Chapter 101 Matters of Status
Jonathan flipped the invitation over in his han
‘merous times, still feeling bewildered by the unexpected development. It was unusual enough that the Ivan family was organizing a birthday party, but for it to be for their elusive daughter made it even more curious.
“Hadn’t there been talk that the Ivan family was planning to hand over all their assets to the youngest daughter? The grand scale of this birthday party must be related to that,” he pondered aloud. Although this rumor had circulated throughout high society, most considered it far–fetched, given the three sons in the Ivan family. But now it seemed this might be the only explanation for the extravagance of the event.
“If that’s true, I should prepare something special. If I could build a relationship with the Ivan family’s youngest daughter, wouldn’t my own family stand a chance at a partnership?” Jonathan’s mind. raced at the thought. After all, an alliance with the Ivan family was coveted by many.
Cyril glanced at Jonathan, knowing his thoughts were shared by many. However, there was one crucial consideration: whether a girl born into such wealth was just a figurehead or truly capable.
“If you’re looking for a shortcut, I can only wish you success. Everyone wants it, but not everyone can achieve it,” Cyril remarked, deliberately provoking thought. His words carried weight, prompting a heavy sigh from Jonathan, who felt a sting at the reality of the situation.
“It’s better to think of your own strategies than to rely on such dubious methods, which are unlikely to work,” Cyril advised finally.
Jonathan nodded, though it seemed like there were few alternatives.
Time flew by, and the day of the birthday banquet arrived. The invitation list included nearly every notable family, underscoring just how seriously the Ivan family considered this occasion. Hosting such an event for their youngest daughter signified that she must hold an especially cherished place within the family.
Sylvia had planned to accompany her brothers but ended up arriving alone due to some last- minute business at the company. As she approached the venue, she saw someone waiting for
her at the entrance. It was Duncan.
His eyes lit up when he saw Sylvia, and he greeted her with a broad smile as he walked over.
Sylvia, adjusting her dress, inquired, “What are you doing here?”
“Juliet was supposed to wait for you here, but she got called away by her family. She asked me to wait for you instead. She mentioned tha brother has arranged a surprise for you and didn’t want you to get lost, so here I am,” Duncan explained, albeit the reason seeming a little contrived. Regardless, Sylvia didn’t call him out on it.
“Oh, I see. Well, let’s head in together,” Sylvia suggested.
As they walked to the entrance, no one barred their path, evidently recognizing them. But just as they were about to enter, they were stopped by none other than Bonnie.
Holding the invitation that had been scrutinized numerous times, Jonathan was still astounded. It was a rarity for the Ivan family to be organizing a birthday party, let alone for their secluded young daughter.
“Weren’t there rumors that the Ivan family was planning to transfer all their assets to their youngest daughter? If they’re putting on such a grand birthday event, it is probably for that reason,” he mused. While most considered this gossip to be just that–gossip–given the extent of the celebration, it seemed like an adequate explanation.
“If that’s the case, then what kind of gift should I prepare? Establishing a connection with the Ivan family’s youngest daughter might lead to future collaborations, wouldn’t it?” Jonathan’s mind raced with the possibilities, eager at the prospect of an alliance with such a
powerful family.
Cyril glanced at Jonathan, knowing that this notion must be occurring to many others as well. However, one question lingered: how capable was this daughter, born into such
affluence?
“If you’re seeking a shortcut, then I wish you luck. But remember, everyone wants the easy path, and not everyone succeeds,” Cyril said pointedly, his words resonating with a sobering reality that made Jonathan sigh deeply.
“Instead of fussing about collaborating with the Ivan family, why not consider other strategies? Relying on underhanded means will get you nowhere,” Cyril added as a final piece of advice.
Nodding, Jonathan realized that aside from this potential opportunity, there weren’t many options left.
As the birthday banquet drew near, the Ivan family’s invitation list included virtually every distinguished lineage–one could easily see the significance of this event. That they were
throwing such a magnificent party for their daughter only stoked everyone’s curiosity and speculation about her true status.
Sylvia planned to attend with her brothers, br
–
‘ast–minute snag at the company meant
she arrived alone. She was greeted at the entrance by Duncan.
“Why are you here?” Sylvia inquired, adjusting her attire.
“Juliet was supposed to meet you, but family obligations pulled her away. She asked me to wait for you instead. Your brother mentioned a surprise he’s prepared for you, and didn’t want you to get lost. So here I am,” Duncan explained, though his excuse seemed less than genuine. Nevertheless, Sylvia didn’t challenge him.
“Alright, let’s go in together,” Sylvia suggested as they proceeded toward the entrance without any obstruction. Everyone seemed to recognize the pair.
But just as they were about to step in, they were halted by none other than Bonnie–who had no invitation and awaited Cyril to gain entry. She was irked to see Sylvia walk in unchallenged while she had to wait.
you
“What class do you belong to, thinking you can come here today? What business do have here? It’s sickening to see people like you loitering around,” Bonnie snarled, unleashing harsh words upon Sylvia. Duncan was about to confront Bonnie when Sylvia stopped him.
“What class I am and whether I can enter, what should it matter to you? Can you enter as freely as I can? If not, then I suggest you keep your mouth shut.” With that, Sylvia led Duncan inside, leaving Bonnie fuming in place. She felt everyone’s scrutinizing eyes upon her, adding insult to injury.
Blaming Sylvia for her predicament, Bonnie suspected Sylvia must have ingratiated herself with someone even more powerful to flaunt her access. But who could compare to the Ivan family’s influence?
Standing there embarrassed, Bonnie readily followed Cyril when he finally arrived-
business at the company had delayed him, and the indirect result of his late arrival vexed
Bonnie to near madness.
“Why have you just arrived? Do you know Sylvia came in with another man? What’s there for her to show off? Without relying on men, she wouldn’t have been able to step foot into a banquet like this,” Bonnie complained bitterly to her brother, exaggerating the story she
recounted to him.
Cyril, hearing this, briefly pictured Duncan’s face. “Don’t worry so much. Let’s just go inside, ” he urged, pushing the notion out of his mind. Sylvia accompanying whomever enters had
nothing to do with him.
Disappointed by her brother’s lack of support, Bonnie knew better than to let her temper loose at this moment. She composed herself and followed Cyril into the venue, stepping into the lavishly decorated space that screamed annonce. Every adornment was a testament to the Ivan family’s wealth.
“Aren’t they going overboard with just a little birthday party?” Bonnie’s envy was palpable; her own celebrations had never come close to this level. But there was little she could do- the host was the Ivan family’s youngest daughter, after all.