Chapter 239 It Was Time to End All of This
Susanna paused, already aware of Wendy's antics from the night before. Feeling uneasy, she said, "I know Wendy's the anonymous tipster."
"If it were that simple, why would I be here? A classmate saw Wendy cozying up to a rich heir. She's been flaunting brand-name bags and cosmetics around the dorm," Flandre explained.
"A rich heir?" Susanna immediately thought of Erica. That explained Wendy's actions.
Flandre showed her phone. "I found a photo. It's definitely the woman trying to steal your husband, the Jones family heir."
"It's Erica," Susanna confirmed, recognizing her in the photo.
Despite everything, Susanna hadn't noticed anything off. Wendy always acted like a loyal friend.
"Thanks for the heads-up, Flandre."
"Be careful with these rich folks. After exams, leave Lindwell ASAP. I doubt that bitch will let you off," Flandre advised.
Susanna smiled and hugged her. "I'm lucky to have you. Once I'm settled, you can visit me."
Flandre had to get back to work, so they parted ways after a brief chat.
Soon after, the principal called Susanna to the office, but Wendy was missing.
Wendy's counselor said, "We can't reach her. She didn't come back to the dorm last night. Wendy's always been a loner, thinking the world is against her because she's an orphan. Everyone's busy with graduation and can't cater to her whims."
Susanna finally understood Wendy's social struggles. She had empathized with Wendy because they both came from the same orphanage, but now it was clear Wendy had been deceiving her.
Susanna checked the time. "Let the school handle it. I need to get back to studying."
Since Wendy was being used by Erica, Susanna felt no extra sympathy.
Meanwhile, Erica waited at the airport for Edward. Today was crucial for her. If she could get Wendy to replace Susanna as the Jones family heir, it would be perfect.
Soon, a group emerged from the VIP passage. Edward and his wife led, followed by Arthur and Justin, who wore a mask and hat. They quickly left.
Erica stepped forward with a smile. "Edward, Arthur, Justin."
Justin sneered, "Save it. I've never acknowledged you as our sister. Now that we've found our real sister, prepare to leave the Jones family."
Erica's eyes narrowed, but she stayed calm. "I've always known my place and never tried to replace the real heir. I'm grateful to the Jones family and have been looking for her. As soon as I had a lead, I told you."
Justin sneered, "Who knows if you're sincere or just trying to fool us?"
Erica's eyes flickered. "How could you think that? Edward, you must trust me."
Edward stayed calm and glanced at Erica. "Where's the person you found?"
"At my place. I'll take you there now," Erica replied quickly.
A dark look crossed Erica's face as she led Edward and the others out of the airport. They split up and took their own cars.
Aviana looked at Edward. "I think Erica's up to something."
"Whatever it is, we'll find out soon. It's a shame Susanna lost her childhood memories. Otherwise, she'd know what Erica did to keep us from finding her," Edward said, frowning. He regretted bringing Erica back from the orphanage.
The cars soon arrived at Erica's place, but before anyone could get out, the secretary rushed over, panicked. "Ms. Jones, Wendy is missing."
Erica's face changed. "How could she be missing? Find her!"
"We've searched everywhere and can't find her."
Erica pulled out her phone to call Wendy, but it was off. She saw a WhatsApp message from Wendy: [Ms. Jones, if you want my help, fix my expulsion issue. I can't afford to be expelled.]
Edward and his group got out of the car, his demeanor icy. "Where is she?" he demanded.
Erica forced a smile. "Edward, she felt overwhelmed and needed a moment. I'll find her and make sure she's okay."
Edward had enough. He threw a signed document at her. "Erica, this is a termination agreement. Whether you sign it or not, your citizenship and residence have been transferred to Lindwell as of today.
Erica chased after him, shocked. "Edward, are you kicking me out just because you found your real sister? I helped find her too!"
Aviana blocked Erica. "We don't need your help. We'll find her ourselves."
As Edward's car drove away, Erica turned to her secretary. "We must find Wendy first, or they'll find Susanna through her!"
She couldn't let Susanna return to the Jones family and take everything from her.
That evening, Susanna came home to find her six brothers gathered in the living room.
Smiling, she asked, "Weren't you all supposed to arrive tomorrow?"
Edward, with a warm tone, said, "We finished work early and decided to surprise you."
They had planned to deal with Erica in the afternoon, but since the imposter wasn't there, he didn't bother pretending with her.
Aviana gently held Susanna's hand, her eyes warm. "Susanna, I heard you have a graduation banquet before the exams. We'll all attend as your family."
Justin, resting his chin on his palm, added, "Susanna, why didn't you tell us about such an important banquet earlier?"
Touched by their presence, Susanna felt emotional. "I thought you were all busy with work. The trip from Novaria to Lindwell is long, and I didn't want to inconvenience you."
But who wouldn't want their family at such an important event?
Aviana squeezed Susanna's hand and announced, "Susanna, we're here to escort you back personally, and we have a special surprise for you at the banquet."
Little did Susanna know, they planned to reveal her true identity at the event—as the long-lost heir to the prestigious Jones family of Novaria!