Her Hidden Crowns (Suzanne and Austin) novel Chapter 14

Mandy pondered for a moment before raising her eyes. Her tone softened as she tried to reassure Seline. "Seline, don't worry. Jenson's interest in her is just because of her identity as Jane."

"I know. But now, Jenson knows she's special. Mom, I'm so scared. I worked so hard to win Jenson over!" This time, Seline couldn't hold back her tears. She was terrified.

Mandy narrowed her eyes as a malicious glint flashed in them. Lowering her voice, she said, "If she's dead, the problem will be solved."

Seline's head snapped up, her gaze locking on Mandy. "Are you saying…"

Mandy stood and walked over to the bedside table. She picked up a grape from the fruit tray and smashed it in her fingers. The once-intact grape burst, its juices spilling out. She stared at the crushed fruit in her hand, a cold smile curling her lips. "Just like this grape. She can't do anything once she's broken."

Seline's face turned pale. "Mom, killing someone is illegal. If you…"

Mandy sneered, "Illegal? What's there to fear? I killed her mother back then. Do you think I can't do the same to her?"

"But—" Seline's anxiety deepened.

Mandy cut her off with an icy tone. "Do you really think your father cares about you? He's always been cold-hearted. How else could he abandon Suzanne's mother? He hasn't even visited her grave. He only favors you because you're more useful than Suzanne."

Seline froze, wanting to say something but falling silent instead. Mandy's words hit her hard.

Mandy continued, "Once your father knows Suzanne is Jane, with all that influence, do you think he'll still care about us?"

Seline's face went ashen. "But… I'm scared they'll find out…"

Mandy tossed the crushed grape into the trash and pulled a tissue from the cabinet. She meticulously wiped her fingers clean, keeping her tone calm and resolute. "There's nothing to be afraid of. I have my ways. First, we'll gather information. Don't breathe a word about what happened at the hospital to your father."

Seline nodded frantically, her panic evident. Mandy's lips curled into a faint smile as she reached out to gently wipe the tears from Seline's face. Her voice softened. "The butler has a close relative working for Alan. Just focus on being your charming self and leave the rest to me."

With that, Mandy tossed the used tissue into the trash with a sharp flick.

Seline frowned slightly, glancing at her mother with concern. "Can we trust them?"

Mandy placed a reassuring hand on Seline's shoulder, giving it a gentle pat. "Of course. I'll handle everything. Seline, to achieve great things, you can't sweat the small stuff. You must stay calm and analyze the situation carefully. Don't panic. If you're ruthless enough, no one can be better than you. Do you understand?"

Seline nodded firmly. "I understand."

Mandy was right. Being ruthless was the only way to secure what she wanted.

Seline gripped Mandy's hand tightly, lifting her eyes to meet Mandy's gaze. "Mom, my happiness depends on you."

Mandy placed her hands on Seline's and reassured, "Of course. My daughter deserves to be the happiest woman alive."

A slow smile spread across Seline's face, though her eyes were filled with callous intent.

She silently swore she would destroy Suzanne.

…

It was two days later.

The Alvarez residence was situated on the outskirts of Dudore.

The area was surrounded by well-kempt gardens. The serene night was disturbed only by the occasional chirping of crickets. But the calm was suddenly shattered by the sound of something breaking.

Inside the villa, Alan lay on his bed, writhing in pain. His teeth clenched tightly, veins bulging across his body. His skin flushed with an unnatural shade of red.