Chapter: 1412

Elsa's smile stiffened. Confronted by Norah, she blurted out her spiel without much thought.

Regretting her words instantly, Elsa wished she could take them back.

Her thoughts were scrambled, her words disjointed.

She failed to notice Norah's direct use of Iker's name, omitting the title "Uncle".

"I'm actually here to discuss Marlene's situation with you. We recognize the injustice done to you, so my father sent me to offer you fifty million to keep this quiet. And when the time is right, we'll reintegrate you into the Wilson family."

Elsa pulled a bank card from her bag and placed it before Norah.

"The PIN is your birthday."

Was this hush money? For fifty million compared to the entire Wilson estate, Norah knew her choice.

She intended to take the money and reclaim her family assets as well.

Norah picked up the bank card gracefully. “I'm relieved to hear that. I thought I had been completely forsaken."

With the money in hand, Norah felt ready to play along with their charade.

A flicker of mockery crossed Elsa's eyes. Indeed, money was a universal temptation; if it didn't suffice, perhaps the amount wasn't enough.

Would Norah seethe with anger if she discovered the bank account linked to the card was empty?

Oh, she wouldn't have time to ponder that, as she'd be preoccupied with another matter soon.

"Norah, how could you think such a thing? You know our family holds you in high regard. Nobody wishes for this kind of situation." Elsa feigned wiping tears from her eyes. “Today we're celebrating my father's birthday. Let's put aside those unpleasant matters."

She signaled a waiter for a fresh glass of wine.

"We haven't toasted yet. Let's drink to let bygones be bygones. And remember, if you ever need anything, just ask me."

She slid the glass toward Norah, her eyes warm and inviting.

“Remember last year at my birthday? You managed to outdrink my dad and brother. You wouldn't turn me down now, would you?"

Norah tucked the bank card into her purse and lifted the glass, bringing it close to her nose. Detecting a sweet aroma that wasn't typical of wine, she smiled.

“Of course, I'll join you."

Their glasses clinked together, echoing crisply.

As Elsa watched eagerly, Norah pressed her lips to the glass and downed the contents.

Elsa's breath hitched, surprised at how smoothly everything was unfolding.