Maria could choose whichever one she wanted. Even if Anthony found out in the future that she was not their biological daughter and divorced her, she could sell the jewelry and she would have enough to live a long and comfortable life.

"It's really not necessary," Maria answered coldly.

Julie was rather disappointed. She was genuinely trying to be kind. Why didn't Maria appreciate her kindness?

“But thank you for your kindness, really."

Julie was surprised by Maria's words and her heart warmed up.

Maria resented the other members of the Jenkins family probably as much as they resented her. But she treated Julie differently.

Julie was now in a better mood. Even her anger at having being forced to give away the jade bracelet was swept away.

She didn't want Vivian or Bill to know that she shared a ‘good' relationship with Maria.

It was her own secret. Just like how Vivian and Patricia kept their secrets from her.

This time, Julie was determined to keep it a secret from her family.

“Maria!"

Julie shouted out to her, just as she was about to leave the room with her suitcase.

Maria stopped in her tracks and Looked at Julie silently.

“I... I haven't eaten the noodles cooked by you in a long time. Could you please cook some of your delicious noodles for me before you go?" Julie's request was a small one.

One of the reasons she Liked Maria, her adopted daughter, was that she was such a great cook. Her noodles were to die for. And that bowl of noodles Maria made warmed both Julie's stomach and soul at that night.

Julie couldn't forget the taste, but she was too embarrassed to ask like a greedy Little glutton.

But today, Maria was leaving. Julie knew it was the last chance to ask her to cook that amazing noodles that only she could.

“Would you please?" Julie asked nervously.

Maria stared at Julie for a long time before she nodded her head.

“I need to use the kitchen." Then Maria went directly to the kitchen.