Chapter 389: Utterly Delusional

“Is that so?” Madelyn responded with a chuckle, intrigue playing across her features. “But isn’t it curious that, despite causing such a scandal, that man’s career flourished afterward?”

“What are you implying?” Cheryl’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion, her gaze sharpening as she tried to understand Madelyn’s insinuation.

Madelyn decided to lay out the facts plainly. “I’ve had someone investigate. Although Moana Corporation has dissolved, that man has started a new venture. It’s smaller, and currently, its financial health is precarious.”

“If my suspicions are correct,” Madelyn continued, leaning in, “that man was likely bribed by Janessa. She orchestrated the slander against your mother, receiving considerable financial backing in return. Now, he’s living comfortably.”

Madelyn had assigned Cyrus to discreetly investigate these allegations. It was increasingly evident this was a calculated act of defamation, with Janessa as the mastermind.

“Damn it! Does Janessa even possess a shred of humanity?” Cheryl exclaimed, trembling with rage.

Each time Cheryl considered Janessa’s role in her parents’ estrangement, she felt an overwhelming urge to berate her in her thoughts.

“Ms. Thornton, what do you think I should do now?” Cheryl’s voice held a note of desperation. “I’ve tried repeatedly to explain the situation to my father, but he refuses to listen. He’s adamant about finalizing their divorce within days. I can’t bear the thought of them splitting up.”

“I understand your distress,” Madelyn replied with a reassuring smile. “Isn’t that precisely why I’m here to help?”

Without further ado, Madelyn pulled two documents from her bag. “I’ve uncovered that this man recently received a substantial payment of two million directly from Janessa’s account. Here, take these documents; they should serve as compelling evidence against her.”

“All right.” Cheryl accepted the papers, scanning the detailed bank transfer records. Her eyes sparked with animosity as she read—Janessa’s actions were reprehensible.

“However, possessing this proof alone isn’t sufficient,” Madelyn cautioned. “Janessa might close this account soon, eliminating any trail.”

“Huh?” Cheryl looked perplexed. “So, what am I supposed to do then?”

“Don’t rush, hear me out first,” Madelyn advised calmly.

Cheryl, realizing the complexity of the issue, quieted down to absorb Madelyn’s proposal.

Madelyn analyzed the situation methodically. “If I’m not mistaken, Janessa has recently become more involved in the company’s operations, gradually earning your father’s and the board’s trust, correct?”

This possibility infuriated Cheryl whenever she thought about it.

Madelyn’s expression remained composed and soothing. “Don’t be deceived—Janessa is far from being an angel. Her actions aren’t merely to endear herself to your father.”

“What do you mean? I’m even more confused now,” Cheryl admitted, her confusion deepening.

Madelyn’s smile broadened. “To put it bluntly, if this trajectory continues unchecked, I predict Janessa’s next move will be a takeover. She’s not after the role of a prominent young lady; she aims to seize the entire Sherritt family fortune. Do you understand now?”

“Damn her, who does she think she is!” Cheryl burst out angrily. “Sherritt Group is the culmination of my father’s lifelong dedication. How dare she, an outsider, presume she has any claim over it? She’s utterly delusional!”

“That might not be as far-fetched as you think,” Madelyn interjected seriously. “Do you truly believe Janessa could orchestrate all this single-handedly?”

“You must have some idea who’s behind her, don’t you?” Madelyn pressed.

“Are you implying Janessa has powerful support?” Cheryl realized, her posture stiffening.

“Exactly,” Madelyn affirmed with a nod. “You’ve undoubtedly heard of this individual. They are connected to Janessa’s maternal family and are no ordinary characters.”

Cheryl felt a sudden pang of dread. Oh no, how could I have overlooked this person?

The mystery surrounding Janessa’s maternal lineage had always been a point of contention. Initially, Cheryl and her mother had commissioned investigations, but all leads had inexplicably dried up.

Rather than disappearing without a trace, their identities seemed intricate and enigmatic.

Even Rupert was oblivious to the full extent of Janessa’s maternal family’s dealings, which appeared to involve both legitimate and less-than-legal activities.

“So, what should I do?” Cheryl lamented, feeling overwhelmed. “I’m essentially unsupported. If they wield such significant influence and I can’t counteract, must I just watch helplessly as Janessa usurps my family’s company?”

“Absolutely not,” Madelyn interjected firmly. “Do you think I would stand idly by and watch Janessa ascend unchallenged?”

Madelyn was acutely aware that once Janessa regained her footing, her own period of tranquility would be decisively ended.

She had no desire to perpetually engage in these exhausting power struggles, nor did she want her life consumed by relentless conflicts with Janessa.

All she yearned for was to resolve these ongoing issues and thereafter live a serene, contented life with Sebastian, filled with mutual love and respect.

But Janessa’s opposition made this difficult. Thus, no matter the cost, Madelyn was…

“from her mother’s side,” Madelyn explained.

She added, “From what I can gather, the exact nature of her mother’s family remains shrouded in mystery. However, one thing is clear—their standing is not to be underestimated, or they wouldn’t dare target Thornton Corporation.”

“Is this issue with Thornton Corporation also connected to Janessa?” Cheryl asked, taken aback.

Madelyn nodded calmly. “Why else do you think I would intervene? It’s not as if I have nothing better to do. I’m assisting you because your family is a crucial business ally of ours. Moreover, Janessa poses a common threat to both of us. Hence, it’s important that we join forces to devise a strategy against her.”

“So that’s the situation,” Cheryl murmured, gaining new insight.

Previously, she had wondered about Madelyn’s sudden offer of help. Now, everything fell into place with a clear and logical explanation.