Chapter 369: Not Kind

Sarah chuckled lightly at the concern shown for the elder's health, unconcerned by others' peculiar glances. Given her advanced maternal age, they felt it wasn't their place to comment.

David's family, however, relished the gossip. "Unbelievable! Aunt Joanna and Dylan wanted to bring that two-faced woman to our family dinner, but Uncle Eric refused. They got angry and didn't show up! Do they really think they deserve such respect? Sarah's divorce and Nina's name change are none of their business. Suggesting someone else is just nonsensical!"

David's family looked contemptuous upon hearing this. Alexander, recalling recent investigation results, remembered Cecilia was from an orphanage Joanna funded—a connection that introduced her to Dylan. However, their relationship went far beyond charity; Joanna treated Cecilia as an adopted daughter, showering her with money and affection—a fact Eric, preoccupied with business and unconcerned with household matters, was unaware of. Without knowing the history, Alexander might have suspected Cecilia was an illegitimate child.

Nonetheless, Alexander prioritized investigating Cecilia's biological parents, believing Joanna's outrage stemmed from that. He also uncovered a secret Isabella hadn't explored: Cecilia and Dylan were romantically involved. Alexander possessed records of their encounters but had no intention of exposing them—both were single. However, should Cecilia seek adoption by the Quirk family, this evidence would be damning.

Eric subtly inquired about Janice's stay, hinting at her return home. Joanna and Dylan had suggested he bring Janice back, but he preferred to gauge her feelings. Previously, Janice would have complied, but now she declared, "No. I'll spend more time with my cousins. It's rare they visit, and the holiday's almost over. I'll be back at school soon." She prioritized her extended family over her immediate family.

Eric realized their family had serious problems and planned a serious talk with Janice.

Later, Janice's phone vibrated. Fearful of reprimands from her mother and brother, she cautiously checked it. A smirk spread across her face. It was Cody. His message read: "What are you up to? Why are you picking on Cecilia? You're the young lady of the Quirk family, and she's just a poor orphan. Can't you stand to see her doing well? I don't like this side of you. It's not kind. I hope this is the last time. Don't interfere with your father's decision to adopt Cecilia. Go home with your father today, correct your mistakes, and together, find a way to have the Quirk family adopt Cecilia."

Janice froze. Cody's harsh criticism, while infrequent, always left her questioning herself. Her mother and brother favored Cecilia, but Cody had chosen her. He was all she had left. As she considered apologizing, she heard Sarah's arrogant laughter from the living room.

"I'm the young lady of the Quirk family. Nina and I can't be wrong; the fault lies with them! You'll see. Quirk Group's PR isn't to be underestimated. Just wait for the show to begin!" Janice was stunned, recalling recent events.

The final paragraph ("After donline1/2 12:31 Sat, Oct") is unintelligible and has been omitted. The numerical information appears to be unrelated to the narrative.