After passing out the gifts, Cynthia and Filip headed to their table near the entrance. It was still empty, so they lingered by the side.

Suddenly, Filip’s phone buzzed. He checked it and quickly walked toward the side door leading to the garden.

Cynthia knew it was Lilian calling, but she didn’t mind. Instead, he admired the antique decor in the banquet hall.

The entire wall was lined with stunning Victorian ceramics, which were truly breathtaking.

Before long, a young girl approached. “Are you Mrs. Yates?”

Cynthia turned and replied, “How can I help you?”

“I’m Cherry White, the granddaughter of the commander from the Betrico military district. Can I ask about your Laron Floral Essence formula?”

Before Cynthia could answer, Cherry added, “I’ll buy the formula from you."

Cynthia smiled. “It’s not a big secret. I make it just for fun. If you want it, I’ll just give it to you.”

Cherry’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Really? You’d give it to me?”

“Yeah, just add me on WhatsApp, and I’ll send you the formula tonight.” Cynthia smiled.

"Any price.”

Cherry quickly added Cynthia on WhatsApp. Soon, several other girls joined them. “I want it too. Can you add my WhatsApp, Mrs. Yates?”

Cynthia was surprised by the sudden crowd but added them all, promising to share the formula later.

After all, these girls- were either the mayor’s daughters, wealthy heiresses, or the granddaughters of high–ranking officials.

Shirley watched from a distance, fuming. She gritted her teeth and complained to Selena, “Mom, are they all clueless? Why are these Betrico girls trying to impress Cynthia? What’s in it for them?”

Selena stayed composed. “They aren’t naive. All the guests brought fancy gifts, but only Cynthia stood out to Susanna. They want the formula to win over her in the future. After all, one of them will likely marry into the Bennett family.”

Shirley scoffed, “What’s the point of impressing Susanna? Jonathan will marry whoever he wants. Maybe he doesn’t even like- those polished princesses. Maybe he prefers a rebellious Cinderella.”

Selena seemed to read her mind. “Shirley, the Jones family is one of the top families in Roncrity, but we can’t compete with the Betrico girls. The Bennett family is out of our league. But honey, I will definitely find you a good match in Roncrity.”

“Mom, you know Roncrity can’t compete with Betrico. But people are always looking for something better. Why can’t I give or it a shot? Maybe Jonathan will like me,” Shirley insisted, ambition flickering in her eyes.

Selena shook her head, looking a bit helpless. She knew social class was a tough barrier to cross.

Wealthy folks were more practical than ordinary people, especially those from prestigious families, who prioritized social standing.

The idea of a prince and a Cinderella only existed in fairy tales.

Meanwhile, the Betrico girls gathered around Cynthia, eager to chat with her.

Cynthia played along, relishing the attention, but she could sense the competition simmering beneath the surface.

“I saw him last month, and he said I looked pretty.”

“Please! Before Susanna sent out those invites, nobody knew Jon was even in Roncrity. You’re making that up.”

“Okay, maybe I exaggerated a bit, but seriously, is it cringy to call him Jon? Do you even know him? I bet you’ve.