Love on the Fast Track

Chapter 1404:

Meanwhile, like the Carters, Mindy and her family were not faring much better. The responsibility for their upkeep fell entirely on Larry, while the women of the Wilson family, despite their difficulties, had strong self-esteem and chose to sit around rather than seek employment.

Norah returned to reality, realizing she’d let her thoughts drift too far.

“Miss Wilson, should I go up with you? If they gang up on you, I can back you up,” Gilda offered, handing her the gift. She muttered under her breath, “Visiting your ex-husband’s family? What am I supposed to say if Mr. Scott asks about this later?”

Norah chuckled softly and tapped her on the head. “Just wait for me downstairs. Say what you need to, and don’t overthink it.”

As Norah approached the Carter family home, her mind raced with questions about who might be inside.

She knocked politely, and the door creaked open to reveal Marlene, who beamed at the sight of her.

“Miss Wilson, you’re here! Come in!” Marlene called out enthusiastically.

Her excitement filled the small entryway as she turned to shout, “Sharon, Miss Wilson is here!”

Sharon appeared from the back room, her expression strained but welcoming. “Norah, you really came! Derek mentioned it a few days ago, but I didn’t believe him. And look at you, bringing so many things. Oh, you shouldn’t have.”

“These are for Juliana,” Norah replied coolly, raising her hands to avoid Sharon’s attempt at physical affection. Her tone conveyed disdain as her eyes lingered on the cramped surroundings. “It seems things have taken a turn for the worse since I left. Where’s Juliana? I’m here to see her.”

Discover new books gαℓησν𝒆ℓs․com

Sharon’s smile faltered for a fraction of a second before she recovered. Her voice remained pleasant, though her teeth were clenched behind her lips. “It’s been a while. Come, sit down. Let’s catch up. You remember Marlene, don’t you? She’s part of the family now—Derek’s wife and two months pregnant. Such a blessing!”

Marlene lowered her head modestly, her voice soft. “I’m not as successful as you, Miss Wilson. It’s my good fortune to be welcomed into the Carter family.”

Norah crossed her arms, watching their display with a detached air. “Good fortune? If being part of a bankrupt family counts as good fortune, I’ll gladly pass. Seems the Carters are still collecting strays.”

Sharon’s hand trembled slightly as she fought to maintain her composure. Her forced smile widened. “Norah, there must be some misunderstanding. The Carter family isn’t as miserable as you say. Please, have a seat. Marlene, why are you just standing there? Go get Miss Wilson some tea.”noveldrama

Norah’s eyes narrowed. She knew Sharon’s temper well—fiery and quick to ignite at the slightest insult. The fact that Sharon was holding back so much indicated that she had ulterior motives.

Marlene returned moments later with a steaming cup of tea, setting it carefully before Norah. “Miss Wilson, please have some tea.”

Despite their evident displeasure, Sharon and Marlene kept smiling and speaking kindly to Norah.

Norah gave the cup a brief glance but didn’t reach for it. Her voice was sharp as she cut through their attempts at civility. “Let’s not waste time. I didn’t come here to chat. Whatever you have to say doesn’t concern me. I’m here for Juliana.”

Sharon’s smile stiffened, but she quickly nodded. “Of course. Marlene, show her to Juliana’s room.”

.

.

.