Chapter: 325

"You're not too late if you head over now. We're waiting for you," another message from Kathy read.

Clutching his phone, Derek felt a surge of emotion. The longing for Norah was intense. Merely viewing her photo wasn't enough. He yearned for her presence, to be openly by her side.

From the bed, Madeline's voice broke through his thoughts. “Derek, who's messaging you?"

After saving the photo and erasing the message history, Derek turned to Madeline. “It's Kathy. She mentioned they're at the Wilson family's birthday celebration. I think we should join. Despite the divorce, I've maintained a cordial relationship with the Wilsons."

Madeline's interest piqued, and she sat up, eyes wide open. “Derek, are you referring to Norah's family?" she pressed.

“Yes, it's Mr. Wilson's birthday today. We were invited, but I forgot to tell you. The invitation's in the hallway drawer," Derek explained.

“Is Norah going to be there?" Madeline's voice tightened with concern.

The mention of the Wilson family brought only Norah to her mind, who had been a source of significant distress for her.

Derek averted his eyes. "Kathy mentioned Norah was there," he admitted, his voice soft.

"Well, we should definitely make an appearance then. Mr. Wilson is your ex-father-in-law, after all. It's only right we attend his birthday celebration." Madeline's words tinged with sarcasm. She then declared her intent to prepare for the event, "We need to present ourselves impeccably in front of Norah. We can't show any weakness."

As Madeline sifted through her wardrobe, selecting two vibrant red dresses, Derek offered a gentle suggestion, “Madeline, remember the white dress I got you? It really suits you and seems more fitting for today's occasion."

Taking his advice to heart, Madeline reconsidered and chose the white dress instead. "I'll go with your suggestion," she conceded.

Having stood in the banquet hall for a while, Norah eventually had two admirers who approached her.

"Miss Wilson, a pleasure to meet you," greeted one, clad in a gray suit. "I'm Emil Palmer. My family owns the Palmer Hotel. And this is Kalel Payne."

Norah, unimpressed, inquired, “What can I do for you?"

"We noticed you were here by yourself and thought you might appreciate some company," Emil explained their approach.

With a straight face, Norah quipped, "Oh, $10, 000 for a five-minute conversation. Will that be a bank transfer or cash?"

Kalel's demeanor shifted at her response. "Ever heard of the Payne Estate? I could offer a million. I won't beat around the bush. How much for your company for one night?"

Norah's expression turned frosty as she set her glass down with a distinct clink, her patience wearing thin. "Your wealth and who you are mean nothing to me. Isn't it obvious I'm not interested in talking?"

Emil attempted to smooth over the awkwardness with a smile. “We just thought you might be feeling a bit isolated, that's all. We meant no offense."

Norah remained silent, her face icy.

Emil nudged Kalel lightly, offering a conciliatory smile. "Miss Wilson, my friend here can be rather direct. He meant it in jest.”

“Oh, really? How much would it cost for you two to stop talking?"

Norah paused and added with a smirk, “Just kidding."