“And the victor of this competition is Maria!"

As Canaan personally disclosed the outcome, the Jenkins family was immediately immersed in an atmosphere of exuberance.

Some exclaimed with unrestrained excitement, others danced with unbridled joy and a cluster of individuals seemingly conjured up bottles of champagne from thin air. They merrily shook the bottles, causing the golden, mellifluous liquid to burst forth!

The lingering doubt regarding Barbara's victory had tormented the Jenkins family to no end.

Now that the championship had been decided, how could the Jenkins family not be filled with jubilation?

Unquestionably, Maria became the center of attention. Hundreds of individuals clamored to reach her, introducing themselves and offering congratulations.

In a matter of minutes, Maria found herself surrounded by a multitude of people, each claiming some sort of connection to her.

However, amidst the jubilant crowd, a select few opted to make a swift retreat.

Vivian was the first to depart, pondering a pressing question as she walked away: which outcome would bring her greater despair, Barbara or Maria claiming the title of champion?

Simultaneously, Barbara also made her exit, devoid of interest in second place.

Mrs. Jenkins, having meticulously orchestrated everything beforehand, ensured that the disparity in resources provided by the Jenkins family between the champion and the runner-up was akin to night and day!

Mrs. Jenkins herself departed as well.

She instructed Doris to help her leave the premises. Yet before they could take more than a few steps to the exit, Canaan intercepted them.

“Mrs. Jenkins, wouldn't it be fitting for you to stay and personally present an award to the champion?"

After enduring years of desolation, Canaan finally experienced a glimmer of elation. How could he not be filled with excitement?

"Well..."

Mrs. Jenkins halted, turning to face Canaan.

“To be honest, I haven't been feeling well lately. Although I truly desire to personally bestow the award upon the champion, I fear my strength may not suffice to hold the trophy... Ahem! Canaan, your standing within the family is only slightly inferior to mine. I am convinced that Maria would be deeply honored to receive the award from you."

“But...”

Canaan furrowed his brow, as though he had swallowed a fly.

He wagered that if Barbara had emerged as the champion, Mrs. Jenkins would have orchestrated a grand ceremony, personally presenting the trophy to Barbara!

“It's not of great consequence. The capable ones should do more work. Canaan, I entrust this task to you, and I rest assured in doing so."

With those words, Mrs. Jenkins departed without hesitation.

Canaan stood there helplessly, his gaze fixed on Mrs. Jenkins as she made her exit.