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1,582,759	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1582839}'	No	2024-04-28 18:56	active	634	1392769094937532	Enjoy Romance🥰Read More 👉	The husband's mistress returned, and he handed her a divorce agreement. Disheartened, she realized she was just a substitute, turned around, left, and returned with a dominating presence as the heiress of a business empire.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-E	105235075579900	Funread	https://facebook.com/100083845110483	11,063	1	1,560,185,547,884,019	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Funread	120208090431970660	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1910509592737470	2024-04-23 03:08	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440091148_383125354696356_6542116271959493194_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EPArkZ-IGZoQ7kNvgEXJRsG&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBu2_DtUeUN8CGuHZrBkcXJp2WoCn6evHEW3KomkDMtKg&oe=6634CA43	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437547327_25595816200032453_5762428118103445834_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=hue9aUJzM0IQ7kNvgHowTew&_nc_oc=Adio7-T0-gpPAISW667Mu1lLD0WJVtMOAjWtGn-PqIXpLJrLTUXylfozlN496sKQmykbYSwmW6SXQAy5JKYhkNF9&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDSlLH92aE_701Tez4OT8qrtW4xHLllDLDix367Clz5wg&oe=6634AA91	3	Funread	2024-04-26 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,582,639	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1582603}'	No	2024-04-28 18:56	active	634	949667966634381	Read next chapter	After the divorce, she made a spectacular comeback as a top designer, elite race car driver, renowned healer, and genius hacker, stunning everyone and leaving her scoundrel ex-husband full of regret!<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &4&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-E	111340554958658	Romantic Novel Town	https://facebook.com/100083419995460	11,697	1	438,343,548,905,791	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Romantic Novel Town	120210527317130596	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=295122&accid=414788011273594	2024-04-26 05:16	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438230854_3649831515304708_5623222746690224383_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=pcy9ZWD3c_gQ7kNvgHv86j6&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfB6BjqlFWE7OKq-fkxQxwv488oPcIjwHLzfNXdE93wYcQ&oe=6634C879	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438229724_1503402110607934_8880773701073814817_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Mi8RGH8qcygQ7kNvgHUXsEK&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfAZXeqL3O7EhC19WdL3idgr-OpilrnHkE-4nupopvg1HA&oe=6634ABC2	3	Romantic Novel Town	2024-04-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,582,538	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1582839}'	No	2024-04-28 18:56	active	634	733095549034573	Enjoy Romance🥰Read More 👉	The husband's mistress returned, and he handed her a divorce agreement. Disheartened, she realized she was just a substitute, turned around, left, and returned with a dominating presence as the heiress of a business empire.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-E	105235075579900	Funread	https://facebook.com/100083845110483	11,063	1	968,400,078,264,836	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Funread	120208160076010660	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	image		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1910509592737470	2024-04-25 03:24	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439640366_458101873328802_2665805738721173490_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Es3pW6-hIW0Ab5gHCLH&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfD5yXkHXpE3SCD4CurQ1OKPsmg8gJ-qgVboIpYNgj7cNA&oe=6634B186	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439914874_1147622306379723_1788649638358406562_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ufoWHsJLqx8Ab4AwihL&_nc_oc=AdjtWUQBQDQFtTNgtvutSLg8wd-6-tB_GH8dHTxnjoQRzuosAR6U-FDNmEbxSHaJdyE&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDfASji6W_LbFJIUBEMJ2Tnt87dSTDqXqkdFKAEDy3JZg&oe=6634B05E	3	Funread	2024-04-26 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,582,744	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1581805}'	No	2024-04-28 18:56	active	634	1184441899384688	Seguir leyendo👉👉	Después del divorcio, regresó como una diseñadora superior, piloto de carreras de élite, curandera famosa y hacker genial, impresionando a todos y haciendo que su exmarido se arrepintiera amargamente.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Capítulo1 Divorcio<br /> "Imagínate si Norah nos sorprendiera aquí, en su cama. ¿Crees que se enojaría tanto que lloraría?", preguntó la mujer con un tono coqueto.<br /> <br /> "Esta no es su cama. Después de todos estos años, ni siquiera la he tocado. Siempre duerme en la habitación de invitados de al lado", resopló el hombre.<br /> <br /> "Derek, eres tan bueno conmigo...".<br /> <br /> Sus suaves murmullos se mezclaron con sus respiraciones agitadas.<br /> <br /> En la habitación tenuemente iluminada, un hombre y una mujer compartían momentos afectuosos en una espaciosa cama.<br /> <br /> Encima de ellos, adornando la prístina pared, había una foto de una novia con una expresión alegre.<br /> <br /> En la puerta, una joven se tapó la boca con las manos mientras las lágrimas corrían por su rostro.<br /> <br /> Después de un rato, su momento íntimo terminó.<br /> <br /> Derek Carter se puso sus pantalones cortos para ir a servirse un vaso de agua. Un destello de sorpresa se apoderó de su rostro cuando encontró a Norah Wilson sentada en la sala de estar.<br /> <br /> Se preguntaba cuándo había regresado y qué habría escuchado.<br /> <br /> "¿Lo oíste todo?", preguntó casualmente después de recostarse en el sofá con un vaso de agua.<br /> <br /> Había chupetones en su delgada figura, pero no le importaba si Norah los veía o cómo se sentiría. Simplemente bebió un sorbo de agua.<br /> <br /> "Firma esto". Derek sacó una carpeta de un cajón y la arrojó sobre la mesa. "Como es posible que lo hayas oído todo, no tiene sentido que prolonguemos este asunto".<br /> <br /> Norah agarró tímidamente el documento y leyó las palabras "Acuerdo de divorcio" en la página inicial. Cuando fue hasta el final, vio la firma con estilo de Derek Carter.<br /> <br /> "Puedes revisarlo. Si quieres agregar un término, avísame. De lo contrario, fírmalo", ordenó Derek.<br /> <br /> Luego, se reclinó y encendió un cigarrillo. El humo nubló su indiferente expresión.<br /> <br /> "¿No puedes darnos otra oportunidad?". Norah tenía la cabeza gacha y la voz áspera por las lágrimas. Su elegante flequillo caía sobre los bordes oscuros de sus gafas, resaltando su triste mirada.<br /> <br /> Desde que formó parte de la familia Carter, se había dedicado a Derek para tener un futuro lleno de felicidad.<br /> <br /> Sus manos se apretaron cuando recordó al chico que la había protegido de una tormenta de nieve, deseando tener incluso la más mínima esperanza de permanecer a su lado.<br /> <br /> "No seas tan patética, Norah. Tú sabes lo que pasa entre Madeline y yo. ¿Por qué te aferras a seguir siendo mi esposa? Ten un poco de dignidad". Derek dejó caer la ceniza en la bandeja impacientemente. "Nuestro matrimonio nunca fue más que un acuerdo por conveniencia".<br /> <br /> Norah sintió que su corazón daba un vuelco. Era Madeline Powell a quien Derek realmente amaba. Finalmente lo entendía.<br /> <br /> Norah se encorvó y jugueteó con el dobladillo de su ropa. Ahora se dio cuenta de que, cuando Madeline aparecía, la atención de Derek cambiaba por completo hacia ella.<br /> <br /> Hacía años, Madeline se fue al extranjero y Derek la persiguió, pero terminó en un trágico accidente automovilístico que lo dejó inconsciente.<br /> <br /> Se suponía que se casaría con Luna Wilson. Pero ella se involucró con otro hombre y tuvo un hijo, así que los Wilson ofrecieron a Norah como novia sustituta. Norah ocupó el lugar de Luna y se convirtió en la esposa de Derek.<br /> <br /> Durante su matrimonio, se dedicó a cuidarlo y cortó casi todos los lazos con su vida anterior por él. Incluso abandonó sus pasiones, como el diseño, las carreras de autos, la cirugía médica y la codificación, para concentrarse únicamente en su esposo.<br /> <br /> Cuando Derek despertó de su coma un año atrás, Norah siguió cuidándolo incansablemente y permaneció a su lado sin falta. Pero él pareció cegado por su ternura cuando Madeline regresó del extranjero.<br /> <br /> A pesar de dos años de matrimonio y cuidados, Norah tenía que admitir que no había logrado conquistar el corazón de Derek.<br /> <br /> Al no recibir respuesta, Derek no pudo evitar fruncir el ceño y estudiar a la mujer sentada frente a él.<br /> <br /> Norah era innegablemente atractiva, incluso con su espeso flequillo y sus grandes gafas, pero a menudo descuidaba su apariencia y se veía desaliñada. Además, tenía una personalidad demasiado reservada.<br /> <br /> Cuando Derek despertó del coma, Norah estuvo a su lado las veinticuatro horas del día, pero aun así él no sentía ninguna conexión emocional con ella, solo la encontraba increíblemente aburrida.<br /> <br /> Sus constantes cuidados y atenciones, así como su aspecto mundano y su rutina, eran tan monótonos como el agua. A Derek todo le parecía bastante aburrido.<br /> <br /> Reconocía el papel de Norah como cuidadora experimentada de la familia Carter durante esos dos años, pero nunca sintió que fuera adecuada para ser su compañera.<br /> <br /> Mientras apagaba otro cigarrillo, agregó casualmente:<br /> <br /> "Esta es la residencia de los Carter...".<br /> <br /> Al interrumpirse, notó que Norah seguía con la cabeza gacha. La tristeza en su postura lo irritó.<br /> <br /> "Soy consciente de tu miseria con los Wilson, así que te daré tres villas y treinta millones después del divorcio. Puedes elegir cualquier auto del garaje. Eso debería garantizarte una vida cómoda", ofreció Derek.<br /> <br /> No olvidaba el diligente cuidado de Norah mientras estaba postrado en cama y su compañía durante sus posteriores ejercicios de recuperación.<br /> <br /> Aunque no sentía ningún afecto por ella, estaba dispuesto a ofrecerle un acuerdo generoso por sus años de dedicación. Le había dedicado los dos mejores años de su vida.<br /> <br /> Derek se cruzó de brazos, y entonces Norah vio un pequeño tatuaje en su clavícula, empeorando su angustia. Era las iniciales MP. Madeline Powell.<br /> <br /> Derek ya no tenía paciencia.<br /> <br /> "Dadas las circunstancias, te daré un día para que lo pienses. Si no estás de acuerdo con los términos, puedes sugerir ajustes, pero no vayas demasiado lejos. No soy conocido por ser paciente...".<br /> <br /> "No es necesario que lo piense". Norah agarró el bolígrafo de la mesa y escribió su nombre en los papeles de divorcio. "Empacaré mis cosas y me iré. Ya no me interpondré en tu camino".<br /> <br /> Derek le dio un asentimiento.<br /> <br /> "Me alegra escuchar eso".<br /> <br /> Derek apreciaba que Norah siempre cediera, como una sirviente que nunca cuestionaba sus decisiones. Un ejemplo era ese mismo día, pues podría haber causado un escándalo, pero mantuvo la paz.<br /> <br /> En su opinión, su comportamiento era demasiado aburrido. Tenía miedo de que estar cerca de alguien tan corriente pudiera contagiarlo eventualmente. El amor, después de todo, no era algo que pudiera forzarse.<br /> <br /> Justo cuando estaba a punto de decir algo sobre el contrato, Madeline salió elegantemente, vestida con una camisa blanca.<br /> <br /> Apenas le cubría sus muslos y solo había un par de botones abrochados, exponiendo mucha piel.<br /> <br /> Su cabello estaba húmedo, por lo que la camisa se pegaba ligeramente a su piel, haciendo de su apariencia mucho más atractiva.<br /> <br /> Al escuchar unos pasos, Norah se dio la vuelta y vio a Madeline usando lo que inmediatamente reconoció como la camisa de Derek, una que ella había elegido para él.<br /> <br /> Sus miradas se encontraron. Madeline le dedicó una sonrisa engreída y burlona.<br /> <br /> Pero cuando Derek siguió su mirada, ella se apresuró a ocultar su sonrisa.<br /> <br /> "Norah, por fin nos conocemos. Soy Madeline Powell". Madeline se acercó a Derek y se sentó a su lado. "Derek te menciona a menudo", dijo apoyándose sobre su hombro. "Es un placer conocerte".<br /> <br /> Norah bajó la mirada y no respondió.<br /> <br /> Madeline le dio un codazo a Derek en broma.<br /> <br /> "Escuché que le darás tres villas a Norah. ¿No sabías que yo quería la villa cerca del lago? ¿Por qué se la prometiste? ¿Ya no me amas?".<br /> <br /> Siendo indulgente con los deseos de Madeline, Derek se volvió hacia Norah.<br /> <br /> "Te daré otra villa".<br /> <br /> Norah lo miró a través de sus gafas.<br /> <br /> "¿Pero no dijiste que esa era para mí?".<br /> <br /> Madeline hizo un puchero.<br /> <br /> "Derek...".<br /> <br /> El rostro del hombre mostró un destello de molestia.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ¿no entiendes lo que acabo de decir? Tómalo como un favor. Si no quieres realizar cambios, por favor, abstente de hacer solicitudes".<br /> <br /> Capítulo2 Dale una lección<br /> "Norah, deseo con todo mi corazón esa villa junto al lago. Elige otra para ti. Siempre he soñado que ese sería mi nuevo hogar con Derek", confesó Madeline mientras se acurrucaba más en sus brazos. "Ha sido mi deseo desde hace mucho".<br /> <br /> Derek sintió nostalgia ante sus palabras.<br /> <br /> Norah lanzó una suave risa.<br /> <br /> "¿Qué te ríes?", preguntó él.<br /> <br /> Madeline se acurrucó junto a Derek. El escote abierto de su camisa revelaba mucho de su suave piel. Mientras giraba distraídamente un mechón de su cabello, quiso llamar la atención del hombre, quien apoyó una mano sobre su hombro.<br /> <br /> "Me estoy riendo de lo tonta que fui", contestó Norah gélidamente.<br /> <br /> Sin dudarlo, agarró el vaso de agua de Derek de la mesa y los empapó a los dos. La repentina cascada los dejó perplejos.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ¿has perdido la cabeza?", espetó Derek.<br /> <br /> Norah se puso de pie.<br /> <br /> "Señor Carter, pensé que eras un hombre de palabra. Ya que me hiciste una promesa, cúmplela. De lo contrario, admite que eres un pésimo hombre que rompe su palabra".<br /> <br /> Madeline estaba acostumbrada a la indulgencia de Derek, por lo que tenía un temperamento feroz. Simplemente fingía vulnerabilidad y sumisión para ganarse el afecto de los hombres.<br /> <br /> Pero ahora estaba tan molesta que se levantó y empujó fuertemente a Norah.<br /> <br /> "Ya se te ha mostrado suficiente indulgencia. ¿Crees que puedes hablarnos así? ¿Quién te crees que eres? ¿Cómo te atreves a tratarnos a Derek y a mí con tan poco respeto?".<br /> <br /> Luego, volvió a buscar refugio en los brazos del hombre.<br /> <br /> "Derek, Norah ha cruzado el límite. ¡Dale una lección!". Mirándolo lastimosamente, imploró: "Mira, mi cabello y mi ropa están empapados".<br /> <br /> Su camisa blanca se pegaba a ella, resaltando su elegante figura.<br /> <br /> Norah los observó con calma, como si presenciara un espectáculo circense.<br /> <br /> "Yo no pedí esas villas y propiedades. La familia Carter es bastante adinerada, pero todavía duda ante asuntos tan pequeños. Lo entiendo, piensas que no lo merezco", declaró con un tono burlón pero carente de amargura.<br /> <br /> No obstante, Derek sintió un cambio profundo en la actitud de Norah.<br /> <br /> Con la mandíbula apretada, se secó el agua del rostro antes de volverse hacia Madeline.<br /> <br /> "Tengo muchas villas a mi nombre. Elige otra que te guste y será tuya".<br /> <br /> Pero la furia de Madeline hacia Norah latía a fuego lento. Además de Derek, nadie se había atrevido a faltarle el respeto de esa manera. La idea de que la exesposa no deseada de Derek actuara de esa manera era insoportable.<br /> <br /> Así que la fulminó con la mirada.<br /> <br /> "Entonces, ¿entregarás esa villa o no?".<br /> <br /> "No", respondió Norah firmemente.<br /> <br /> Un estruendo resonó cuando Madeline le dio una fuerte bofetada.<br /> <br /> "¿Cómo te atreves? Sin Derek, no eres nadie en la familia Wilson. ¡Solo eres una bastarda!", bramó Madeline.<br /> <br /> El rostro de Derek se ensombreció, pero no tardó en recuperar la calma.<br /> <br /> "Madeline, no te enfades por ella".<br /> <br /> Norah se tocó la mejilla e hizo una mueca por el ardor de la bofetada. Probando la sangre, le dio una mirada fulminante a la otra mujer y susurró:<br /> <br /> "Te faltan modales...".<br /> <br /> Madeline buscó refugio en los brazos de Derek.<br /> <br /> "Tengo a Derek a mi lado", se jactó. "¿Qué tienes tú? No eres más que un perro callejero que ya no quisieron más. ¡Ah! ¡Norah!".<br /> <br /> Norah le arrojó un jarrón. Este se estrelló contra el suelo cerca del sofá, rompiéndose en pedazos.<br /> <br /> "Si tienes ganas de ladrar, puedes hacerlo", agregó mientras se acercaba. Luego, agarró a Madeline por el cabello para obligarla a mirarla y la abofeteó ferozmente.<br /> <br /> Madeline se puso a gritar.<br /> <br /> "¡Derek!".<br /> <br /> Derek, sintiendo que Norah se había excedido, se enojó pero se contuvo.<br /> <br /> Después de liberar a Madeline, Norah retrocedió un paso.<br /> <br /> "Los dejaré en paz. Espero que encuentren alegría, tengan muchos hijos y estén juntos para toda la vida".<br /> <br /> Norah salió de la residencia de Derek mientras escuchaba a lo lejos los sollozos de Madeline.<br /> <br /> Cuando la puerta se cerró de golpe, esta empezó a gritar indignada.<br /> <br /> "Derek, ¿puedes creer lo que Norah acaba de hacer?", se quejó. "Nos mojó y me abofeteó. Tienes que darle una lección...".<br /> <br /> "¡Suficiente!", la interrumpió él. Masajeándose las sienes, suavizó su voz. "Norah y yo estamos divorciados. No quiero seguir enredándome con ella. Cumpliré tus deseos, Madeline. Pero cálmate, por favor".<br /> <br /> Con un puchero, ella se acurrucó en el abrazo de Derek.<br /> <br /> "El comportamiento de Norah hacia ti me irrita", murmuró con frustración. "Siempre has mencionado lo dócil que es, pero hoy fue todo lo contrario. Estaba muy agresiva".<br /> <br /> Derek recordó a Norah agarrando la taza para echarle agua, así como la mirada fría que le dirigió a Madeline cuando la abofeteó. Era un lado suyo que nunca había presenciado antes. Fue entonces cuando se dio cuenta de que no la conocía bien. Su impresión de ella solo se basaba en su obediencia.<br /> <br /> Al salir, Norah vio un sedán negro esperándola en la puerta. El conductor la saludó con respeto.<br /> <br /> "Señora Norah Carter, la señora Juliana Carter solicita su presencia".<br /> <br /> Ella estaba sorprendida y no sabía qué hacer, pero aun así entró al vehículo sin pensarlo dos veces.<br /> <br /> Pronto el auto se detuvo frente a una enorme villa. Era la mansión de los Carter, la residencia de los abuelos de Derek.<br /> <br /> "Señora Norah Carter...", saludó el mayordomo y llevó a la aparentemente preocupada Norah al interior.<br /> <br /> Parecía querer seguir conversando, pero finalmente decidió permanecer callado.<br /> <br /> "La señora Juliana dice que no la ve desde hace mucho. La cena aún no está servida, así que podría pasar tiempo con ella antes de cenar".<br /> <br /> Norah bajó los ojos y no dijo nada. Tenía la sensación de que Juliana quería convencerla de que reconsiderara el divorcio.<br /> <br /> La mansión solía ser muy tranquila, ya que solo era habitada por los abuelos de Derek. Pero esta cobró vida cuando Juliana, la abuela de Derek, notó la llegada de Norah y la invitó calurosamente a acercarse.<br /> <br /> "Norah, siéntate aquí".<br /> <br /> Norah se instaló y la saludó con una sonrisa a pesar de su confusión.<br /> <br /> Juliana agarró su mano.<br /> <br /> "No me has visitado en mucho tiempo", dijo ansiosamente.<br /> <br /> "¿Cómo va todo con Derek?".<br /> <br /> Norah supuso que la anciana la estaba poniendo a prueba. Dudaba que no supiera sobre el regreso de Madeline.<br /> <br /> Con aplomo, declaró:<br /> <br /> "Derek piensa que deberíamos divorciarnos. Acabo de firmar el acuerdo de divorcio para dejarle el paso libre a Madeline".<br /> <br /> "¿Madeline?", repitió Juliana tajantemente. "Sus acciones hicieron que Derek sufriera ese accidente. ¿Cómo se atreve a regresar a su vida? No te preocupes, yo te prefiero a ti sobre esa mujer. ¿Existe alguna posibilidad de que reconsideres el divorcio?".<br /> <br /> "¿Divorcio? ¡Quizás sea lo mejor!". Sharon Carter, la madre de Derek, se acercó con una sonrisa. Su presencia irradiaba sofisticación y encanto mientras se movía con seducción.<br /> <br /> Juliana se puso furiosa.<br /> <br /> "¡Camina bien! ¿Por qué te comportas así? No tienes modales".<br /> <br /> Sharon se sorprendió ante su reprimenda y su expresión se volvió incómoda. Mirando a Norah, agregó con tono gélido:<br /> <br /> "Menos mal están divorciados. Derek se iba a casar con Luna Wilson, la hija mayor de los Wilson. ¿Pero qué pasó? Luna fue tan desvergonzada como para involucrarse con otro hombre y terminó embarazada.<br /> <br /> En todos estos años viviendo en Glophia, nunca escuché que la familia Wilson tuviera otra hija. Me pregunto de dónde salió esta mujer. ¿No ha disfrutado de suficiente riqueza y prosperidad siendo la esposa de Derek durante dos años?".<br /> <br /> Capítulo3 Cambio de imagen<br /> Norah agarró la mano de Juliana. Su expresión se iluminó con una sonrisa, como si ignorara los duros comentarios de Sharon.<br /> <br /> "Parece que tienes un poco de tos. Estoy segura de que una sopa te ayudará a recuperarte. Le daré la receta al mayordomo más tarde".<br /> <br /> Juliana siempre había apreciado su docilidad y sensatez, así que respondió calurosamente:<br /> <br /> "Eres un ángel, Norah. No me estoy haciendo más joven y mi salud ha ido empeorando con la edad. Querida, tú eres la única que muestra tanta preocupación por mi bienestar".<br /> <br /> Al verse ignorada, Sharon palideció.<br /> <br /> "Oh, vamos", resopló. "¡Deja de fingir! Ahora que ya firmaste el acuerdo de divorcio, no es necesario que sigas actuando. ¿De verdad crees que permanecer cerca de Juliana te otorgará el derecho de seguir beneficiándote de nuestra familia?".<br /> <br /> Antes de que Norah pudiera responder, la anciana intervino:<br /> <br /> "Ella ha sido amable con todos nosotros desde que formó parte de esta familia. Estuvo al lado de Derek durante su coma y lo cuidó diligentemente. Sin mencionar que siempre nos ha tratado a ti y a mí con respeto. ¿Por qué ahora eres tan desagradecida, después de todo lo que ha hecho por nuestra familia en estos años?".<br /> <br /> "¡Juliana! Norah no es más que una bastarda de los Wilson. ¿Por qué la defiendes?". Sharon dio un pisotón.<br /> <br /> Luego, se volvió hacia Norah.<br /> <br /> "¿Dije algo malo? ¿Cómo merece esta bastarda ser la esposa de Derek? Si tú y tu esposo no hubieran insistido en que ella se casara con Derek, jamás la habría aprobado. Además, ha vivido de la fortuna de la familia Carter todo este tiempo. Es comprensible que nos trate con respeto. ¿Por qué haces que parezca como si hubiera hecho algo grandioso? Tampoco ha concebido en todos estos años. Quieres bisnietos, ¿no? Apuesto a que Derek se divorció de ella por ese motivo".<br /> <br /> El rostro de Juliana se volvió severo.<br /> <br /> "Sharon, cuida tus palabras. ¿Cómo puedes decir semejantes estupideces?".<br /> <br /> Aunque estaba sorprendida por su severidad, Sharon replicó:<br /> <br /> "Solo estoy exponiendo los hechos. Es una suerte que no haya concebido, ya que eso podría haber complicado el divorcio. Cualquier hijo suyo sería tan desagradable como ella".<br /> <br /> Juliana estaba perturbada por las palabras de su nuera, pero se limitó a agarrar la mano de Norah para tranquilizarla.<br /> <br /> "Ignórala, Norah. Es una mujer grosera y malhablada. Por favor, no te precipites con el asunto del divorcio. Mientras respire, solo te reconoceré a ti como la esposa de Derek. Mi esposo y yo te apreciamos muchísimo. No te preocupes por la reacción de mi nieto. Concéntrate en llevarte bien con él y sigan viviendo plenamente juntos".<br /> <br /> Sharon se veía bastante frustrada.<br /> <br /> "Juliana, ¿qué te pasa? ¿Por qué tú y tu esposo siempre defienden a Norah? ¡Maldita sea! Norah, lo mejor es que aceptes que tú y Derek terminaron".<br /> <br /> Norah alzó los ojos llorosos hacia Juliana.<br /> <br /> "Basta de tonterías, Sharon", espetó la anciana, manteniendo la compostura. "No tienes voz ni voto en el matrimonio de Derek. No opines sobre ese asunto, y déjame resaltar una vez más que prefiero a Norah. Si no puedes hablar debidamente, sal de mi vista. ¡Ahora!".<br /> <br /> El rostro de Sharon se enrojeció de furia y vergüenza. Tuvo que apretar los labios con fuerza para reprimir cualquier otra objeción.<br /> <br /> Juliana volvió a centrar su atención en Norah:<br /> <br /> "¿Qué piensas?".<br /> <br /> Norah se encontró con su mirada. Las lágrimas rodaban por sus mejillas mientras luchaba por hablar.<br /> <br /> "Yo... Te agradezco mucho, Juliana. Pero hoy encontré a Madeline y Derek teniendo sexo en lo que solía ser nuestra cama. Además, la indiferencia de Derek me ha dado a entender que no tiene sentido continuar con este matrimonio".<br /> <br /> El rostro de Juliana se volvió de un blanco fantasmal y sus rasgos se arrugaron por la preocupación.<br /> <br /> "La culpa es de Derek". Luego, agarró firmemente sus manos para consolarla. "Has soportado mucho durante todo este tiempo".<br /> <br /> Norah permaneció callada. Un breve silencio se apoderó de la sala de estar.<br /> <br /> De repente, se escuchó la fuerte voz de Sharon.<br /> <br /> "¿La puta de Madeline ha vuelto? ¡Maldición! Voy a salir, Juliana. ¡Tengo que hacer que esa puta pague!".<br /> <br /> Sharon agarró rápidamente su bolso y salió corriendo.<br /> <br /> Norah se secó las lágrimas y esbozó una sonrisa de alivio.<br /> <br /> "Estoy bien, en serio".<br /> <br /> Juliana tenía el corazón apesadumbrado.<br /> <br /> "Bueno, no te presionaré más. Pero visítame cuando tengas tiempo. Solo tu compañía me basta".<br /> <br /> Las lágrimas se acumularon en sus ojos. Realmente se había encariñado con Norah y reconocía su importancia en la recuperación de su nieto.<br /> <br /> Norah secó tiernamente las lágrimas de la anciana, apreciando la genuina bondad que le había mostrado.<br /> <br /> "Lo haré. Bueno, tengo que irme. Por favor, deberías pedir a la criada que le prepare la sopa".<br /> <br /> Norah se marchó sin mirar atrás, sin darse cuenta de la resolución en los ojos de Juliana.<br /> <br /> Esta se secó los ojos y le indicó al mayordomo:<br /> <br /> "Haz que Derek y los demás vengan aquí mañana al mediodía".<br /> <br /> "Entendido", contestó él.<br /> <br /> Cuando Norah salió de la mansión de los Carter, el chófer de la familia se acercó a ella.<br /> <br /> "Señora, ¿adónde le gustaría ir?".<br /> <br /> Sus modales seguían siendo educados, ya que todavía la consideraba la esposa de Derek.<br /> <br /> Pero una vez que firmó el documento de divorcio, Norah comprendió que había roto sus lazos con la familia Carter.<br /> <br /> Al mirar su teléfono, descubrió que había un mensaje nuevo.<br /> <br /> Era de Joanna Andrews, su amiga.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ¿estás disponible esta noche para acompañarme al club Glamour? Madeline ha regresado, así que Derek le organizará una fiesta de bienvenida. ¡Va a ser todo un espectáculo! Tenemos que hacer sentir nuestra presencia".<br /> <br /> Norah le dio una respuesta breve.<br /> <br /> "Cuenta conmigo".<br /> <br /> Joanna envió varios signos de interrogación. La rápida aceptación de su amiga la tomó con la guardia baja.<br /> <br /> "Estoy oficialmente divorciada", explicó Norah. "De ahora en adelante, estaré sola".<br /> <br /> Joanna no respondió nada por un momento, pero luego envió un mensaje emocionado con una ráfaga de signos de exclamación.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ¡¿dónde estás ahora?! ¡¡¡Iré por ti inmediatamente!!! ¡¡¡Solo dame diez segundos para llegar!!!".<br /> <br /> Divertida ante el entusiasmo de su amiga, Norah le envió una ubicación y le indicó al conductor:<br /> <br /> "Por favor, lléveme al Edificio Splendor".<br /> <br /> Era un lugar conocido en Glophia por ser un lujoso centro comercial, con marcas de primer nivel de todo el mundo.<br /> <br /> Al llegar, Norah fue recibida calurosamente.<br /> <br /> "Noelle, me alegro mucho de verte. ¿Viniste para entregar los bocetos de diseño?".<br /> <br /> El lujoso vestidor estaba repleto de impresionantes vestidos de alta costura, cada uno adornado con brillantes diamantes que reflejaban la luz.<br /> <br /> Aaron Harvey, el diseñador de alta costura de Asodence, se acercó teatralmente a ella y la tomó del brazo.<br /> <br /> "Me duele cada vez que te veo así. ¿Por qué escondes tu hermoso rostro? Eres la flor más exquisita, así que deberías florecer con valentía".<br /> <br /> Norah parpadeó.<br /> <br /> "Estoy de acuerdo, Aaron. ¿Puedes ayudarme con un cambio de imagen?".<br /> <br /> Aaron esperó que Norah le diera excusas, así que estaba a punto de continuar con la persuasión, pero entonces se quedó paralizado.<br /> <br /> "¡Espera! Tú... Noelle, ¿de verdad quieres tener una transformación? ¡Oh, por Dios! Acudir a mí fue la mejor decisión de tu vida".<br /> <br /> Dejando de lado el tema de los borradores de diseño, Aaron la llevó a la silla de maquillaje.<br /> <br /> "Quédate quieta. Te aseguro que serás una mujer deslumbrante cuando deje que tu belleza natural y tu irresistible encanto hagan su magia".<br /> <br /> Aaron observó el sencillo atuendo y el cabello despeinado de Norah. Luego, comenzó entusiasmadamente su transformación con una brocha de maquillaje en la mano.<br /> <br /> Cuando Joanna llegó al lugar, todavía seguían maquillando a Norah.<br /> <br /> Como conocía a Aaron, fue a saludarlo y se sentó en una cercana silla de maquillaje.<br /> <br /> "Norah, te felicito por tu regreso oficial a una vida despreocupada".<br /> <br /> Capítulo4 Club Glamour<br /> Norah le dio una sonrisa.<br /> <br /> "Eres muy hábil con las palabras, Joanna".<br /> <br /> "Oye, ¿no estabas enamorada de Derek?", preguntó ella con curiosidad. "¿Qué te hizo recuperarte y olvidar tu amor?".<br /> <br /> "Acabo de encontrarlo con Madeline en la cama", explicó Norah con voz gélida.<br /> <br /> Joanna se echó a reír.<br /> <br /> "¿Tan desesperada está Madeline por estar con un hombre? Apenas ha regresado y ya se metió con el esposo de otra persona. Me pregunto cómo era su vida en el extranjero. Bueno, debo reconocer que tú y Derek ambos son demasiado dedicados al amor. Él estaba obsesionado con su primer amor y tú le eras completamente devota, a pesar de que nunca te correspondió. ¿Acaso el amor ciega tanto a la gente?".<br /> <br /> La mente de Norah empezó a vagar. Hoy había sido la primera vez que vio a Madeline.<br /> <br /> Solo había escuchado hablar de ella a través de Derek y el personal de la casa. Todos la describían como amable, empática, educada y tranquila, alguien que podía atraerlo.<br /> <br /> Norah siempre había hecho de todo para cuidarlo, adoptando las supuestas características de Madeline, incluso tratando de parecerse a ella para llamar su atención.<br /> <br /> Pero ser un reemplazo nunca era suficiente. Además, Madeline no era en absoluto la persona que ella había imaginado.<br /> <br /> "Lo entenderías si alguna vez sintieras el amor", respondió sin mucho entusiasmo.<br /> <br /> Joanna frunció el ceño.<br /> <br /> "No quiero perderme en el amor, Norah. Prefiero estar alerta y a tu lado. Apenas nos vemos desde que te uniste a la familia Carter".<br /> <br /> Tras su matrimonio, Norah se dedicó a Derek y a la familia Carter, dejando atrás su vida pasada y sus amistades.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ahora que estás divorciada, ¿participarás en la carrera de la montaña Krusa en cinco días?".<br /> <br /> "No", contestó ella rotundamente. "Hace dos años que no participo en carreras, así que estoy fuera de práctica".<br /> <br /> Pero Joanna no parecía convencida.<br /> <br /> "¿Fuera de práctica? Dame una excusa mejor la próxima vez. Dime, Norah, ¿todavía tienes esperanzas de regresar con el bastardo de Derek?".<br /> <br /> Joanna quiso hablar mal de ese hombre, pero tuvo una idea.<br /> <br /> "¿Recuerdas la carrera de hace tres años? Nocturne fue el único que pudo alcanzarte. Desde que te retiraste, ha conseguido el primer puesto en la carrera de Krusa durante los últimos dos años. Todos esperan que vuelva a competir este año. ¿No quieres verlo?".<br /> <br /> La carrera de la montaña Krusa era un emocionante evento clandestino, una reunión de la élite joven y adinerada de Glophia que eran entusiastas de las carreras de autos. Ese evento era conocido por sus emocionantes carreras y atraía a una multitud fanática de los deportes extremos.<br /> <br /> Para proteger la privacidad de los concursantes, cada uno recibía una máscara de los organizadores y usaba apodos durante la carrera.<br /> <br /> Una peculiaridad era que el ganador podía pedirles a los perdedores que se quitaran la máscara.<br /> <br /> Norah recordó la emocionante carrera de hacía tres años, en la que Nocturne se quedó por poco con el primer puesto por unos escasos tres segundos.<br /> <br /> "Bueno, supongo que no hay nada de malo en echarle un vistazo", comentó con un brillo en los ojos.<br /> <br /> Aaron se mostró interesado cuando escuchó sobre el divorcio.<br /> <br /> "¿Estás divorciada, Noelle? Ese hombre no sabe lo que se perdió. Apuesto a que se arrepentirá de haber dejado a alguien tan valioso como tú. De todos modos, sobre esos borradores de diseño...".<br /> <br /> Joanna se volvió hacia Aaron.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ¿aún trabajas en diseños para BelleVogue? No me extraña que algunas de sus líneas de lujo se parezcan a tus creaciones".<br /> <br /> Aaron sonrió orgullosamente.<br /> <br /> "Noelle es una diseñadora de moda de primer nivel reconocida por la Asociación de Alta Costura. Es famosa en todo el mundo por sus diseños, los cuales están valorizados en precios altísimos. Afortunadamente, siendo cercano a Noelle, he sido el único que ha recibido sus creaciones en estos dos años".<br /> <br /> Joanna puso los ojos en blanco.<br /> <br /> "Todo esto es por el talento de Norah. ¿Qué tiene que ver contigo? Vamos, apúrate. Tengo que verme espectacular esta noche, al igual que Norah".<br /> <br /> "Bueno, bueno. Relájate y me aseguraré de que ambas se vean fabulosas".<br /> <br /> Una hora después, las dos amigas entraron al club Glamour.<br /> <br /> En la pista de baile, unas luces vibrantes giraban e iluminaban todo el lugar. La música sonaba con emoción mientras la gente bailaba. Sus rostros brillaban de alegría entre el olor a alcohol y el humo.<br /> <br /> El segundo piso ofrecía un ambiente más tranquilo. Ahí Norah se sentó en un sofá para beber su bebida, atrayendo miradas curiosas. Tenía puesto un pequeño vestido sin tirantes de color blanco plateado. Su cabello castaño estaba ligeramente rizado y caía sobre su espalda. La elegante curva de su cuello brillaba suavemente mientras inclinaba la cabeza para tomar un sorbo de su bebida.<br /> <br /> "¡Ahí está mi Norah!", exclamó Joanna y se sentó frente a ella. "No te has reunido conmigo en todo este tiempo. ¡Y siempre te ponías esos vestidos formales en la residencia de ese idiota! ¿No te sentías asfixiada? Es tan bueno verte una vez más en tu elemento. ¡Me hace tan feliz!".<br /> <br /> Norah siguió tomando su bebida en silencio.<br /> <br /> A medida que el ardiente líquido se deslizaba por su garganta hasta su vientre, su cuerpo empezó a entrar en calor.<br /> <br /> A pesar de que se había casado con un miembro de la familia Carter y lo atendía a diario, disfrutaba vestirse elegantemente y ponerse un maquillaje encantador. Pero Sharon y Kathy, la hermana de Derek, a menudo la criticaban por ser demasiado llamativa. Afirmaban que, como su esposo estaba postrado en cama, ella no tenía por qué vestirse tan extravagantemente.<br /> <br /> Por el bien de Derek, Norah se dedicó por completo a cuidarlo, convirtiéndose en su constante enfermera.<br /> <br /> Pero esos días habían quedado en el pasado. Ahora que se había liberado de la familia Carter, podía vestirse como quisiera, sin preocuparse por sus críticas.<br /> <br /> Joanna miró su teléfono y alzó la mirada.<br /> <br /> "Norah, ¿tienes algún plan para crear una escena en la estúpida fiesta de bienvenida de Derek para esa perra? ¿Te gustaría que traiga a algunas personas para hacer un escándalo?".<br /> <br /> Norah miró fijamente el líquido dorado que se arremolinaba en su vaso mientras lo movía de a pocos.<br /> <br /> "Vinimos aquí no solo por ellos, ¿verdad? Dime, ¿quién es la persona con la que me has citado?".<br /> <br /> Joanna pareció sorprenderse y esbozó una sonrisa astuta.<br /> <br /> "¿A qué te refieres, Norah? ¡Solo vinimos para agitar las cosas!".<br /> <br /> "Este club le pertenece a la familia Morris, así que preferiría no hacerlos enojar", explicó ella. "Soy consciente de que la estúpida fiesta de Derek solo es una excusa. Entonces, contéstame honestamente. ¿Quién te buscó para llegar a mí?".<br /> <br /> Su conversación fue interrumpida por el timbre de un teléfono. Joanna lo agarró a toda prisa y su rostro cambió.<br /> <br /> "Tengo que responder", murmuró alejándose. "Vuelvo enseguida".<br /> <br /> Norah notó la preocupación de su amiga y comprendió que tenía que atender algo urgente. Por lo tanto, asintió y dejó su bebida. El vaso tintineó ligeramente sobre la mesa.<br /> <br /> Independientemente de los planes que se estuvieran haciendo a través de Joanna, Norah confiaba en que su amiga no se volvería contra ella.<br /> <br /> "Hola, hermosa. ¿Estás sola? ¿Te importa si tomo una copa contigo?".<br /> <br /> ...<br /> &4&	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.	104384282357850	Romantic Novel City	https://facebook.com/100083790041265	3,553	1	811,318,874,247,323	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Install now	Romantic Novel City	120206457906930685	play.google.com	NONE	image	Read popular romance books and web novels on the fantastic ebook reader	https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.changdu.ereader	2024-04-24 22:38	https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438706151_956564979302132_4428809642085114892_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=xeSTrI-se-oQ7kNvgEu5eWe&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA1xYe0bLtwBKkcouyDUB-riK65B4UnGzN5FzNyP_NMLg&oe=6634A35C	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-mia3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438331084_951592906662898_2264417933885625498_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=EQ9jMpjEosEQ7kNvgF-lUHD&_nc_ht=scontent-mia3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAEECPjdBB9JBpKGTpZWXgbrTVOki19fNFielRtVdbjHQ&oe=66349942	3	Romantic Novel City	2024-04-26 02:00	View Edit Delete
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1,581,869	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1582839}'	No	2024-04-28 18:56	active	634	939148174656372	Enjoy Romance🥰Read More 👉	The husband's mistress returned, and he handed her a divorce agreement. Disheartened, she realized she was just a substitute, turned around, left, and returned with a dominating presence as the heiress of a business empire.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Chapter 1 Divorce<br /> <br /> In the softly lit room, a man and a woman were entwined in an affectionate embrace. <br /> <br /> A painting of a bride adorned the pristine wall, her expression one of gentle joy. <br /> <br /> "Imagine if Norah knew this. Do you think she'd be furious enough to cry?" the woman said in a flirtatious tone. <br /> <br /> "Who cares what she thinks?" the man snorted before replying. <br /> <br /> "Derek, you're so good to me..."<br /> <br /> Right then, a young woman at the door clasped her hands over her mouth, tears streaming down her face upon overhearing them. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter exited the room to fetch a glass of water. Finding Norah Wilson sitting silently in the living area brought a flicker of surprise to his face. He pondered when Norah had come back and what she might have heard. <br /> <br /> "Did you hear everything?" Derek casually asked after he lounged on the couch in the living area with a glass of water. <br /> <br /> "It's time you sign this." Derek pulled a folder from a drawer and tossed it onto the table. "Given you might have heard it all, there's no sense in prolonging matters."<br /> <br /> Norah timidly reached for the document, her eyes quickly finding the words "Divorce Agreement" on the opening page. She flipped to the end, noting Derek Carter's flamboyant signature. <br /> <br /> "Review it. Should you wish to add any terms, let me know. Otherwise, just sign it," Derek ordered. <br /> <br /> "Can't you give another shot for us?" With her head bowed and her voice rough from tears, Norah's sleek bangs fell over the dark rims of her glasses, highlighting her sorrowful look. <br /> <br /> Ever since marrying into the Carter family, Norah had devoted herself to Derek, hoping for a future filled with happiness. <br /> <br /> Memories of the boy who had protected her from a snowstorm tightened her grip, wishing for even the slightest hope of remaining by his side. <br /> <br /> "Norah, don't be so pathetic. You knew what had transpired between me and Madeline. So why cling to being my wife? Don't be so cheap." Derek's impatience showed as he added, "Our marriage was never more than a convenient arrangement."<br /> <br /> Norah felt her heart drop. She realized that Madeline Powell was the one Derek truly loved. She finally understood this. <br /> <br /> She hunched over, fiddling with her clothes' hem. It struck her that when Madeline showed up, Derek's focus would shift entirely to Madeline. <br /> <br /> Years ago, when Madeline left for overseas, Derek chased after her but ended up in a tragic car crash that left him unresponsive. Derek was supposed to marry Luna Wilson from the Wilson family. However, Luna became involved with another man, prompting the Wilsons to offer Norah as a substitute bride. Norah stepped into Luna's shoes, becoming Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> Norah devoted herself to Derek's care, cutting off almost all ties to her previous life for him. She abandoned her passions, including design, car racing, medical surgery, and coding, just to focus solely on him. <br /> <br /> When Derek woke up from his coma a year ago, it was still Norah who tirelessly looked after him, staying by his side without fail. Yet, Derek seemed to be blinded by Madeline's tenderness when she returned from abroad. <br /> <br /> Despite two years of marriage and care, Norah had to admit she failed to win a place in Derek's heart. <br /> <br /> Receiving no response from Norah, Derek couldn't help but frown, studying Norah sitting across from him. <br /> <br /> Norah was undeniably attractive, even with her thick bangs and large glasses framing her face, yet she often neglected her appearance, looking disheveled. Her personality was overly reserved. <br /> <br /> After Derek woke up from his coma, Norah was by his side around the clock, yet he felt no emotional connection to her. He found her incredibly dull. <br /> <br /> The constant care and attention, the mundane look and routine of life, were as dull as plain water. Derek found it all incredibly boring. <br /> <br /> He acknowledged Norah's role as a capable caretaker for the Carter family over the past two years but never felt she was fit to be his partner. <br /> <br /> Derek said casually, "This is the Carter family residence..."<br /> <br /> He stopped and noticed Norah still bowing her head. The sadness evident in her posture irritated him. <br /> <br /> "I'm aware of your misery with the Wilson family. After the divorce, I'll grant you three villas and thirty million. You can pick up any car from the garage. This should ensure a comfortable life for you in the future," Derek offered. <br /> <br /> Derek wouldn't forget Norah's diligence in caring for him while bedridden and her companionship during his recovery exercises after he woke up from the coma. <br /> <br /> Though he harbored no affection for Norah, Derek was willing to offer a generous settlement for her years of dedication. She had indeed devoted the best two years of her life to him. <br /> <br /> Derek's patience wore thin. "Given the circumstances, I'll allow you a day to think it over. If the terms don't meet your approval, feel free to suggest adjustments, but don't go too far. I'm not known for my patience..."<br /> <br /> "There's no need for me to think it over." Norah took the pen from the table and smoothly wrote her name on the divorce papers. "I'll pack my things and leave soon. I won't get in your way anymore."<br /> <br /> Derek gave a nod of approval. "That's good to hear."<br /> <br /> Derek appreciated how Norah always complied. Take today, for instance. She could have caused a commotion but instead kept her peace. <br /> <br /> To Derek, Norah's demeanor was too dull. He worried that being around someone so unremarkable might rub off on him eventually. Love, after all, wasn't something one could force. <br /> <br /> Just as Derek was about to say something after going through the contract, Madeline, dressed in a white shirt, elegantly strolled out. <br /> <br /> Hearing the movement, Norah turned to see Madeline wearing what she immediately recognized as Derek's shirt, which she had picked out for him. <br /> <br /> Their eyes met, and Madeline gave Norah a smug, taunting smile. <br /> <br /> When Derek's gaze followed, Madeline quickly masked her grin. <br /> <br /> "Norah, we finally meet. I'm Madeline Powell." With grace, Madeline approached Derek and took a seat beside him. Leaning on his shoulder, she said, "I've heard Derek mention you often. It's a pleasure to meet you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked down, saying nothing in response. <br /> <br /> Madeline then nudged Derek playfully. "I heard you're offering Norah three villas. Didn't you know that I wanted that villa near the lake? Why would you promise it to her? Don't you love me anymore?"<br /> <br /> Derek, ever so indulgent of Madeline's requests, turned back to Norah. "I'll choose another villa for you."<br /> <br /> Norah looked up at Derek through her glasses. "But didn't you say that one was meant for me?"<br /> <br /> Madeline's pout intensified. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> Derek's face showed a flicker of annoyance. "Norah, didn't you understand what I just said? Take these as a favor. If you're not on board with making changes, kindly refrain from making requests."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 2 Teach Her A Lesson<br /> <br /> "Norah, I've set my heart on that villa by the lake. Pick something else for yourself. I've dreamed of it being my new home with Derek," Madeline confessed, nestling closer into Derek's embrace. "It's been my wish for a long time."<br /> <br /> Derek felt a wave of nostalgia at her words. <br /> <br /> Norah let out a soft chuckle upon hearing this. <br /> <br /> "What are you laughing at?" Derek asked in confusion. He found it odd for her to laugh, especially considering the awful thing he had just said. <br /> <br /> Madeline snuggled up to Derek. Absentmindedly twirling a strand of her hair, she caught Derek's attention. Derek rested his hand on Madeline's shoulder. <br /> <br /> Norah's response was icy. "I'm laughing at how foolish I've been."<br /> <br /> Without hesitation, Norah took Derek's glass of water from the table and drenched Derek and Madeline. The sudden cascade of water left them in shock. <br /> <br /> Derek, outraged, yelled, "Norah, have you lost your mind?"<br /> <br /> Standing tall, Norah retorted, "Mr. Carter, I had thought you're a man of your word. Since you've given your word, stick to it. Otherwise, just admit you're a lousy man who will break your word."<br /> <br /> Madeline, accustomed to Derek's indulgence, had a fierce temper. She merely feigned vulnerability and submission to win the affection of men. <br /> <br /> Enraged, Madeline got up and shoved Norah. "You've been shown enough leniency. Do you think you can speak to us that way? Who do you think you are? How dare you treat Derek and me with such disrespect?"<br /> <br /> She then sought refuge in Derek's arms again. "Derek, Norah is out of line. You need to teach her a lesson."<br /> <br /> Looking pitifully at Derek, she implored, "Look, my hair and clothes are soaking."<br /> <br /> Norah observed them calmly as if watching a circus act. <br /> <br /> "I didn't plead for those villas and properties. The Carter family is wealthy enough but still hesitates over such small matters. I get it. You deem me not deserving," Norah said, her tone self-mocking yet devoid of bitterness. Yet, Derek sensed a profound shift in Norah's attitude, realizing she had changed significantly. <br /> <br /> Derek clenched his jaw, wiping away the water from his face before turning to Madeline. "There are plenty of villas in my name. Pick any other ones you like, and it's yours."<br /> <br /> Yet, Madeline's anger toward Norah simmered. Aside from Derek, nobody had dared to disrespect her like this. The thought of Norah, Derek's unwanted former wife, acting this way was unbearable. <br /> <br /> Madeline glared at Norah, demanding, "So, will you hand that villa over or not?"<br /> <br /> Norah's response was firm. "No."<br /> <br /> "How dare you! Outside of Derek's grace, you're just a nobody in the Wilson family!" Madeline snapped. <br /> <br /> Derek's face clouded over briefly before he regained his calm, advising Madeline, "Don't get upset over her."<br /> <br /> Norah glared at Madeline, muttering, "Your manners are lacking..."<br /> <br /> Madeline sought refuge in Derek's embrace, boasting, "I have Derek by my side. You? You're nothing but a discarded... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah hurled a vase over. The vase smashed against the floor near the sofa, breaking into pieces with a sharp sound. <br /> <br /> "If you feel like barking like this, be my guest," Norah retorted, stepping closer. She grabbed Madeline by the hair, forcing Madeline to look up at her. <br /> <br /> Madeline's scream filled the room. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek fought back his rage, feeling Norah had overstepped today. <br /> <br /> After releasing Madeline, Norah stepped back, casually stating, "I'll leave you two to it. May you find joy, bear many children, and share a lifelong bond."<br /> <br /> Then, Norah exited Derek's residence, leaving behind the sound of Madeline's sobs. <br /> <br /> Even as the door slammed, Madeline remained incensed. She complained to Derek, "Can you believe Norah? She doused us with water and slapped me. You need to teach her a lesson..."<br /> <br /> "Enough!" Derek cut her off. Massaging his temples, Derek softened his voice. "She and I are divorced now. I don't want to get tangled with her anymore. Madeline, I'll fulfill your wishes. Just calm down, please."<br /> <br /> With a pout, Madeline snuggled into Derek's embrace, voicing her frustration, "Norah's behavior toward you irritates me. You've always mentioned how compliant she is, yet she was anything but. She seemed so aggressive."<br /> <br /> Derek recalled Norah's grabbing the cup and splashing water, the cold stare she directed at Madeline. It was a side of Norah he hadn't witnessed before. At that moment, he realized he didn't know Norah. His previous impression of Norah was solely based on her compliance. <br /> <br /> Upon leaving, Norah found a black sedan waiting for her at the gate. The driver, with respect, announced, "Mrs. Norah Carter, Mrs. Juliana Carter has requested your presence."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard and unsure of her next steps, Norah entered the vehicle without a second thought. <br /> <br /> The car gradually halted in front of a grand villa. It was Carter Manor, the residence of Derek's grandparents. <br /> <br /> "Mrs. Norah Carter..." greeted the butler, guiding the seemingly preoccupied Norah inside. <br /> <br /> The butler seemed to want to converse further but ultimately chose to remain silent. "Mrs. Juliana Carter mentioned she hasn't seen you in a while. Dinner is yet to be served. Perhaps you could spend time with her beforehand."<br /> <br /> Norah lowered her eyes and did not respond. She had a feeling Juliana was trying to convince her to reconsider the divorce. <br /> <br /> The manor, typically quiet and inhabited only by Derek's grandparents, came to life as Juliana Carter, Derek's grandmother, noticed Norah's arrival and warmly invited her, saying, "Norah, come over here and sit."<br /> <br /> Settling in, Norah greeted Juliana with a smile despite the inner turmoil. <br /> <br /> Juliana took Norah's hand, expressing concern, "You haven't visited in such a long time. How are things with Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah guessed Juliana was testing her. She doubted Juliana would be unaware of Madeline's return to the country. <br /> <br /> With poise, Norah shared, "Derek believes we should get a divorce. Well, I've just signed the divorce agreement, making way for Madeline."<br /> <br /> Juliana's response was sharp. "Madeline? Her actions led to Derek's car incident. How dare she come back into his life? Don't fret. I favor you over that woman. So, is there any chance you'd reconsider the divorce?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's concern left Norah feeling melancholy. For two years, she harbored love for Derek yet failed to ignite the same in him. <br /> <br /> "Divorced? That might just be for the best!" Derek's mother, Sharon Carter, approached with a smirk, her presence radiating sophistication and charm as she moved with a captivating grace. <br /> <br /> Juliana, witnessing her demeanor, became furious. "Walk properly! Why do you walk like that? Your manners are lacking."<br /> <br /> Caught off guard by the scolding, Sharon's expression shifted to one of discomfort. She glanced at Norah, seated next to Juliana, and said with a frosty tone, "Good thing they're divorced. Originally, Derek was to marry Luna Wilson, the Wilson family's eldest daughter. Guess what? Luna disgracefully became involved with someone else. Throughout my years in Glophia, I've never even heard of the Wilson family having another daughter. I wonder where this Norah came from... Taking the role of Derek's wife for two past years, hasn't this woman enjoyed wealth and prosperity enough?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 3 Norah's Change<br /> <br /> Norah clasped Juliana's hand, her expression lit up with a smile, seemingly oblivious to Sharon's harsh comments. "You seem to suffer from a bit of cough. I happen to know a soup will help soothe it. I'll give the recipe to the butler later."<br /> <br /> Juliana, who had always appreciated Norah's compliant and thoughtful nature, warmly responded, "You're such an angel, Norah. Well, I'm not getting any younger and my health has been declining with age. My darling, you're the only one who shows such concern for my well-being."<br /> <br /> Feeling ignored, Sharon's face turned pale as she mocked, "Oh, come on. Drop the act! Now that the divorce agreement is signed, you don't need to keep up the act. Do you honestly believe staying close to Juliana will grant you the right to continue to benefit from the Carter family?"<br /> <br /> Before Norah could respond, Juliana interjected, "Norah has always been nice to us all since joining our family. She was by Derek's side throughout his coma, caring for him diligently. Not to mention, she had always treated both you and me with respect. Why are you being so ungrateful now, after all she's done for our family these past two years?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Why do you continue to defend her?" Sharon stomped her feet. <br /> <br /> Sharon glared at Norah, pressing, "Did I say something wrong? How does this woman deserve to be Derek's wife? Had it not been for your and your husband's insistence on her marrying Derek, I would've never approved this woman. Plus, she's lived off the Carter family's fortune since the marriage. Naturally, she should treat Derek and us with respect. Why do you make it sound like she did something great?"<br /> <br /> Juliana's expression grew severe. "Sharon, watch your language. How can you speak such nonsense?"<br /> <br /> Though taken aback by Juliana's stern expression, Sharon retorted, "I'm merely stating facts."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visibly disturbed by Sharon's words yet gripping Norah's hand reassuringly, advised, "Ignore her, Norah. She's coarse. Please, I urge you not to be rash on the divorce thing. As long as I breathe, I only recognize you as Derek's wife. My husband and I really appreciate you. Don't fret over Derek's reaction. Focus on getting on well with Derek and leading a fulfilling life together."<br /> <br /> Sharon, her eyes brimming with frustration, asked, "Juliana, what's wrong with you? Why are you and your husband always defending Norah? Norah, just accepting that you and Derek are over will be best for everyone."<br /> <br /> Norah raised her eyes to Juliana, tears shimmering within them. <br /> <br /> Juliana, maintaining her composure, asserted, "Enough of your nonsense, Sharon. You don't get a say in Derek's marriage. Stay out of this business. And allow me to highlight my appreciation for Norah to you once again. If you can't speak properly, get out of my face. Now!"<br /> <br /> At this, Sharon's face reddened with anger and embarrassment, her lips tightly pressed, holding back any further objections. <br /> <br /> Juliana then turned her attention back to Norah, asking, "What are your thoughts, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah met Juliana's gaze, tears rolling down her cheeks as she struggled to speak. "I... I really appreciate it, Juliana. But, today I caught Madeline and Derek cheating on me... Plus, Derek's indifference to me has told me there's no point in continuing this marriage."<br /> <br /> Juliana's face creased with worry as she said, "The blame lies with Derek."<br /> <br /> She held Norah's hands firmly, offering solace, "You've endured a lot over these last two years."<br /> <br /> Norah remained silent, and a brief hush settled over the living room. <br /> <br /> The next second, Sharon's loud voice shattered the silence. "Madeline is back? Juliana, I'm heading out now. I've got to make that woman pay."<br /> <br /> Sharon quickly snatched her bag and darted out of the living room. <br /> <br /> Norah wiped her tears and smiled with relief, saying, "I'm fine. Really."<br /> <br /> With a heavy heart, Juliana responded, "Well, I won't press further. Norah, please visit me whenever you get the chance. Your company alone is enough for me."<br /> <br /> Tears gathered in her eyes as Juliana spoke. Juliana had grown genuinely fond of Norah, recognizing Norah's significance in Derek's recovery from his coma. <br /> <br /> Norah tenderly wiped away Juliana's tears, acknowledging the genuine kindness she had been shown. "Will do. Well, I'll take my leave now. Please ask the maid to prepare the soup for you."<br /> <br /> Norah left without looking back, unaware of the resolution in Juliana's eyes. <br /> <br /> Juliana, dabbing at her eyes, instructed the butler, "Arrange for Derek and the others to come back to the Carter Manor tomorrow at noon."<br /> <br /> The butler acknowledged, "Understood."<br /> <br /> As Norah exited the Carter Manor, the family's chauffeur approached her. "Madam, where would you like to go?"<br /> <br /> The chauffeur's manner remained polite, still regarding Norah as Derek's wife. <br /> <br /> But with the divorce paper signed, Norah understood she had severed ties with the Carter family. <br /> <br /> Norah glanced down at her phone, noticing a new message. <br /> <br /> It was from her friend, Joanna Andrews. "Norah, are you available tonight to join me at the Glamour Club? I heard Madeline has returned, and Derek's throwing her a welcome party tonight. It's going to be quite the event. Let's make our presence felt."<br /> <br /> Norah's response was brief. "Count me in."<br /> <br /> Joanna's message was just a single question mark. Norah's swift agreement caught Joanna off guard. <br /> <br /> Norah responded, "I'm officially divorced. So, I'm on my own from now on."<br /> <br /> The chat went quiet for a moment, then Joanna's response came through, bursting with excitement and a flurry of exclamation marks. "Norah, where are you at this moment? I'll get you immediately! Just give me ten seconds, and I'll be there!"<br /> <br /> Finding amusement in Joanna's enthusiasm, Norah sent Joanna a location in the Splendor Building and instructed the driver, "Please take me to the Splendor Building."<br /> <br /> The Splendor Building was well-known in Glophia for being a hub of luxury, featuring top-tier brands from around the globe. <br /> <br /> Upon Norah's arrival, she was warmly greeted. "Noelle, glad to see you. Are you here to hand over the design sketches?"<br /> <br /> The lavish dressing room was filled with stunning haute couture gowns, each adorned with shimmering diamonds that caught the light. <br /> <br /> Asodence's haute couture designer, Aaron Harvey, theatrically approached Norah, took her arm, and said, "It pains me every time I see you like this. Why hide your lovely face? You're the most exquisite flower, poised to blossom bravely."<br /> <br /> Norah blinked and replied, "I second that, Aaron. Can you assist me with a makeover?"<br /> <br /> Having expected Norah to retort, Aaron was on the verge of continuing the persuasion and suddenly froze at Norah's words. "Wait a minute. You... Noelle, are you truly contemplating a transformation? Oh my! Come to me was the finest decision you've ever made."<br /> <br /> Setting aside the topic of design drafts, Aaron guided Norah to the makeup chair, saying, "Just stay put. I assure you, you'll transform into a dazzling woman when I let your natural beauty and irresistible charm perform their magic."<br /> <br /> Aaron looked at Norah's simple outfit and tousled hair, then eagerly began her transformation with his makeup brush in hand. <br /> <br /> By the time Joanna arrived, Norah was still getting her makeup done. <br /> <br /> Joanna was familiar with Aaron. After greeting him, she settled into the nearby makeup chair and piqued, "Congrats, Norah, on your official return to your carefree self. Your loyal fan, Joanna, is all set and eager to follow your lead."<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 4 Glamour Club<br /> <br /> Norah offered a smile. "You sure have a way with words, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Joanna asked curiously, "Hey, didn't you develop feelings for Derek? What caused you to snap out of it and move on from being lovesick?"<br /> <br /> Norah's voice was icy as she answered, "I just caught Madeline and Derek having an affair."<br /> <br /> Joanna couldn't help but laugh. "Is Madeline that desperate for attention? She's barely back and already with someone else's husband. It makes me wonder what her life was like overseas. Well, I got to say you and Derek were so lovesick. He was hung up on his first love, and you were devoted to him who didn't reciprocate. Does love blind people that much?"<br /> <br /> As Joanna went on, Norah's mind wandered. Today was the first time she had seen Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah had only heard about Madeline through Derek and the household staff. They described Madeline as kind, empathetic, polite, and easygoing, presumably the type Derek was drawn to. <br /> <br /> Norah had always gone out of her way to care for Derek, adopting Madeline's supposed traits and even trying to look like her to catch Derek's eye. <br /> <br /> But being a replacement never quite measured up. Plus, Madeline wasn't at all the person Norah had imagined. <br /> <br /> Norah replied with little enthusiasm, "You'd understand if you ever felt love sting yourself."<br /> <br /> Joanna's brow furrowed. "Norah, I don't want to lose myself to love. I'd rather stay sharp and be there for you. Since you joined the Carter family, we barely see each other."<br /> <br /> After her marriage, Norah dedicated herself to Derek and the Carter family, leaving her past life and friendships behind. <br /> <br /> "Norah, now that you're divorced, are you going to the race at Krusa Mountain in five days?"<br /> <br /> "No," Norah flatly refused. "I haven't raced in two years. I'm out of touch."<br /> <br /> Joanna looked unconvinced. "Out of touch? Try a better excuse next time. Tell me, Norah, are you still holding onto hopes of getting back with that bastard Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna was on the verge of bad-mouthing Derek, but she brightened up. "Remember three years ago at that race? Nocturne was the only one who could keep up with you. Since your dropout, he's taken first place at Krusa Mountain Racing for the last two years. He's expected to compete again this year. Don't you want to see him?"<br /> <br /> The Krusa Mountain Racing was an exhilarating underground event, a gathering of the young and wealthy elite of Glophia who were enthusiasts of modified car racing. This event was known for its thrilling races and attracted a crowd that loved extreme sports. <br /> <br /> To protect the contestants' privacy, each racer in the competition would receive a mask from the organizers and go by code names during the race. <br /> <br /> A unique aspect of the race was that the winner could ask the defeated racers to remove their mask. <br /> <br /> Norah reminisced about the thrilling race three years ago, where Nocturne narrowly missed first place by just three seconds. <br /> <br /> Excitement flickered in her eyes as she said, "Well, I guess there's no harm in checking him out."<br /> <br /> Aaron's interest was piqued at the mention of "divorce." He asked, "You're divorced, Noelle? That man really doesn't know what he has lost. I bet he'll regret letting go of someone as precious as you. Anyway, about those design drafts..."<br /> <br /> Joanna's attention shifted to Aaron as she asked, "Norah, are you still working on designs for BelleVogue? No wonder some of their luxury line looks like your creations."<br /> <br /> Aaron beamed with pride, declaring, "Noelle's a top-notch fashion designer acknowledged by the High Fashion Association. She's known worldwide for her designs, which fetch sky-high prices. Luckily, being close to Noelle, I've been the only one to get a few of her creations over the past two years."<br /> <br /> Joanna rolled her eyes and said, "That's all because of Norah's talent. What's it got to do with you anyway? Come on, speed it up. I need to look stunning tonight, just like Norah."<br /> <br /> "Okay, okay. Just relax, and I'll make sure you both look fabulous."<br /> <br /> An hour later, they made their entrance at the Glamour Club. <br /> <br /> On the dance floor, vibrant lights twirled and illuminated the walls and floor. The music pumped with excitement as people danced, their faces beaming with joy. <br /> <br /> The second floor offered a quieter ambiance, where Norah lounging alone on a sofa, sipping her drink, drew curious looks. Norah wore a silver-white strapless mini dress, her chestnut hair lightly curled and cascading down her back. The elegant curve of her neck shone with a soft glow as she tilted her head to sip her drink. <br /> <br /> "There's my Norah!" exclaimed Joanna, sitting across from Norah. "You haven't gathered with me in the past two years, always dressed in those formal dresses at the Carter residence. Didn't you feel suffocated? It's so good to see you back in your element. It makes me so happy."<br /> <br /> Norah silently sipped her drink, offering no words. <br /> <br /> As the fiery liquid slid down her throat and into her belly, her body gradually heated up. <br /> <br /> Even though Norah married into the Carter family and tended to Derek daily, she still enjoyed dressing up and donning stylish outfits and lovely makeup. Yet, Sharon and Derek's sister, Kathy, often criticized her for being too showy. They claimed, with Derek bedridden, she had no business dressing up so extravagantly. <br /> <br /> Eventually, for Derek's sake, Norah dialed back on her grooming to dedicate herself entirely to his care, becoming his constant caregiver. <br /> <br /> But those days were all in the past. Free from the Carter family, Norah could now dress as she pleased, no longer concerned with their critiques. <br /> <br /> Joanna glanced at her phone and then looked up. "Norah, got any plans to disrupt Derek's stupid welcome party later? Do you want me to bring some people to make a scene?"<br /> <br /> Norah's eyes were fixed on the golden liquid swirling in her glass as she gently moved it. "We didn't just come to the Glamour Club for no reason, did we? So, who's the person you've set me up to meet?"<br /> <br /> Joanna looked surprised, then flashed a cunning smile. "Norah, what are you getting at? We're here just to stir things up!"<br /> <br /> "The Glamour Club belongs to the Morris family. I'd rather not get on their bad side," Norah said calmly. "I know Derek's stupid party is just a sideshow. So, come clean with me. Who's looking to meet me through your arrangements?"<br /> <br /> Their conversation was cut off by a ringing phone. Joanna quickly picked up, her face shifting with the call. Signaling she had to step away, she murmured, "I've got to take this. Be right back."<br /> <br /> Norah saw the worry on Joanna's face and understood Joanna had something pressing to attend to. She nodded and set her drink down, the glass chiming lightly on the table. <br /> <br /> Regardless of what plans were being made through Joanna, Norah trusted that Joanna wouldn't turn on her. <br /> <br /> "Hey there, beautiful, are you all by yourself? Mind if I join you for a drink?"<br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> Chapter 5 shut up<br /> <br /> Derek and Madeline had just arrived at the Glamour Club when Kathy and some of her close friends were seated in a booth upstairs. <br /> <br /> "Madeline, you're back! I've missed you so much," Kathy said, giving Madeline a big, dramatic hug to show how thrilled she was. <br /> <br /> Madeline returned the hug but was a bit reserved, softly saying to Kathy, "Why are you still behaving like a kid?"<br /> <br /> Then, turning her attention to Derek, Madeline added, "Staying young at heart is nice. I think you're the only one who truly keeps me close."<br /> <br /> Kathy, being sharp, caught the hidden message in Madeline's words. She stood up for Derek, saying, "Madeline, Derek was so lost without you while you were away. When you returned, he promptly ended things with that woman from the Wilson family!"<br /> <br /> Previously, Kathy had been upset with Madeline for the latter's leaving, especially since Derek had ended up in a coma after a car crash. But after watching Derek grieve and drink his days away, longing for Madeline upon waking, Kathy's hard feelings fade. She figured if Derek and Madeline were together and made Derek happy, she should be all for it. She was all in on cheering for Derek and Madeline getting back together. <br /> <br /> After Kathy finished speaking, her friends around them burst into an excited conversation. <br /> <br /> Madeline couldn't resist a smile as she savored the lively atmosphere. She settled beside Derek, her eyes sparkling as she looked at him. <br /> <br /> Derek had daydreamed about this moment more times than he could count, yet facing it in real life brought a strange mix of excitement and unease like his dreams didn't match reality. <br /> <br /> He was about to speak to Madeline, but Kathy's voice cut in. "Derek, look, isn't that Norah?"<br /> <br /> All eyes in the booth shifted in that direction. <br /> <br /> Derek saw Norah, dazzling in a silver-white sequined dress that hugged her figure perfectly. Her brown hair flowed beautifully down her back, and her makeup was flawlessly applied, making her stand out like a radiant goddess among the crowd. <br /> <br /> With just a glance, Derek knew it was Norah without a doubt. <br /> <br /> Several men surrounded Norah, led by a hefty guy, while a few others wore menacing expressions. <br /> <br /> The dim light made it difficult for Derek to make out Norah's expression. He was unsure whether she felt scared or was enjoying the attention. <br /> <br /> "Mr. Carter, your wife is a true beauty."<br /> <br /> "That guy is Mr. Smith leading the pack, right? He's known for being a bully, using his brother's status in the entertainment business to act all high and mighty. If she gets involved with Mr. Smith, things won't turn out well for her."<br /> <br /> "And who says she's against it? Just look at her outfit. She's bound to catch every eye here in the Glamour Club."<br /> <br /> "When Mr. Carter showed up with his wife at the party in the past, I failed to note how gorgeous she was. I never imagined she'd be this stunning with such an amazing figure!"<br /> <br /> Kathy echoed, "Before Derek woke up, she was always out there, dressing in a way that turns heads, just looking to catch the eyes of men. Now that Derek's not with her anymore, she'll have to hustle to support herself. She's sharp, already snagging Mr. Smith's attention."<br /> <br /> Her friends brought Kathy's words and chuckled among themselves. <br /> <br /> Derek couldn't hide his annoyance, sharply cutting them off, "Stop it!"<br /> <br /> Derek fixed Kathy with a stern look. "Kathy, where did you learn to talk like that? You're lacking in manners. A lady should know better than to say those words."<br /> <br /> Kathy hung her head, feeling the weight of his words. She feared Derek more than anyone, her eyes brimming with tears. <br /> <br /> Madeline gave Derek a gentle pat on the back and said, "Kathy's still young. No need to be too hard on her, okay? What's got you so upset with her?"<br /> <br /> Glancing at Norah, Madeline added, "If Norah hadn't seen us together today, she wouldn't have ended up here tonight, on the hunt..."<br /> <br /> Derek's mood darkened even more and snapped, "I'm no part of the reason for her choices." Could Norah, if naturally sneaky, hide her true self by acting innocent? Certainly not. <br /> <br /> Norah was already riled up about Derek's harsh words and Madeline's return. The person who'd reached out via Joanna hadn't shown up yet, adding to her frustration. With her patience wore thin, Norah snapped, "Get lost!"<br /> <br /> Jordy Smith couldn't handle the rejection properly. "Who do you think you are? Aren't you here looking for company? I'm more than capable of keeping you company!"<br /> <br /> Norah calmly smiled as she saw his chubby hand inching toward her shoulder. She quickly snatched his wrist and pushed him away. <br /> <br /> Jordy yelped, stumbling back a few steps before collapsing. He clutched his wrist, grimacing in agony. "How dare you do this to me?"<br /> <br /> The commotion from upstairs briefly halted when Jordy let out a howl, then resumed again. <br /> <br /> Norah stood firm, warning, "Try it again, and you'll pay the price."<br /> <br /> Jordy snarled, "Do you know who I am? Who do you think you're messing with? I could have you gone from Glophia by tomorrow."<br /> <br /> Norah remained unfazed. She reached for her designer handbag beside her and started searching through it. <br /> <br /> Thinking she was scared by his words and wanted to call for backup, Jordy said arrogantly, "I won't let you off the hook easily! I can pull some strings..."<br /> <br /> "Derek, where are you going?" Seeing Derek beside her rise abruptly, Madeline swiftly clasped his hand and asked, "You're not planning to help Norah, are you?"<br /> <br /> Derek looked serious as he explained, "Norah and I are still married in the eyes of the law. She's technically still part of the Carter family. If she's bullied, it reflects poorly on the Carter family."<br /> <br /> Madeline attempted to hold him back. "Derek, if you keep quiet, nobody knows she's your wife. She's asking for trouble on her own..."<br /> <br /> Seeing the resolve on Derek's face, Madeline pressed on, "Let's not forget she doused us with water earlier today. Besides, she's fine. Whatever trouble she finds herself in, she's asked for it. She's just playing the victim."<br /> <br /> In the middle of Jordy's bluster, Norah coolly pulled a business card from her purse and flung it at Jordy's feet, commanding, "Shut up!"<br /> <br /> But Jordy was too worked up to stop. Without checking the business card, he commented, "Why do you think throwing a business card at me will make me shut up? That's hilarious! You're not getting out of Glamour Club today without an apology!"<br /> <br /> <br /> &2&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-E	105235075579900	Funread	https://facebook.com/100083845110483	11,063	1	2,722,266,744,747,398	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Learn more	Funread	120208090758050660	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1910509592737470	2024-04-23 03:14	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438095392_439871855288391_8510883990238077053_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qOvNJNbH5ugQ7kNvgGaYyh1&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCTD95NUzut72h_hWPz_vQ79-KkbfCjz60hxRu83UrBAQ&oe=6634C3A9	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-sjc3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437557540_456972406902100_6056649093339345336_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=dW2w68VsKn0Q7kNvgFh128J&_nc_ht=scontent-sjc3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAX3DBoCJiSCf06CjfL14T573d-CC35hxxiZyrWqpAcyg&oe=6634AD1B	3	Funread	2024-04-28 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,573,328	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1573546}'	No	2024-04-28 15:18	active	630	745043914134725	Americans With $10,000+ Credit Card Debt Can Now Claim $1,000s In Relief...	🇺🇸 FINALLY! Justice & relief for Americans with credit card debt with any of these big banks...:<br /> <br /> 💳 Chase?<br /> 💳 American Express?<br /> 💳 Citi?<br /> 💳 Capital One?<br /> 💳 Bank Of America?<br /> 💳 Discover?<br /> 💳 U.S. Bank?<br /> 💳 Wells Fargo?<br /> <br /> After publishing record profits (even during the pandemic)… a group of financial whistleblowers investigated the practices of these 8 big banks.<br /> <br /> They found that they had been WRONGFULLY charging high interest rates, fees & penalties to over 14 million Americans with credit card debt.<br /> <br /> But THANKFULLY a new Christian-led program has been launched to finally get you the relief & compensation you deserve - saving you $1000s!<br /> <br /> Here’s the criteria to know if you qualify:<br /> <br /> ✅ Must Be An American Citizen<br /> ✅ Must Have Over $10,000 In Credit Card Debt<br /> ✅ Must Be Making Your Minimum Payments<br /> <br /> Think you may be eligible? Call the FREE Credit Card Debt Giveback Program now to file a claim and see how many $1,000s you are entitled to.<br /> <br /> Here’s the fast track route: (877) 906-7241 ☎️	LEARN_MORE	https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-mtca-new	104967212316940	The American Debt Bureau	https://facebook.com/theamericandebtbureau	310	3	1,804,934,353,336,265	2024-04-27 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	The American Debt Bureau	120209109163980694	www.thedebtbureau.org	NONE	video		https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-mtca-newscont-cclp-dns25mlal-cc	2024-04-21 17:18	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437360721_997478475299701_5100333436261739090_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gwRMI-KzYREQ7kNvgHyLke_&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBEyxeQhbdNqBdDJsOehj6fMIfoUj3EAXAbAAI1e1Kq3g&oe=66348083	person_profile	The American Debt Bureau	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440213357_1487744635456269_5354387073081764044_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=V89gx2_D5TkQ7kNvgGu1rCj&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC7GQV3dKnZNcGNxLuf3uECzBGIVMZk2ODqvsNo0rvU4Q&oe=66348906	3	The American Debt Bureau	2024-04-23 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,571,046	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1571036}'	No	2024-04-28 14:56	active	627	397392003204707	Neutralizes 99% of Bacteria And Cleans Itself	The LARQ Bottle PureVis™ is the world's first self-cleaning water bottle and water purification system. It uses PureVis technology to eliminate up to 99%* of bio-contaminants such as E. coli from your water and bottle. 💧 Removes 100+ contaminants from water 🌟 Over 5000+ 5-star reviews 🦈 As seen on Shark Tank 🦠 Neutralizes bio-contaminants 😍 Award-winning design	SHOP_NOW	https://www.livelarq.com/purification/larq-bottle-	682906438559761	LARQ	https://facebook.com/livelarq	21,056	0	1,473,810,846,880,573	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Shop Now	LARQ	120209517728480154	www.livelarq.com	NONE	dco	A Smart Way To Sip	https://www.livelarq.com/purification/larq-bottle-purevis-insulated-monaco-blue?size=17oz	2024-04-27 02:06	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438082292_1156300562062709_2973215621907673074_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ifpFMsCNKEMQ7kNvgHef5LV&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCVqEWeKlYLk3JCkyHq-FXPdbk7XVj8STM4Kxld5lNWCQ&oe=66347E36	person_profile	LARQ	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437570558_452795667248461_9022924265238771346_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=AQFc_gNnww0Q7kNvgHs_zbq&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCOmpRYLlwxw-Kh_0NfwMEnJ5rOxe1u12mKxzZpgOgIbg&oe=6634741F	3	LARQ	2024-04-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,525,887	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	No	2024-04-27 19:15	active	613	458678563397386	Custom player name sign lights	💘 Personalized player name sign lights 😍<br /> buy now 🎁 <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jacacas.com%2FSK320&h=AT0yp8skbvBgvR-jGUhX7TAKMVwC088unFpKDtsld9Eb_zxx6ygOQxmHGqiF13HGzTg57Xjj3UQeICsF_47HprzdPPJI9iHEb7PFabKmVKayoyn_KJJT1qk3jOlKFEG6Uhu1ISZdkJphbG9MoHIuoOvy1L4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" data-lynx-mode="asynclazy">https://www.jacacas.com/SK320</a><br /> <br /> 💘😍 The perfect gift for your friends or family	SHOP_NOW	https://www.jacacas.com/SK320	105145992238003	jacacas.com	https://facebook.com/jacacascom	43	2	974,341,453,799,419	2024-01-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Shop now	jacacas.com	120201470943190773	jacacas.com	NONE	image	Personalized player name sign lights	https://www.jacacas.com/SK320	2023-12-09 02:07	https://scontent.fbtr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/408072893_891571949158846_8468600038611073071_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RSZMLuirJbIQ7kNvgE-D428&_nc_ht=scontent.fbtr1-1.fna&oh=00_AfA6PevFWH5IaWyWoMv1GKPkcO3Dlba-ruYF_Ypl8MK-VA&oe=66335522	person_profile	jacacas.com	https://scontent.fbtr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/409594892_1482001042654835_4939346422254918081_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gj9SpfQtBJUQ7kNvgHEsWH8&_nc_ht=scontent.fbtr1-1.fna&oh=00_AfDGL3ruPCtVIstRN-T-X50SQeWz2cfoT-JJ1616AK4l0Q&oe=66337E37	3	jacacas.com	2023-12-27 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,573,654	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1573256}'	Yes	2024-04-28 15:18	active	630	1192342988772409	Program Writes Off $10k+ In Credit Card Debt For Struggling Americans...	MASSIVE CONCERN: American Citizens now owe over $1 TRILLION in credit card debt to the big banks & credit card companies in 2024… ⚠️<br /> <br /> … and it’s estimated that more than $150 billion in credit card debt interest will be paid this year.<br /> <br /> Thankfully a NEW credit card debt relief program has been created to fight back against all the big banks & credit card companies.<br /> <br /> They are pledging to help everyday Americans:<br /> <br /> ✅ Reduce Credit Card Debt Interest To $0<br /> ✅ Fully Write Off Credit Card Debt By 50%<br /> ✅ Put $1,000s Back In Your Pocket Every Month<br /> <br /> If you have over $10,000+ in credit card debt you qualify for the program & getting started is easy, all it takes is a 15-minute call: (855) 429-1235<br /> <br /> The funding for this relief program is limited, so we’re urging anyone who has $10,000+ in credit card debt to call immediately while you can! ☎️<br /> <br /> P.S. Over 521,952+ people have already called to find out how many $1,000s they now qualify for!	LEARN_MORE	https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-1trilldc	107307332001305	The US Debt Bureau	https://facebook.com/theusdebtbureau	444	2	8,209,228,055,772,275	2024-04-26 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	The US Debt Bureau	120209183690070694	www.thedebtbureau.org	NONE	video		https://thedebtbureau.org/10k-cc-debt-dns-1trilldca-newscontv2-cclp-cc	2024-04-23 04:27	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440085734_800915558127033_5608993756964376523_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=NQiDXe3iQm8Ab4jevsI&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfB3GOv91pTvrPer9d2QJCjJfGwKmtM87WGIxE4WZGKbFg&oe=6634831E	person_profile	The US Debt Bureau	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439805108_1084378945973762_3700509063748159729_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=U2y9qWSrVhMAb4GTdjQ&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCJKYqyWuBmSEGaYoBFGDmBZqBg-2zUkG8rCqLWX1DDjA&oe=663495B3	3	The US Debt Bureau	2024-04-23 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,571,018	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1571036}'	Yes	2024-04-28 14:56	active	627	416085370765357	Neutralizes 99% of Bacteria And Cleans Itself	The LARQ Bottle PureVis™ is the world's first self-cleaning water bottle and water purification system. It uses PureVis technology to eliminate up to 99%* of bio-contaminants such as E. coli from your water and bottle. 💧 Removes 100+ contaminants from water 🌟 Over 5000+ 5-star reviews 🦈 As seen on Shark Tank 🦠 Neutralizes bio-contaminants 😍 Award-winning design	SHOP_NOW	https://www.livelarq.com/purification/larq-bottle-	682906438559761	LARQ	https://facebook.com/livelarq	21,056	0	344,698,398,197,302	2024-04-28 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Shop Now	LARQ	120209517763120154	www.livelarq.com	NONE	dco	A Smart Way To Sip	https://www.livelarq.com/purification/larq-bottle-purevis-insulated-monaco-blue?size=17oz	2024-04-27 02:06	https://scontent-lga3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438128813_421292897270506_3727567359650225471_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=fu2uBlvfF_cQ7kNvgFwgBO5&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-2.xx&oh=00_AfDO4-9m7J7J-oKzkLi2y9wCe6qZCFt3oiuuwF0awvSiOw&oe=66348A6A	person_profile	LARQ	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/437673290_287778197717396_6470153552427983898_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MhiXexjOCdMQ7kNvgEKKk6R&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBwkovY6moDR2nVdmga87dlrx3RwicGqWjPtNDfeS-yjw&oe=6634624B	3	LARQ	2024-04-27 02:00	View Edit Delete

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