Chapter 455: A Place For Her

Cheryl’s act was convincing; her tears flowed freely. Seeing her distress, the others felt somber.

At that moment, Cheryl discreetly glanced at the person officiating the funeral. Janessa's aunt should have been present, given the occasion's significance, but only a host was there. This seemed unusual; her aunt's absence was strange.

After paying their respects, Cheryl moved aside with Caleb.

“Caleb, don’t you think something’s amiss with Janessa’s aunt?” Cheryl asked, confused. “She made such a fuss online about the funeral, yet she didn’t come. Isn’t that odd?”

The funeral was held at a city-center funeral home, where many media outlets had gathered. The scene was bustling, yet seemingly unmanaged.

“Her aunt’s family is so mysterious,” Caleb agreed, perplexed.

Just as they pondered this, the media swarmed them, microphones thrust forward.

“Ms. Sherritt, the deceased was your half-sister, sharing the same father. Can you tell us your feelings, attending her funeral?” a reporter asked, holding up the microphone.

“You sent your sister to prison; are you here to revel in her misfortune?”

“Ms. Sherritt, no family members are present. Are you hosting the funeral as a relative?”

“Ms. Sherritt, what are you thinking? Would you share?”

“Ms. Sherritt, please respond.”

For a moment, the media surrounded Cheryl and Caleb.

Fortunately, Cheryl had anticipated this. She knew their appearance would bring a barrage of questions, so she’d prepared.

Putting on a sorrowful expression, she spoke mournfully. “I appreciate everyone’s concern. However, I came to my sister’s funeral with a heavy heart. I’m afraid I cannot fully engage with everyone.”

The media nodded understandingly.

Cheryl then began her performance. With a pitiful look, she said, “Actually, everyone may have their own interpretations. However, I’ve always known my sister’s personality. Coupled with her background, I understand why she dislikes me. I’ve always tried to see things from her perspective. Even though she took over the company and ousted my brother and me, I felt no anger. I believe that as long as she managed the company well, I was willing to give it all to her. However, I never expected she’d hurt Dad!”

As she spoke, Cheryl’s profound sorrow was palpable. “When the doctor confirmed my father’s coma due to the drug my sister gave him, I realized the extent of her cruelty. All these years, my concessions only made her more ruthless. I discovered how twisted her heart had become! Later, she committed unauthorized stock trading, nearly destroying the company.”

At that moment, silence fell. Everyone listened intently. “Do you think I wanted to dethrone my sister? To send her to prison? That wasn’t my intention.” Tears streamed down Cheryl’s face. “If it weren’t for my love for my father, for Sherritt Group, his life’s work—how could I hurt my sister? But her twisted heart left me no choice. I swear, I only wanted her to reform in prison. After she got out, we’d be close again, and there would always be a place for her in the company. That was my true intention! But I never thought my sister would… I’m sorry, Janessa. I’ve let you down.”

As the performance continued, Cheryl became fully immersed. Unexpectedly, she crouched, clutching her head and sobbing genuinely.

Caleb quickly intervened. “Cheryl, you can’t blame yourself. Don’t feel guilty. You did what you had to. Everyone’s life and death are predetermined. Janessa’s death has nothing to do with you, understand?”

“No, it’s all my fault! Everyone will blame me…” Cheryl sobbed uncontrollably.

“Ladies and gentlemen, my sister is overwhelmed with guilt. Please stop taking pictures and let me take her somewhere to calm down,” Caleb pleaded.

Seeing Cheryl’s distress, the reporters knew the interview was over. They took a few photos before ushering them away.

“Thank you for your understanding,” Caleb said, supporting the distraught Cheryl as they left.

Once in the car, Cheryl’s tears stopped abruptly. With a beaming smile, she asked, “How was my performance? Did I do well?”

Her rapid change of expression was remarkable. A moment ago, sorrow consumed her; now, she brimmed with joy.

Caleb was awestruck. “You outdid yourself, making it seem so real.”