Chapter: 1176

After Sean and Marlene went far, Hank and Elsa whispered to themselves.

“When Norah vanished, Sean seemed deeply in love with her, , unable to let go. However, it's barely been a year, and he's already replaced her."

"That woman is fortunate to resemble Norah. It looks like she's set for a wealthy future. Even if she's just a substitute, she could at least enjoy a life of Luxury.”

“Sadly for Norah, she's been gone for a year and who remembers her now? Even Gilda and Chayce have left, and Sean has found someone new.”

They exchanged glances, smirking disdainfully at Norah's memory.

This was Sean's first appearance at the banquet with a date since Norah's missing. Observing his gentle and patient manner towards Marlene, those familiar with Norah couldn't help but feel sorry for her.

The affection of wealthy individuals was unpredictable.

Derek and Madeline stood together.

"Derek, would you Leave me if something happened to me one day?"

"Of course not. I've promised to love you forever."

Madeline's gaze drifted to the woman by Sean's side. Unlike Norah, that woman displayed her vulnerability, evoking a protective instinct from those around her.

Norah, on the other hand, was independent and strong, capable of handling much on her own.

It was known that Norah still held a position in the cardiac surgery department at Silver Boulder Private Hospital, a testament to her exceptional abilities.

Hadn't Sean once promised Norah his everlasting love? Madeline was convinced he had. However, love seemed all too unreliable. As one of Glophia's most eligible bachelors, Sean had quickly turned into a womanizer after Norah's death, now parading around with his date. It was hard to believe in true love anymore.

"Hi, I'm Madeline Powell." At the banquet, Madeline picked up a glass of wine, noticed a woman sitting quietly on the sofa, and sat next to her.

“Hi, I'm Marlene Harrison." Marlene smiled gently, declining the drink Madeline offered. “Sorry, I can't drink."

“It's just a low-alcohol cocktail. You can drink it easily," Madeline reassured her, taking a sip herself. "I wanted to chat with you, but you almost shut me down right away."

Marlene, showing her innocence, accepted the glass and took a sip, surprised by its light, sparkling taste and continued drinking.

"Where are you from? I've never seen you in Glophia before. How long have you been with Mr. Scott?" Madeline inquired.

Blushing, Marlene replied, "I'm here for college. I lived in a small town before this."

She glanced towards Sean mingling with the influential crowd and clarified, "I don't have that kind of relationship with Sean. He once gave a lecture at my college and defended me from bullies. After learning about my situation, he offered to sponsor my education."

Madeline concealed a sneer. In her view, Marlene's face was the only reason Sean had taken an interest-not out of meddling but perhaps as a replacement for Norah, someone he had lost.

"I assumed you were together when I saw you earlier."

Marlene admitted, her expression gloomy as she fidgeted nervously, “I really like him, but it seems he's not interested in a relationship."