Unmasking Mrs. Newton's Secret Identities novel Chapter 1053

"What do I mean?" Johnny said firmly. "Your actions are already well-known. Without a formal commitment, how will you face anyone again? How will the Cunningham family ever reclaim its dignity?"

Fiona shook her head in disbelief, her voice filled with anguish. "You can't be this cruel to me—"

"It's too late," Johnny interrupted, his eyes closed as he made his decision. "You must marry Helios."

Helios was overjoyed by Johnny's words. Fiona, however, was left gasping for breath. Overcome by shock, she suddenly collapsed and lost consciousness.

As she drifted into darkness, she murmured, "I'm supposed to be Otto's wife. I don't want to be Mrs. Zacher. I want to be Mrs. Sheridan…"

Unbeknownst to her, Helios heard every word. He stared at the unconscious Fiona in disbelief, struggling to understand where everything had gone awry.

She had professed her love for him—had he misinterpreted her feelings?

Meanwhile, Johnny didn't wait for Helios to respond. He commanded firmly, "The doctor should still be here—send for him to examine Fiona. Also, get Ms. Estano to bring a change of clothes for her. Helios, you and I will go downstairs to handle the guests. Just stay quiet and let me take the lead."

Helios nodded mechanically.

Down in the grand ballroom, nearly all the guests had gathered. Amid the gossip, there were sure to be plenty of busybodies.

As soon as Johnny and Helios entered the ballroom, a ripple of speculation spread through the crowd.

"Do you think Johnny will punish Helios in front of everyone?"

"I doubt it; personal retribution is illegal."

"As a token of my apology, I have arranged a small gift for you at the door as you leave. I hope this will help offset the inconvenience. Also, I have an important announcement to make.

"My daughter, Fiona, got engaged to Helios last month. They are now officially betrothed!"

The guests erupted in shock. "What?"

Johnny steadied himself and added, "Yes, that's right. They intended to get their marriage certificate after today's birthday party.

"But amidst the festivities and a few too many drinks, their feelings naturally took over. In today's progressive society, such developments are not uncommon among young people…"

The seasoned guests nodded in understanding. "That makes sense. After all, they're both refined individuals in a romantic relationship—these kinds of things are quite common nowadays."