Although Benjamin merely said two short sentences, the fact that he called Shannon Ms. Jensen meant that he acknowledged her identity as the daughter of the Jensen family.
He represented the Coopers, and his attitude toward Shannon also determined that Seastone's elite circle had to acknowledge Shannon as a Jensen, too, regardless of what others might feel about her.
Shannon looked at Benjamin, who sparkled in gold, and smiled faintly. "You're not late, Mr. Cooper. You came right on time."
She turned back to Francis, her smile fading. She said curtly, "The Grays put a roof over my head for 18 years. All in all, you spent not more than five million dollars on me. Prior to this, I've already transferred the money back to you."
Francis' gaze hardened, while the other guests were in disbelief.
To an ordinary family, spending five million dollars on a child was indeed a significant figure. However, to people like them, five million dollars was a pittance.
If the Grays had only spent five million dollars on Shannon, that meant they had been neglecting her all along. Instantly, they all started eyeing Francis in derision again.
Still looking at Francis, Shannon calmly continued, "Furthermore, I've already helped Rachel avoid death once. I've repaid any debt I owe the Grays for raising me. From now on, I don't owe you guys anything."
Francis' eyes bulged out, and his jaw trembled. He could no longer continue to keep up his pretense.
Meanwhile, Adam's heart twanged in pain. He thought that Shannon had suffered so much during her time with the Grays, so he followed up with a warning of his own.
"From today onward, Shannon, my daughter, no longer has anything to do with the Grays," he declared icily.
"Since you did take Shannon in, we Jensens won't do anything to you. However, if you dare to use our name for anything, don't blame us for not showing any mercy."
Now that the Grays were gone, the banquet resumed. George led Shannon around the room to introduce her to the elders of the various families.
When that was done, Shannon was surprised to see that Benjamin was still around. Technically speaking, she was shocked that he even showed up. She could tell he didn't like these sorts of events. Out of curiosity, she decided to ask him about it.
Benjamin seemed to have been expecting her question. He glanced at Hector before saying calmly, "He said I needed to take responsibility for you."
Shannon, who had just picked up a glass of champagne, trembled so violently at the answer that she nearly spilled the champagne on Benjamin.
Eyes widening, she looked at him questioningly.
What was he taking responsibility for? Why would she need him to take responsibility for her?
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