The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 222

Everyone at the table froze for a moment. When Michael saw Crystal walk in, his expression darkened, and the four kids sitting nearby crossed their arms, scowling in unison.

Crystal paused awkwardly in the doorway, unsure what to do with herself. By contrast, Emily—who’d followed her in—was practically glowing with excitement. For her, setting foot inside the Thompsons’ grand home felt like stepping into a dream.

George was the first to break the silence. “Crystal, since you’re back, you might as well join us for dinner. Don’t just stand there.”

Mrs. Thomson quickly turned to the housekeeper. “Please, set out two more places at the table.”

Ever since the last two incidents, George and Mrs. Thomson had grown deeply disappointed in Crystal, but for the sake of family, they hadn’t pressed the matter.

Crystal took full advantage of that goodwill. Still wearing the title of ‘Ms. Thomson’ with pride, she sat down cheerfully. “Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Dad.”

The only thing that soured her mood was seeing Rebecca had returned as well.

As they ate, Michael suddenly turned to Crystal. “So, what brings you back so suddenly? Samuel told me you’ve been busy starting your own business lately—so swamped you barely have time to come home.”

Crystal smiled. “That’s right. I’ve been working hard to build something of my own. I want to accomplish something for myself, just like Matthew, Samuel, William, and you, Michael. I don’t want to just live off the family name and do nothing useful.”

As she finished, Crystal shot Rebecca a provocative glance—Rebecca was, after all, the only one at the table with no job and no career.

Michael smirked. “Well, at least you’re self-aware. The Thompsons may be wealthy, but money doesn’t grow on trees. We don’t support freeloaders.”

Trying to win him over, she pressed on, “And your last award-winning piece—it practically set a new standard for the whole industry. You’re a real trendsetter.”

Michael gave her a sidelong look, his tone skeptical. “A trendsetter, huh? That’s news to me. Tell me, what trend exactly did I start?”

“I… you started…” Emily faltered, unable to come up with an answer.

Crystal quickly tried to defuse the situation. “Michael, stop giving Emily such a hard time.”

Michael let out a laugh. “I’m not trying to make things difficult. I’m just genuinely curious. I always thought not everyone could understand music. If you don’t get it and just spout empty praise, it only makes you look more foolish.”