Chapter: 300

Her jab suggested Madeline had left her ex-husband for financial gain, chasing after Derek instead.

"I've heard Mr. Carter's ex-wife is quite the talk of Glophia. She was even seen at the Scott family auction with Mr. Scott, leading a lavish life," Zara added.

Madeline seethed at the thought of Norah, blaming the latter for her current need to shop frugally despite Derek's previous generosity.

Hearing her sisters' snide comments, Madeline responded with a scornful Laugh, "They're divorced, mere strangers now. What's it to Derek? But Zara, I might have seen your husband at the Glamour Club the other day, cozying up to a beautiful woman. It was just a glimpse, so I didn't get a picture. Maybe you should question him when you get home."

Zara turned ashen. She was no stranger to her husband's infidelities.

Their marriage was a sham, barely holding together for appearances.

“Ursula, talking about pressure, I once saw Julio at the Glamour Club, splurging a grand or two on drinks. He seemed quite the spender," Madeline continued.

Ursula's expression soured instantly. With the family's finances tight, why was her husband splurging on expensive alcohol? Did he even consider her and the children?

“Madeline, are you mistaken? Julio always comes straight home after work. He doesn't frequent bars or similar places!" Ursula defended her husband. “He loves me and our children very much. Don't spread rumors about him."

"Ursula, just dismiss it as hearsay from me." Madeline smiled cryptically. "The gifts I've given have never been returned. How about we have a meal together and reminisce about our sisterly bond?"

Zara replied icily, “I've informed my husband that I'll be having dinner at home. Let's arrange to meet another time. Based on your demeanor, it seems you'll be staying in Glophia for a while longer."

Her words indicated her disinterest in further interaction.

Ursula also declined, "My children are waiting for me to cook for them. Perhaps another time. I'll take my leave now."

Two minutes later, both Zara and Ursula departed, leaving Madeline alone in the mall. She gripped her phone, anticipating a call from Derek, who was aware she was at the mall but hadn't bothered to inquire about how she would get home. Worse, he had just scolded her over her spending a few hundred thousand. Derek, whom she knew from the past, wasn't Like this.

Suddenly, Madeline pondered Zara's and Ursula's situations. Zara, aware of her husband's infidelity, lived a carefree and lavish life due to her husband's wealth. Conversely, Ursula, married to an average man, grappled with everyday trivialities, resulting in poor mental well-being.

Contemplating the Carter family's diminished wealth and Derek's altered demeanor, Madeline gnawed on her lip, grappling fiercely with inner turmoil. Derek, regardless of her actions, would love her eternally. Thus, why shouldn't she fight for her own happiness?

Meanwhile, in Norah's villa, Norah swung open the door to the guest room. "The bedding has just been replaced. Joanna stayed here previously. If it's not to your liking, I can arrange for a different room."

“That's fine. I'm only staying for one night," Susanna remarked.

Susanna placed her bag on the bedside table, noticing the pajamas and toiletries laid out. "Norah, your house is really spacious. Isn't it too big for just one person?"

Norah nodded with a smile. Truth be told, she owned more than just this property. She also had smaller apartments that were suitable for living alone. She opted to live in Dreamview Villas to avoid Derek.

Dreamview Villas was known for its top-notch security. Only residents could access it. Following the divorce, Norah opted to reside here to avoid any interference from Derek and Madeline.

The villa was mostly empty, with only her presence. She arranged for a housekeeper to maintain regular cleaning, resulting in the place often being deserted.

"Don't worry. I'm here for you. I might drop by from time to time, Norah." Susanna obediently smiled, her face mirroring Sean's, prompting Norah to mind wandering. In Sean's villa, there seemed to be a room reserved just for her. After spending some time there on different occasions, that room began to reflect her presence.

"Norah, since we're good friends now, can you reserve a room for me?