Chapter: 13

Joanna laughed heartily, rocking a pink strapless mini dress Like Norah's, looking delightful. "But I think even without me, you'd have handled them just fine!"

Norah looked down at her own hands, noting her slender shape and the soft pink of her nails, hands that few would guess could end a life in silence.

"Let's get back on track. Who was it that wanted to see me today?"

Norah steered the conversation back to the initial topic of their discussion.

Joanna, who had been thinking about how to keep their chat going, jumped in when Norah brought it up.

Seizing the moment to return to their earlier dialogue, Joanna replied with a sweet smile, "You know, the Hayes and Andrews families go way back. Mr. Devonte Hayes is seriously sick, and they're offering a big reward for the Supernatural Doctor to treat him. I accidentally let slip in front of my parents that I know the Supernatural Doctor. Now, they're on me to secure medical treatment from Supernatural Doctor. I promise I didn't spill anything else. I brought you here to unwind and maybe get under Derek's and Madeline's skin. Norah, you've got to believe me! I'm devoted to you! You can count on my loyalty. Norah, do you trust me?"

Joanna watched Norah anxiously, hoping her friend wouldn't turn her away.

Upon hearing Joanna's words, Norah took a moment to reflect. The Hayes and Andrews families were among the top four families in Glophia, with the Hayes known for their military service.

She recalled Devonte Hayes, a once-prominent military figure who had retired long ago.

Her dealings had mainly been with the Andrews family, rarely interacting with the other leading families in Glophia.

Joanna watched Norah closely, asking, "Norah, how did you figure it out without me saying anything about that?"

“Having been around you for so long, it's hard not to pick up on when you're holding something back."

Norah had caught Joanna's hesitant looks earlier, sensing she wanted to share something but was waiting for the right time.

Joanna, a bit embarrassed, chuckled. "You're always one step ahead, Norah. What's your drink of choice? Tonight's my treat! So, regarding the Hayes family..."

Norah raised her eyebrows and replied, “Set up a meeting to talk business, and then I'll decide if I'll offer to help. Now, I need to use the restroom."

Joanna responded immediately, "Okay!"

After leaving the restroom, Norah shook off the water from her hands and returned, accidentally running into Madeline, who was holding onto Derek.

Madeline was the first to speak. "What a surprise to bump into you here, Norah."

Norah paid Madeline no mind. She started questioning the widespread belief in Madeline's kindness and sensibility, sensing instead a manipulative streak in Madeline. Despite the day's earlier events, Madeline approached her with a smile, pretending as if nothing had occurred.

Derek couldn't contain his frustration when he saw Norah's glowing beauty. "Norah, this isn't your place. You shouldn't dress Like that. Are you really that keen to meet someone new?"

Norah casually glanced at Derek and said, "Where I go and what I wear is none of your business, Mr. Carter. You've got nothing to do with me anymore, anyways."

Norah recalled the times she looked after Derek with all her heart.

Even though he had saved her Life once, she felt she had repaid that favor. After all, she had helped him wake up from the coma. They were even. Plus, she had signed the divorce papers.

Derek's annoyance was evident as he said, "So you're desperate to stay away from me? Then why did you plead with me not to divorce today?"