The party took place in the same four-star hotel. As the guests chatted quietly, they couldn't help but notice the
mayor's reluctance to invest more in making the event more extravagant.
"Do you guys have any idea? He just got promoted. He has to appear modest," someone whispered.
"But whether it's the Chriss family or the Pattons, they surely deserve more than a four-star hotel. After all, the
mayor's son-in-law is in business!" Another guest chimed in.
"Absolutely. Considering their connections with the four influential families, they could have gone all out," a third
guest added.
"Could it be that they have ulterior motives for choosing this hotel?" someone wondered aloud.
Unbeknownst to them, Bianca had been lurking and eavesdropping. She dismissed any suspicions about hidden
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtintentions but felt relieved as long as nobody was pointing fingers at her.
Onstage, Harold stood tall and waved to the audience with a genuine smile. The music stopped, and all eyes were
on him. Despite his age, his robust health, impeccable posture, and resonant voice exuded remarkable charisma.
"First and foremost, I extend my warm welcome to this gathering," Harold began. "Each one of you deserves credit
for our campaign's success. I won't let you down, nor will I disappoint the citizens of Centrolis. I'm committed to
leading us toward a brighter future!"
Applause erupted from below the stage, and the guests raised their glasses in a show of respect.
"Furthermore, I know you all care deeply for my granddaughter, Nala."
As soon as he mentioned Nala, she rushed onstage to envelop her grandfather in a warm hug. He affectionately
patted her head, displaying a loving smile.
Whispers rippled through the audience as they learned about Nala's recent kidnapping and fortunate recovery.
Meanwhile, Alexander received the credit for their good fortune.
Alexander gazed at Bianca with a tender smile in a quiet corner.
"While it's true that the mastermind behind Nala's kidnapping was evil, we were fortunate to have a kind-hearted
savior step in. Moreover, I've already identified the culprit!"
Harold's gaze shifted toward Lena the moment he made this announcement.
Bianca's heart raced with excitement. Harold was suspicious of Lena! Her cunning scheme had indeed worked,
successfully pinning the blame on Lena!
"That's right." Bianca's voice was soft but audible to those around her. "Like mother, like daughter. This saying holds
true! A child of a criminal is bound to follow in their parent's footsteps!"
"What are you saying, Bianca?" Arya suddenly appeared behind her. "If you have something to say, step onto the
stage and speak up. Or else, no one can hear you!"
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm
"You..." Bianca gnashed her teeth, her frustration evident.
"Oh, by the way, I suppose your classmates are unaware that you secured your academic credits by bribing your
way through an overseas school, right?" Arya shot back, unfazed.
Bianca's glare could have cut through steel.
Arya's revelation spread like wildfire, ensuring everyone was well aware of her past.
"What's your issue?" Bianca grumbled, her teeth still clenched. "Mr. Patton is addressing the crowd, and you're here
causing a scene. Do you need us to build you a stage?"
Arya stared into her eyes and asked, "Bianca, are you upset?"
Speechless and bewildered by Arya's unexpected comments, Bianca could only roll her eyes in response.