Chapter 73

Shirley wiped away her tears and asked tentatively, "Mr. Renner why are you so concerned about my foster mother's case?

She wondered. Is it because of Cynthia? Does she want Rachel to be released?

But then Shirley realized it didn't make sense. Cynthia had never even met Rachel. By the time Shirley returned to the Jones family, Rachel was already in prison. Rachel never got to reunite with Cynthia, and they never had a chance to talk. There was no way they could have developed any feelings for each other.

Besides, Shirley thought Cynthia must have resented Rachel as the latter's notorious reputation had negatively impacted her. Being labeled the daughter of a murderer brought harsh criticism and stigma. Cynthia definitely wouldn't want anything to do with Rachel Jonathan remained indifferent as he said, "Your adoptive mother worked as a live-in nanny for the Sullivan family in Betrico for three years. The family has a good relationship with her and wants to help. I have some connections with the Sullivan family, and I'm acting on their behalf." Shirley understood instantly. Rachel used to work as a housekeeper. The Sullivan family in Betrico was the best employer she had ever had. Shirley remembered being in high school when Rachel worked for them.

Dennis often abused them, so Rachel took Shirley with her everywhere. During that time, Shirley also lived in Betrico and had to attend a private school since she was a non-resident.

With the help of the Sullivan family, Shirley was able to transfer to a local private high school. The high salary Rachel earned from the Sullivans also made it possible for Shirley to attend that elite school

However, in her third year of high school, she was forced to return to Roncrity due to a mistake. Rachel had to quit her job and went back with her.

'So, that was it. If Cynthia isn't involved in this, then it shouldn't be a problem, Shirley thought.

Shirley said, "But it's not easy to overturn the appeal."

"Don't worry. I will pave the way for you," Jonathan said.

Shirley sighed with relief and said, "Rachel being in prison has been my biggest regret. I'm truly grateful that you're willing to help fix this for me. Honestly, even if you hadn't mentioned it I was already preparing to appeal and reopen her case. But the road ahead is tough. Now, with your support, I feel much more at ease."

Shirley immediately decided to appeal for Rachel. Of course, that was a decision she made after carefully weighing the pros

and cons.

It wasn't without its drawbacks. Trying to overturn Rachel's case would likely upset Selena. Besides, it would also expose which could lead to people mocking Shirley's past.

But at present, she didn't care as that could bring her and Jonathan closer.

They would share a common goal. During that process, they would have to discuss mid negotiate frequently, possibly even live together. Their relationship was bound to make progress. Plus, it would allow her to improve her image in Jonathan's eyes.

And even if Rachel was released, she wouldn't have any connection to Shirley, Cynthia, being Rachel's biological daughter. would naturally be responsible for Rachel's care. That would also create a significant problem for Cynthia, effectively killing two birds with one stone for Shirley

As for Selena, Shirley figured that a display of puppy eyes would probably be enough to coax her and smooth things out. Chapter 73

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Shirley was in a great mod She had initially planned to see Jonathan, but the unexpected outcome made her even more pleased. Seizing the moment, she suggested, "It's already noon. How about we have lunch together and continue discussing the case?"

When Shirley walked in, she noticed the food on the table, untouched. Will Jonathan invite me for lunch since I mentioned it?' she wondered. She noticed that there were two sets of cutleries laid out on the table.

Jonathan said, "There's no need to rush the appeal. We can dises it later. It's getting late, Ms. Jones. Please head back. He pointed toward the doorway, making it clear that he was asking her to leave.

Shirley felt a bit disappointed, but she reminded herself that her relationship with Jonathan couldn't be rushed. After all, Cynthia was still between them. However, she was confident that, in the end, she would win Jonathan's heart.

After Shirley had left. Cynthia emerged from the bedroom. She walked over to the dining table, sat down, and sighed softly.

Thank goodness for your charm."

Jonathan walked over, clearly dissatisfied. "Do you plan to compensate me for the emotional stress?" he asked.

Cynthia laughed and teased, "You sound like I had asked you to sell yourself." Jonathan smiled.

The two of them sat down and chatted over lunch.

"Shirley embarrassed the Jones family last night, which has already made Justin unhappy. The only thing she can count on now is Selena's protection. If she really goes through with the appeal for Rachel, it would be like stabbing Selena in the back. Je's a brilliant move, Jonathan remarked. He stared into Cynthia's eyes and said, "It seems that I can't offend you in the future. You are very vindictive."

Jonathan also realized that that was a ploy to drive a wedge between Shirley and Selena. Shirley wasn't foolish. She knew that appealing for Rachel would undoubtedly upset Selena. But Cynthia had seen through her greed and obsession with Jonathan. So, she used it to cloud Shirley's judgment and make her act recklessly.

Cynthia playfully extended her pinky finger, gently touching Jonathan's chin. "Don't worry. I won't use this trick on you." Jonathan suddenly grabbed her hand and kissed it. "You've already charmed me enough. That's the only move I need." After lunch, Cynthia took a quick nap, though she didn't really have the time to rest. She had to say that Jonathan was really full of prunes.

At two o'clock, Cynthia took a shower. Meanwhile, the boutique delivered a set of new clothes. She changed into a fresh outfit.

After that, she headed to the TV station. The prime-time news segment was live, and it wasn't until half past seven that Cynthia finally left the TV building.

Jonathan's car was already parked at the entrance, waiting for her Cynthia opened the door and sat in the passenger seat. Fifteen minutes later, the car was parked in the courtyard of the Yates residence.

After getting out of the car, Jonathan didn't go into the house directly. Instead, he opened the trunk and took out a whole bunch of things.

Cynthia was surprised. "What are you doing?"

Jonathan smiled and said, "It's the first time that I'm meeting your parents. I can't show up empty-handed."

Cynthia chuckled. 'Does he really think of it as a meeting with the parents? Has he forgotten that this used to be my in-laws 12:11 Tue, Nov 5 t B

Chapter 73

home?

But Cynthia didn't say anything. She even helped Jonathan take Pamela saw Jonathan's car and came out to greet them. Cynthia

Cynthia greeted Pamela before introducing Jonathan to her. "Tha

Pamela greeted Jonathan with enthusiasm, saying, "Welcome, Mi time meeting you in person."

"Mrs, Yates, please feel free to call me Jon," Jonathan said with mask from our cosmetics line at B

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