Chapter: 844
Near the entrance, a large photo of Madeline and Derek hung prominently. In the photo, Madeline's smile was sweet and joyous, while Derek looked at her indulgently, radiating happiness.
Next to their joyful picture, the words “happy wedding" stood out vibrantly.
Susanna scoffed, "They sure look nice in the photo. Too bad their personalities don't match."
Reflecting on what she knew of them, Susanna frowned in disgust. How had Norah ever tolerated Derek? Did she not think he was a douche?
Walking past the photo, Norah's steps halted briefly before she carried on into the hall.
She recalled how at her wedding with Derek, only her photo was displayed. Now, the situation seemed nothing short of ironic.
They headed to the reception to drop off the cash gift.
When the person receiving the gift requested her name, he carefully wrote it down in the book.
"Norah Wilson: 1313 dollars."
This name struck a chord of familiarity.
The person handling the gifts gazed at Norah, puzzled. The odd total of 1313 dollars led some to wonder if she bore any grudge toward the newlyweds.
Inside the hall, the ambiance was luxurious and enchanting, lit by the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. Guests mingled, recognizing friendly faces, whether seated or standing.
When Norah entered, a brief hush fell over the hall before it buzzed back to life.
Members of the Carter family quickly gathered around Norah.
Adrian was forthright. “Norah, what are you doing here? You and Derek are divorced. This is no place for you."
Norah offered a distant smile, one that didn't quite reach her eyes.
“The bride and groom personally invited me. How could I ignore their kindness? I've come to this event with the ‘best' of intentions."
Kathy was aware of Madeline's intentions with the invitation and was complicit in the scheme.
Their goal was to unsettle Norah. Kathy found pleasure in such mischief; Norah's distressed expression would bring them joy.
Susanna advanced two steps, clad in a white haute couture dress and a pearl hairpin, radiating elegance and nobility.
“Are we not welcome? Norah, I warned you against coming. Now, we're being asked to leave."
Kathy noticed the girl's luxurious dress and the costly hairpin, possibly pricier than Madeline's necklace.
“Of course not," Kathy responded swiftly, recognizing Susanna.
Observing her kindness towards Norah, Kathy doubted the rumors. They couldn't risk offending the Scott family.