?Chapter 360:


    Cecily pondered his words, finding a brutal logic in them. They were not demanding the entire Harper fortune, merely a significant share. Surely, Elena would consent.


    The Harpers were a top-tier family in the, with Yewridge Mountain as proof of their status.


    At the mere thought of snatching half of their vast fortune, a glint of raw greed danced in Sylvia’s eyes.


    With a masterful disy of feigned sincerity, Sylvia approached her parents. “Mom, Dad, you’ve poured your hearts into raising Elena. She owes you her gratitude. When the timees for you to rest, I’ll ensure you live out your days infort, free from worry.” Her voice was soft, her demeanor convincingly earnest.


    Cecily, moved by Sylvia’s words, was overwhelmed with a sense of fulfillment. She sped Sylvia’s hand warmly. “You truly are a blessing, unlike that ungrateful Elena.”


    Nestling closer within the safety of Cecily’s arms, Sylvia’s lips curled into a quiet smile of triumph.


    However, a sudden thought made Sylvia rise abruptly, a shadow crossing her bright expression. “I have extended an invitation to Elena for my wedding with Darren, yet it seems she might not attend. What if she ignores it altogether?”


    Cecily’s face contorted with rage. “What? That ungrateful little brat! After you graciously invited her, she dares to snub us?”


    Sylvia conveniently left out the part where she bragged and simply said she was there to deliver an invitation to Elena. Tears streamed down her face as she struggled to get the words out. “She’s been part of the Reed family for over two decades. I thought, despite everything, she’d still see us as family. She’s been lucky to have you and Dad treat her so well. I can’t believe she told me to get lost… Mom, did I do something wrong?”


    Rushing to soothe Sylvia, Cecily wrapped an arm around her. “No, my dear, you’ve done nothing wrong. That brat Elena doesn’t appreciate anything and can’t even see what’s in her best interest!” Her jaw set firmly, she dered, “Don’t worry, Sylvia. Your father and I will handle it. We’ll extend a personal invitation. Elena won’t dare refuse us then.”


    Benjamin remained silent, his lips pressed into a firm line. Since Elena had outright refused their invitation, they resolved to persuade her in person. No way in hell she would be bold enough to turn them down and embarrass them! After all, they were her elders, the very ones who had nurtured her throughout her childhood—she owed them at least that much respect.


    gα?ησν????s is full of thrilling adventures


    Sylvia’s shoulders shook as she wept softly, her sobs eventually subsiding into quiet sniffles.


    Benjamin and Cecily spent an entire afternoon waiting at the imposing gate of Hillside Manor, but there was no sign of Elena. Disappointed yet determined, they nned to return the following day.


    Unbeknownst to them, Elena had already made her way to Jeffry’s apartment.


    Inside, Lydia’s condition was dire, her injuries so severe that walking was nearly impossible. Jeffry, ever the devoted caretaker, had taken to bringing her meals directly to her bed.


    Despite Lydia’s grim state, her spirits were surprisingly high. As Elena entered the room, she couldn’t help but notice Lydia’s radiant smile. “You were shot twice, Lydia. How can you be so cheerful?” Elena asked, eyebrows raised in both concern and curiosity.


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