Chapter: 3

When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin.

“Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Norah looked down, saying nothing in response.

Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?”

Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah.

"I'll choose another villa for you."

Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. “But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"

Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."

Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."

"Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek,"

Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."

Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words.

Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this.

“What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said.

Madeline snuggled up to Derek, the open neckline of her shirt revealing much of her soft skin. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder.

Norah's response was icy. “I'm laughing at how foolish I've been.”

Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock.

Derek, outraged, yelled, “Norah, have you lost your mind?"

Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."

Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men.

Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah forcefully. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"

She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. “Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."

Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."

Her drenched white shirt clung to her, highlighting her elegant frame.