Abandoned by All I Took It All Back novel Chapter 526

She snorted, her voice dripping with dissatisfaction.

“Janina, what is that tone? You should know better. If it weren’t for the Aurelius family, do you really think any of these people would have shown up for the children’s birthday party? We’re doing you a favor, giving you face. You should be grateful, not acting so entitled.”

“Giving me face? Do Liam and Joy need to network? Or are they trying to make a living? What do they need ‘face’ for?” Janina shot back with a cold laugh, her eyes full of scorn.

“Mrs. Aurelius, I have nothing to do with your family anymore, and the children’s last name isn’t Aurelius. It’s ridiculous for you to insert yourselves into their lives like this!”

Julius frowned. They had come today with sincerity, hoping to mend their relationship with Janina.

Liam and Joy were his children, after all. It was only natural for him to take the lead in organizing a party for them.

It was Yvonne's idea, actually. She had suggested that doing something for the children would be a good way to repair his relationship with Janina.

He couldn't understand where all this anger was coming from.

Shouldn't she be happy? Touched, even?

Julius looked at Janina, his tone even. “It’s Liam and Joy’s birthday today. Let’s just try to be happy. We can talk about whatever’s bothering you after the party is over. Besides, we invited these guests. They could be very helpful for the children’s futures.”

He said it so matter-of-factly that Janina almost laughed in his face. “And I suppose I should get on my knees and thank you for it?”

“Janina, must you ruin the mood like this?” Julius’s expression darkened instantly.

Before Janina could respond, Ethan stood up, his gaze fixed on Julius and Elena.

“Listen here, both of you. My daughter is no longer associated with the Aurelius family. Those children are our family’s treasures. We don’t object if you, as their biological relatives, want to visit them sincerely. But what you did today—making decisions without consulting anyone and then acting so self-righteous about it—is disrespectful to the Holt family. You are not welcome here.”

Ethan thought his words might make the Aurelius family reflect on their actions.

Then she turned to Julius and his mother, pointing to an adjacent table. “You can sit there and eat.”

Julius glanced at the other table, then back at Janina’s. He couldn't hold it in any longer, his voice tight with anger.

“What is that supposed to mean? I’m their father. Why should I sit at another table? I’m sitting here.”

If word got out, who knew what people would say? Many of his business partners were here today, and he had a reputation to uphold.

Janina just shrugged. “This table is full. Take that one or leave it.”

With that, she ignored them and began serving herself food as if nothing had happened.

Elena was about to explode, but Julius pulled her back and guided her to a seat at the other table.