Joan jumped in right away, her tone calm and clear. “Please don’t get the wrong idea. I’m just here to keep Ben company. I won’t be seen by anyone. Once we arrive, I’ll stay in the back lounge. Only the Duncan family’s staff will know I’m here.”
That actually sounded reasonable.
The old man looked over at Stephen, who just shrugged as if to say, “Whatever you decide, Grandpa, I’m fine with it.”
That attitude made George’s blood pressure spike. It was Stephen’s own son’s banquet, yet he acted like he had nothing to do with it.
Time was ticking, guests were already arriving, and the party was about to start. No matter how much George wanted to dig his heels in, he had to give in.
“Alright, you can come with Ben,” he said into the phone, voice heavy.
Joan smiled, soft and gentle. “Thank you for understanding.”
Twenty minutes later, a driver pulled up at the back entrance of the Duncan estate. Joan got out, carrying Ben. She was just about to head inside when the butler arrived in a hurry and blocked her path.
“Ms. Knotts.” He nodded politely, then gestured for her to follow. “Let me show you the way.”
Joan’s smile faded a little. She pressed her lips together before replying, “I actually lived here when I was a kid. I know the place really well.”
The butler gave her a knowing smile. “I’ve heard a bit about your past. Still, Mr. Duncan asked me to take special care of you today. Let me lead the way.”
Joan nodded politely. “Of course, thank you.”
She knew exactly what was going on. The old man didn’t trust her. He was worried she’d change her mind and cause trouble.
Joan looked down for a moment.
Relax, Mr. Duncan. I’m not that reckless. If I wanted to stir things up, I’d at least wait until the banquet was officially over.
Her son deserved to return to the Duncan family in the open, with everyone’s blessing.

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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Betrayed and Dumped She Rose Stronger Than Ever
The ending seems abrupt. Is it like a cliffhanger? I was expecting more. A lot of questions are unanswered....
Why is the story tagged as complete when I think the chapters are incomplete and it hasn’t ended yet?...
Can't wait for the next update! 😍...
Honestly, Rebecca's mother needs to be called out for pettiness. At the same time, Rebecca needs to explain her work situation to her mother....
Gosh, I have to stop here (Chapter 301) ^_^ Thanks for the updates! 😍 Btw, Chapter 390 is not completed...waiting for the rest of the chapters❣️...
Thanks for updating. Please upload more chapters...
Update please...
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Will we ever get any updates, please?...