Return Of The Real Heiress: Secrets And Masks novel Chapter 6

The early summer night had cast its spell, the sky ablaze with stars against the dark canvas.

On the outskirts of Betrico, the Havenwood Estates stood in all their golden grandeur, a beacon of wealth against the night. This was the heart of Betrico's high society, where the city's most influential families resided.

Among the elite, the Chivers family loomed large, with the Simpson, Chambers, and Leach families in their shadow. The Leach family, once a powerhouse, had been fading since Jacob took control.

The Leach manor, a symbol of grandeur and luxury, was composed of three separate but interconnected buildings.

The grandest of the three buildings, the main house, was where Jacob and his family enjoyed a life of luxury. The east wing of the manor was occupied by the family's third branch, and the west wing was the domain of Oliver and his eldest lineage.

The patriarch's immediate family was small and close, having been reduced to just Andy and his mother after a car accident took the life of Andy's father years prior. Oliver had since moved in with them, strengthening their bond under one roof.

The main house was a beacon of extravagance.

On the second floor, Mandy Leach relaxed, smelling of expensive perfume. Wearing fancy jewelry and bright red lipstick, she slowly moved a glass of red wine, looking rich and attractive.

Beside Mandy, her daughter Shirley Leach sat, bearing a strong resemblance to her mother. Clad in a red dress that highlighted her figure, Shirley had a beautiful face, impeccable makeup, and her nicely done nails tapped anxiously.

Shirley Lewis, now called Shirley Leach, joined the Leach family when Jacob married Mandy less than six months after Claire's death.

Shirley, then four, was just a year younger than Cherise. Initially introduced as an adopted daughter, her impressive qualities made her a recognized member of the Leach family in Betrico.

"Mom, I'm scared Cherise will ruin my engagement to Jeffrey. It was Cherise's mother who arranged the match with the Chambers. She must be here to take him away. Mom, you have to help me," Shirley pleaded, her face filled with anxiety.