Chapter 368: How Many Illegitimate Daughters Does the Reed Family Really Have?
Tina glanced coldly around, a sneer playing on her lips. “Grandma Reed, do I need to remind you that my mother has only one daughter?”
“You!” Annabelle’s face turned ashen.
That was why, ever since she found out that Lily was Jasper’s daughter, her attitude towards Tina had been cold. Tina was like an ungrateful wolf, never appreciating their kindness, no matter how heartfelt. She always seemed to take their good intentions for granted and carried an air of disdain towards the Reed family members.
Initially, Annabelle had tolerated her because Tina had once saved her life. But now…
Jasper didn’t have just one daughter! If Tina didn’t cherish her place, then better to dote on Lily instead.
Tina glanced at her, her gaze finally resting on Lily as she spoke indifferently, “Don’t call me family anymore. You’re not worthy!”
After saying this, Tina turned to leave. Lily, biting her lip and looking greatly aggrieved, called out, “Tina, if you keep this up, the Reed family won’t be able to keep you any longer.”
“Really?” Tina’s gaze shifted to Jasper. “Mr. Reed, you’re going to drive me away?”
Jasper was silent for a moment before responding, “I won’t drive you away.”
With a smirk, Tina no longer paid them any attention and walked into the house. Once in her room, she took out her phone and made a call.
“Tina,” came a voice on the other end, tinged with tenderness.
After pouring herself a glass of water and taking a sip, Tina slowly said, “Lily has been brought back.”
There was a pause on the line, then Jared’s voice, somewhat subdued, replied, “It seems someone couldn’t wait any longer.”
“The virus lab of Mr. Kim hasn’t been found yet,” Tina said coldly.Belonging to NôvelDrama.Org.
“There haven’t been any new cases of infants missing lately; their experiments probably haven’t started. Don’t worry, I’ll do everything I can to save those children,” assured Jared, his voice softening.
Tina nodded. “Okay, hand over the X Bureau to you, and have someone contact me.”
“Alright.”
Inside the Reed family’s main hall.
Jasper looked at Lily, fully aware of her distress, and immediately said, “Since yesterday was a misunderstanding, let’s organize another event for you.”
“Thank you, Dad.”
Lily had wanted to bring up the matter herself, but Jasper speaking first naturally led her to accept, especially as it helped clear up the misunderstanding from the day before. As long as she could restore her reputation from yesterday, there was still a chance for her to be with Jared.
What did it matter if it was all an act? They were already in a broken engagement.
The Reed family urgently needed this event to clear Lily’s name. Since the decorations from the previous night hadn’t been completely taken down, they quickly rearranged everything and once again sent out invitations to their social circle.
Considering yesterday’s events, those in the circle were curious and eager to see what this new banquet was about.
Annabelle had informed everyone in advance that the entire Reed family must attend the banquet, something Juliet found hard to accept.
Now, seeing Lily dressed even more strikingly than the day before, she grew even more resentful. “How many times has it been? How many illegitimate daughters does the Reed family really have out there?”
Her words were laden with sarcasm.
Lily nearly choked with anger upon hearing this. They always made things difficult for her because of Tina.
What was so good about that Tina? She was Juliet’s cousin too.
Why couldn’t she just say a word in her favor?
“Lily, don’t mind those words. Today is your banquet, and we must redeem our honor,” Willow said, standing beside Lily, having heard everything as well.
The term “bastard child” is unpleasant to hear. However, it was precisely this connection that allowed Willow to enter the Reed family, although Jasper does not yet acknowledge her. After all, she is Lily’s mother. With this relationship in place, she saw plenty of opportunities ahead.
Lily nodded, her fists clenching involuntarily. “Mom, I’ve already made plans. My experiment progressed a few days ago. Once I share this news with Jared, he will definitely focus on me.”
“Very well, now that you are a daughter of the Reed family, you must secure a marriage contract with the Farrell family, no matter what,” Willow said, her eyes brimming with hatred for Tina.
That little tramp! She is just like her mother, always stealing the men others love.
Dressed in an elegant evening gown, Lily had to replace yesterday’s ruined dress with one that was barely adequate. She wore her signature smile, waiting for the guests to arrive. As the night grew darker, not a single person came. Lily’s smile stiffened-no one had come to her banquet. What did this mean? Were they disrespecting the Reed family? Was this a mockery of the Reed family?
Just then, a beam of headlights approached. Lily lifted her skirt slightly and immediately brightened up, seeing a man alight from the car-Jared, and only Jared, from the Farrell family.
Jared, in a simple suit, looked exceptionally tall and carried an innate composure that was intimidating yet drew Lily closer. The fact that Jared was alone made Lily’s heart leap with joy, and she hurried forward.
“Mr. Farrell, this is the latest development in my research. I’ve contacted your assistant, but I felt it was better to tell you in person,” Lily said, handing over the prepared documents.
However, Jared completely ignored her, walking past her towards someone else. This disregard froze the smile on Lily’s face as she saw him heading towards Tina, his indifference vanishing without a trace.
They had already broken off the engagement! And he was still looking for Tina? What did Tina have besides a pretty face?
Lily was not willing to give up, but as she looked up at the crystal chandelier prepared especially for her, a sinister smile crossed her lips.
The Reed family was somewhat surprised by Jared’s presence; they thought no one would come. Willow was about to approach when Jared ignored her as he had ignored Lily, heading straight for Tina.
Tina looked stunning today in a simple strapless evening gown. The dress was elegant without being overly elaborate. With her hair up, revealing her delicate collarbone and wearing a pendant, her light makeup made her stand out brilliantly under the lights.
“Tina,” Jared said, evidently shocked. His niece usually disliked elaborate attire, especially at an insignificant banquet. Yet today, she was dressed beautifully.
Tina smiled, “Uncle!” Her attire today was certainly not for Lily. According to her brother Hayden, her uncle was going to confess his feelings for her today. She was quite looking forward to it.
Jared: Hayden, well done! My carefully planned surprise, and you’ve ruined it.
Hayden: I’m innocent, Mr. Farrell! It was Sophia who told me!