Chapter 116
Chapter 116:
She tactfully offered Leonie an out, leaving the decision to her discretion.
Sensing the tension, Nina decided it was time to change the subject. “Leonie, let’s drop the topic of the Edwards family. I heard you acquired a painting from JE’s childhood today. Is that true?”
With Nina’s intervention, Leonie felt compelled to show some deference. She nodded and said, “It was a fortunate coincidence that I obtained this painting. I imagine many here are curious about the kind of artwork JE produced in her youth.”
“Then why are you planning to auction it off?” Nina asked, her expression showing slight confusion. “Wouldn’t you prefer to add it to your collection?”
Leonie clarified, “The primary goal of this charity banquet is to raise funds, and featuring JE’s childhood painting has certainly drawn a crowd.”
Indeed, JE’s reputation was formidable. She had achieved the rare distinction of being a top-tier designer, a status that elevated her to the level of a celebrity. A pen that once belonged to JE could easily rake in millions at an auction, demonstrating the vast reach of her fame.
This exact reason compelled Janice to stay under the radar. If her identity were ever disclosed, the repercussions on her everyday life could be severe.
Despite her caution, she found herself curious about which of her childhood artworks Leonie had managed to secure.
Reflecting on her younger years, Janice remembered the pieces she had crafted, many of which she had sold to support the orphanage, their paths eventually crossing with various collectors.
Just then, Leonie cast a glance at Nellie, who was busy engaging with guests. Turning to Nina, she mentioned, “I have some urgent business to take care of; I must leave now.”
“Take care, Mrs. Green, Janice,” Nina replied.
As Leonie hurried off with Sierra towards Nellie, Janice’s eyes narrowed, observing their brief interaction before they proceeded towards Kenneth.
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A spark of curiosity lit within her. “Do you think Nellie and Kenneth are heading out on a date?”
“Huh?” Caught slightly off-guard, Nina hesitated, then her face lit up with understanding. “It does seem likely. It appears that the Ramirez and Delgado families might be drawing closer, perhaps even considering a marriage alliance.”
“Will this affect the Green family?” Janice asked with a hint of curiosity.
With a lift of her chin and a flash of pride, Nina responded confidently, “Their alliance is simply for mutual support. They lack the credentials to pose any real threat to the Green family.”
Observing Nina’s assured demeanor, Janice understood it was rooted in the formidable reputation of the Greens. As the leading house among the four great families, their historical influence was not something easily rivaled by a simple union of the other two.
However, Janice couldn’t shake off her concerns about internal conflicts within the Green family itself. She was wary of Alcott and Bart, who might be plotting behind the scenes, potentially allowing other families to exploit any emerging weaknesses. This was especially alarming given Bart’s interactions with Kenneth shortly before Aiden’s car accident.
What if their dealings were more sinister than they appeared, potentially endangering Aiden?
Nellie walked up to Kenneth with a champagne glass in hand. “Mr. Delgado, would you like a drink?”
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