a number, Jonah,” Alyssa muttered under her breath.

Jasper had finished three cigarettes outside the venue. Yet, he remained upset and disappointed.

Nonetheless, he still dragged himself to the auction venue when it was time.

While he continued walking, another man approached the scene from the opposite end of the hallway.

The two immediately locked eyes as they stood outside the venue entrance.

Tension hung in the air between them, with Jasper’s intense glare clashing against Jameson’s icy gaze.

The latter pushed his gold-rimmed glasses up, a smirk rising on his lips. “What a coincidence. Are you here to contribute to charity too?” Jasper smiled lazily. “Nah. I’m just here to help her in any way I can.” Jameson slowly curled his hands into fists, knowing who Jasper meant.

The charity auction was finally starting.

There were two ways for guests to participate-to donate their jewelry pieces or to bid for the items being.

auctioned.

All proceeds would be directed toward governmental charity trusts. They would be used for various charitable causes with complete transparency on their part.

Being the 15th annual charity event MINT had organized, the guests wondered if KS World Hotel would break the record for the amount accumulated.

There was some commotion when Jasper and Jameson walked into the hall.

But knowing not to steal the spotlight from Alyssa tonight, they chose to sit in the very back row so as not to catch attention.

Meanwhile, Alyssa had no idea Jameson was here tonight. She was in the front row with Yves, the two occasionally leaning in to chat and giggle with one another.

A few rows behind them, Zoe fumed by herself at the sight.

As the auction began, the auctioneer revealed the first item to be bid. It was encased in a glass specimen case for all to see.

“Our first jewelry piece tonight hails from the personal collection of Madam Lily Schmidt of the Schmidt.

Group. It is an exquisite gold necklace with five Inlaid princess-cut black crystal opals, truly a rare and beautiful marvel.” There came a flurry of gasps from the crowd.

Such an expensive, high-grade specimen to start with the auction? This was truly a sign of respect for Alyssa and the event she was hosting tonight!

Alyssa was just as shocked. She quickly turned around to find Jameson.

The man swiftly met her gaze, raising a hand to give her a wave. Alyssa grinned, waving back.

Meanwhile, Jasper watched the two’s silent exchange, his grip on his number paddle tightened. He nearly distorted it.

Can’t Win Me Back Chapter 440-The opal necklace incited a wave of awe and gossip to resound through the hall.

Anyone could see just how fine the craftsmanship of the opals was and instantly estimated its value to be at least seven digits.

The Schmidt family was truly being generous tonight by donating this piece!

Just then, a spotlight fell on Jameson, making the crowd turn their attention to him. Many gasped and squealed at how refined this man looked.

Yet he only had eyes for Alyssa, as if she was the only thing that mattered.

“Who is he? He’s so handsome. He looks like some carved marble statue!” “That must be someone from the Schmidt family. How else could such a precious jewelry piece be available tonight?” “I’ve never seen him before!

“Hmm, if he’s already contributing this much to Ms. Alyssa, does that mean… they’re together?” “So what if they are? Ms. Alyssa is a modern-day Queen Sheba. They match very well together!” The more Jasper was privy to these conversations, the more irritated he was.

With his sharp, brooding.

gaze, Jameson appeared more like a sly snake than anything.

“This necklace starts at two million, ladies and gentlemen!” The moment the auctioneer announced such, the guests began raising their paddles.

“3 million!” “4 million! 4.5!” “5 million!” The guests were eager to bid on the stunning jewelry on display.

Alyssa’s gastritis disappeared the moment someone bid five million. Money could cure anything.

Meanwhile, Sophia and Betty were bristling with rage and hatred.

They had attended the event tonight to watch Alyssa crash and burn. Now that the auction started with a bang, their attempts at humiliating Alyssa were down the drain.

“That Jameson Schmidt’is really giving this his all, Mom! Donating something so precious. He really is generous with that whore!” Betty gritted out hatefully.

Sophia snorted. “Are you jealous?” “Of course I am!” Betty pinched at her dress, feeling upset. “No other man has ever treated me so kindly besides Dad himself. Alyssa receives that from her brothers, Landon, and now this Schmidt guy!

“Even Jasper seems to be warming up to her! I don’t understand what’s so attractive about her for them to be so infatuated with her! Her existence oppresses mine. I can’t even sleep well nowadays!” She dreamed of having a life like Alyssa’s, with brothers who doted on her at home and suitors everywhere. Unfortunately, that was not the case. All she had was a dumb sister dragging her down!

“Compose yourself! You’re my daughter, so start acting like it. You’re just as attractive and powerful as she is, so don’t start moping like a useless ragdoll!” Sophia pinched her daughter’s thigh, making Betty cry.

out in pain.

That made several guests glare at her.

“Landon will be my son-in-law, no doubt about that. Your marriage with him is set in stone now, so no one better get in my way unless they want to lose their neck.” Sophia glared right at Alyssa.

Sophia continued, “As for Jameson Schmidt? You don’t need to think about him.

Let that useless man be with Alyssa. It will stop Jasper from getting any ideas and won’t ruin my plans for you. It’s a win-win!” “B-But Mom, Jameson isn’t a bastard. His mother is even his father’s first wife.

Wouldn’t Alyssa gain more advantage if they were together?” Betty asked.

“More advantage? I’d say she’d be digging her own grave.” Sophia crossed her arms across her chest.

Sophia explained, “Jameson is the least prospective son out of Victor’s handful.

His mother isn’t favored, either. They’ve been overseas for years while their father stayed in the country.

“He won’t amount to much in the end. He has no company shares, assets, or position in his family business. We can sit back and watch Alyssa crumble apart under his care.” Sophia then sneered. “How I wish the two would just marry each other. That way, Alyssa can never get rid of such a useless burden.” The bidding for the opal necklace had reached six million.