Chapter: 76

The receptionists nodded, stealing intrigued looks at Norah.

Madeline, stepping away from Derek, asked with a voice tinged with tears, "Miss Wilson, are you acquainted with the Solo Mio Restaurant owner?"

Under Norah's steady gaze, Madeline hesitated, then added, “I've heard that only those close to the owner can bypass the reservation requirement here."

Norah stayed quiet. The manager, beaming with pride, announced, “Miss Wilson is a VIP guest here, as per the owner's instructions to ensure she's always well taken care of. Please, Miss Wilson, this way.”

Norah, with a slight smile and glancing at the four faces showing various degrees of displeasure, felt a surge of gratification. "I appreciate it."

As Norah passed Derek, she murmured, "This Sunday."

Derek's puzzled look only made her smile more freely, her laughter echoing vibrantly.

The manager escorted Norah to an exclusive chamber upstairs, dedicating himself to her service to ensure she experienced unparalleled hospitality.

Derek couldn't shake the image of Norah's graceful presence from his thoughts. He recalled the woman's once tender actions contrasted with her current aloofness. Was it truly that simple for her to let go of her feelings for him? No, that wouldn't be possible. Norah must still harbor feelings for him.

Madeline asked softly, “Derek, how is it that Miss Wilson is considered a VIP by the Solo Mio Restaurant owner? She must have influential connections we're unaware of."

Derek let out a sigh and said, "She's chosen her path. It's none of my business."

He tenderly dried the tears on Madeline's cheeks, comforting her, “Madeline, please stop crying. It pains me to see you this way."

With a tear-stained smile, Madeline responded, “Alright, I understand. Go and settle the bill."

She nudged Derek gently, urging him toward the cashier.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Rhoda moved closer to Madeline, asking, "Madeline, I've never heard of this Norah having any significant standing in Glophia. How did she come to know the owner of Solo Mio Restaurant?"

“I've explained this already. She's the type to lure in men. Maybe she's got some shady link with the owner of Solo Mio Restaurant and is after Derek. She met Derek alone this morning. Luckily, I got wind of it and timely intervened," Madeline said with bitterness.

Making Derek meet Norah was Madeline's idea. If not, Derek would have kept Norah waiting for the finalization of the divorce, and her schemes couldn't proceed.

Whenever Madeline spotted Norah, jealousy inevitably bubbled up inside her. Despite Norah's allegedly uncertain parentage, her beauty and poise overshadowed Madeline, the Powell family heiress. Norah's presence around Derek fueled Madeline's insecurity.

Rhoda leaned in and whispered to Madeline, "You must employ whatever strategies necessary to secure Derek's affection. Remember, wealth is paramount. Men can't be trusted."

Rhoda's gaze briefly lay on Coen, aware of his indiscretions yet choosing a veneer of tranquility for the sake of their children.

Madeline's eyes hardened with determination, saying, "I'm aware."

Meanwhile, Norah savored her meal in the chamber, appreciating the culinary excellence. She acknowledged that Sean's generosity was indeed remarkable.

Back when she was about to exit the restaurant and unexpectedly bumped into Derek, she suddenly recalled the card Sean had given her.

Sean had assured her, “Utilize this card at any Scott Group establishment for utmost service."