Chapter 6
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The early summer night had cast its spell, the sky ablaze with stars against the dark canvas.
On the outskirts of Betrico, the Havenwood Estates stood in all their golden grandeur, a beacon of wealth against the night. This was the heart of Betrico’s high society, where the city’s mog influential families resided.
Among the elite, the Chivers family loomed large, with the Simpson, Chambers, and Leach families in their shadow. The Leach family, once a powerhouse, had been fading since Jacob took control.
as
The Leach manor, a symbol of grandeur and luxury, was composed of three separate but interconnected buildings.
The grandest of the three buildings, the main house, was where Jacob and his family enjoyed a life of luxury. The east wing of the manor was occupied by the family’s third branch, and the west wing was the domain of Oliver and his eldest lineage.
The patriarch’s immediate family was small and close, having been reduced to just Andy and his mother after a car accident took the life of Andy’s father years prior, Oliver had since moved in with them, strengthening their bond under one roof.
The main house was a beacon of extravagance.
On the second floor, Mandy Leach relaxed, smelling of expensive perfume. Wearing fancy jewelry and bright red lipstick, she slowly moved a glass of red wine, looking rich and attractive
Beside Mandy, her daughter Shirley Leach sat, bearing a strong resemblance to her mother. Clad in a red dress that highlighted her figure, Shirley had a beautiful face, impeccable makeup, and her nicely done nails tapped anxiously.
Shirley Lewis, now called Shirley Leach, joined the Leach family when Jacob married Mandy less than six months after Claire’s death.
Shirley, then four, was just a year younger than Cherise. Initially introduced as an adopted daughter, her impressive qualities made her a recognized member of the Leach family in Betrico
“Mom, I’m scared Cherise will ruin my engagement to Jeffrey. It was Cherise’s mother who arranged the match with the Chambers. She must be here to take him away. Mom, you have to help me,‘ Shirley pleaded, her face filled with anxiety.
Mandy looked at Shirley with a hint of disappointment. “Shirley, you’re the heir to the Leach Group and have the backing of the Lewis family. Despite its waning influence, it remains a force to be reckoned with.
“Don’t lose your nerve against Cherise. You’re poised to become Chambers by marriage.” Mandy sipped her wine, a glint of malice in her eyes as she thought of Cherise.
Shirley’s face brightened with a proud grin as she listened to Mandy. That’s right, I’m the lady of the Leach family and a well–known figure in Betrico. The elite of Betrico flock to me. A country girl like her should think twice before entering our circle.”
With a newfound resolve, Shirley stood up. “Thanks, Mom, I get it. I’m going to practice the piano. Liam is judging next month’s Clusia Piano Competition, and I’m going to win” And with that, Shirley exited the room, her steps reflecting her confidence.
Mandy nodded, pleased, and sipped her wine with contentment
As soon as Shirley stepped out of the hall, she swiftly dialed a number on her phone. Once the call was over, smile curved her lips.
a victorious
In the blink of an eye, the funeral was over, and Cherise’s grandmother was at peace in her final resting place.
13:24 Tue, Dec 3G.
Chapter 6
In the tranquil cemetery, white tombstones rose against a backdrop of vibrant green cypresses.
Standing before a new grave, Cherise looked at the image of her grandmother on the tombstone, which showed a kind and noble smile.
With a solemn reverence, Cherise bowed three times, Laid her grandmother’s cherished daisies at the base of the stone, and then turned to leave, her steps carrying her out of the cemetery quiet embrace.
After leaving the cemetery, she walked deliberately into the adjacent small forest. Pausing among the trees, she clenched her fists, her eyes burning with determination. “Reveal yourselves,” she called out, her voice echoing through the woods.
SEN
