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Chapter 4

“Shouldn’t the Sanders family be outside greeting the guests? How come there’s still someone here? Wait, it seems like Annie Sanders hasn’t shown up yet!” Donald Morris reported on the other end of the line.

‘Annie Sanders?‘ A hint of surprise dashed in Jacksort’s eyes.

In the exclusive social circles of Betrico, there were only a handful of famous families. With his attention on the Sanders family, Jackson glimpsed Annic at a certain reception. Back then, she was dressed in a flashy gold sequined dress, her face heavily layered in makeup, almost blinding. But today she appeared fresh and clean, with delicate features on a petite face, looking somewhat beautiful.

‘She mentioned repaying a favor, yet we had never even crossed paths. Where did this favor come from? There must be something hidden.‘ A cold are formed on Jackson’s lips. “Before tonight ends, I want to know everything about this woman.”

The Sanders family loved showing off, so Jessica’s birthday celebration was as extravagant as could

Even though the Sanders family wasn’t exactly part of the high society, Annie’s father, Yosef Sanders, held the second–largest stake in Chandler Group, the lead of the four prominent families. Jessica’s father, John Sanders, also held a position within the company.

The Chandlers were a prestigious family with a century–long history in Betrico, involved not only in real estate but also leaving their mark in entertainment, films, and technological innovation in recent years. Their leader, Brian Chandler, was undoubtedly the richest man in Clusia, unmatched for years.

With strong support from the Chandlers, the Sanders family had risen through the ranks, garnering numerous admirers in Betrico.

Today, all eyes were on Jessica, elegantly dressed in a form–fitting purple gown that complemented her figure, exuding grace and elegance. She mingled with the guests, conversing effortlessly as if she was born to be a socialite in high society.

Just as Jessica caught sight of Yolanda’s displeased expression, she felt a twinge of annoyance. “What’s up with you? It’s my birthday, and here you are looking all gloomy. And seriously, why didn’t you make an effort to dress up for such a special occasion? Not even a nice piece of jewelry on you!”

Yolanda touched her bare earlobes, feeling a tad embarrassed. Unlike Jessica and Annie, she didn’t have a wealthy dad. To make matters worse, her dad was reckless, blowing all the family cash and leaving her with nothing for proper jewelry.

“Oh, Yolanda, why aren’t you wearing any bling?” Selena Gale, who was nearby, perked up at Jessica’s voice.

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Yolanda glanced around at the inquisitive looks, wishing she could vanish. Still, she kept up a casual demeanor. I tried some on, but they didn’t go well with tonight’s outfit. Too lazy to go shopping for more, so I just skipped it.”

Selena continued. “But I recall you have a pair of diamond studs that would go perfectly with this

dress.

Annie has snatched them back! Yolanda clenched her teeth in anger, but then she chuckled.

abruptly. “Annie claimed she had zero bling to match her dress, so I gave mine to her.” She made it sound like she was donating it to Annie.

The moment Annie’s name was mentioned, everyone’s focus shifted immediately.

Selena asked slyly, “Hey, why hasn’t Annie shown up today?”

Since Annie had returned to the Sanders residence, she had brought them a lot of laughs. With her absence now, things felt a bit dull.

Someone chimed in with a grin, “Yeah, she’s always up for events. Yet she’s not been here now. Could it be that she caught wind of Jeremy coming and is busy sprucing herself up?”

Yolanda replied with a meaningful smile. “Annie’s upstairs changing her outfit. Don’t worry. She’ll be down shortly.

“Spill it. What mischief are you brewing?” Selena leaned in, teasingly prodding.

Yolanda wore a smug grin. “Mischief? She was dead set on wearing that evening gown Lucy had. flaunted on the red carpet. We tried to intervene, but it was no use.”

Lucy Hughes, a flashy starlet, intentionally donned provocative attire on the red carpet to grab attention. Regardless of potential cosmetic enhancements, her shapely figure was indeed striking. In contrast. Annie’s physique…

A woman laughed out. “What a hick! Her taste is just terrible.”

Another voice chimed in, “And that face, not even plastic surgery could help much, yet she’s eyeing Jeremy!”

“I feel sorry for you to have a cousin like that, Jessica,” someone expressed sympathy.

Jessica let out a sigh and replied, “You all know, Annie’s been a free spirit since she was young. Some habits are tough to shake, and we can’t do anything about it.” She hinted that Annie’s behavior was her own doing and not their responsibility.

“Oh, I can’t wait for Annie to show up now.” Everyone couldn’t help but stifle their laughs, envisioning Annie’s possible embarrassment later.

Suddenly, someone spotted a figure at the door and exclaimed, “Who’s that?”

All heads turned to behold a slender figure. With delicate features, rosy lips, and eyes sparkling like stars, she showcased her curves flawlessly in the elegant black evening gown. As she swayed over,

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Chapter 4

she exuded a charm more captivating than the women in the fashion magazines.