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1,652,513	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1652244}'	No	2024-05-03 04:08	active	680	1224104278571749	Continuar lendo👉👉👉	A amante do marido voltou e ele entregou-lhe um acordo de divórcio. Desiludida, ela percebeu que era apenas uma substituta, virou as costas e partiu, retornando poderosa como herdeira de um império comercial.<br /> ======<br /> <br /> Capítulo1 Divórcio<br /> "Imagine se a Norah nos flagrasse aqui. Você acha que ela ficaria tão irritada a ponto de chorar?", disse a mulher, num tom de brincadeira. <br /> <br /> "Após todos esses anos, nunca dividimos um toque sequer. Ela sempre dorme no quarto de visitas ao lado", resmungou o homem antes de prosseguir. <br /> <br /> "Derek, você tem sido tão gentil comigo..."<br /> <br /> No quarto levemente iluminado, um homem e uma mulher estavam compartilhando momentos de afeto. <br /> <br /> Ao lado deles, um quadro retratando uma noiva decorava a parede impecável, emanando uma expressão de suave contentamento. <br /> <br /> Neste instante, uma jovem à porta cobriu a boca com as mãos, lágrimas escorrendo pelo rosto ao ouvir a conversa. <br /> <br /> Após um breve instante, o íntimo momento dos dois foi abruptamente interrompido. <br /> <br /> Derek Carter vestiu uma bermuda e se levantou para buscar um copo de água. Ao se deparar com Norah Wilson sentada em silêncio na sala de estar, uma expressão de surpresa se desenhou no rosto dele. <br /> <br /> Quando Norah tinha retornado e o que ela poderia ter escutado? <br /> <br /> "Você ouviu tudo?", Derek perguntou casualmente, já sentado no sofá da sala com um copo de água. <br /> <br /> Marcas sugestivas cobria o corpo de Derek, mas ele não se importou se Norah as notasse ou como ela reagiria. Ele se limitou a tomar um gole de água. <br /> <br /> "Está na hora de você assinar isso", disse Derek, tirando uma pasta de uma gaveta e a jogando sobre a mesa. "Já que provavelmente ouviu tudo, não há sentido em prolongar o assunto."<br /> <br /> Timidamente, Norah pegou o documento, seus olhos logo encontrando as palavras "Acordo de Divórcio" na página inicial. Ela folheou até o final, notando a assinatura elaborada de Derek Carter. <br /> <br /> "Você pode revisar tudo. Se você quiser adicionar algo, me avise. Se não, apenas assine", ordenou Derek. <br /> <br /> Se recostando, Derek acendeu um cigarro, a fumaça ocultando sua indiferença. <br /> <br /> "Você não pode nos dar outra chance?", Norah indagou com a voz rouca devido às lágrimas, a sua franja elegante caindo sobre a borda escura dos óculos, destacando seu olhar melancólico. <br /> <br /> Desde que Norah entrou para a família Carter, sempre se dedicava a Derek, ansiando por um futuro repleto de felicidade. <br /> <br /> As lembranças do garoto que a resgatou de uma tempestade de neve alimentavam sua esperança, desejando uma mínima oportunidade de permanecer ao lado dele. <br /> <br /> "Norah, não seja tão patética. Você sabe o que aconteceu entre mim e a Madeline. Então, por que insistir em ser minha esposa? Não se desvalorize", retorquiu Derek, demonstrando sua impaciência ao bater as cinzas no cinzeiro. Logo, ele adicionou: "Nosso casamento nunca passou de um acordo."<br /> <br /> O coração de Norah afundou. Ela finalmente compreendeu que era Madeline Powell quem Derek realmente amava. E ela finalmente entendeu isso. <br /> <br /> Ela se inclinou, brincando com a barra das vestimentas. Foi só então que relembrou que, quando Madeline aparecia, toda a atenção de Derek se voltava para ela. <br /> <br /> Há alguns anos, quando Madeline partiu para o exterior, Derek a seguiu, mas acabou sofrendo um terrível acidente de carro que o deixou inconsciente.<br /> <br /> Naquela época, Derek deveria se casar com Luna Wilson, da família Wilson. No entanto, Luna se envolveu com outro homem e teve um filho, levando os Wilsons a oferecerem Norah como substituta. Então, Norah assumiu o lugar de Luna, se tornando esposa de Derek. <br /> <br /> Norah se dedicou aos cuidados de Derek, cortando quase todos os laços com sua vida anterior. Ela abandonou as suas paixões, incluindo design, corridas de carros, medicina e programação, apenas para se concentrar exclusivamente nele. <br /> <br /> Quando Derek finalmente acordou do coma, há um ano, ainda era Norah que estava cuidando dele incansavelmente, permanecendo ao seu lado sem falhar. Mesmo assim, Derek parecia estar cego pela ternura de Madeline quabdo ela voltou do exterior. <br /> <br /> Apesar de dois anos de casamento e cuidados, Norah teve que admitir que não tinha conquistado um lugar no coração de Derek. <br /> <br /> Sem receber qualquer resposta de Norah, Derek não pôde deixar de franzir a testa, observando-a à sua frente. <br /> <br /> Embora Norah fosse indiscutivelmente atraente, com sua franja densa e óculos grandes que moldavam o seu rosto, muitas vezes, ela negligenciava sua aparência, parecendo descuidada. Sua personalidade era excessivamente reservada. <br /> <br /> Desde que Derek acordou do coma, Norah esteve ao seu lado o tempo todo. Mas, além de não sentir nenhuma conexão emocional com ela, ele a achava incrivelmente chata. <br /> <br /> O constante cuidado e atenção, juntamente com a vida rotineira, eram tão monótonos quanto água pura. Derek achava tudo isso extremamente maçante. <br /> <br /> Ele reconhecia o papel de Norah como uma competente cuidadora da família Carter nos últimos dois anos, mas nunca sentiu que ela estava preparada para ser sua parceira. <br /> <br /> Ao apagar outro cigarro, Derek comentou casualmente: "Esta é a casa da família Carter..."<br /> <br /> Ele parou e notou Norah abaixando a cabeça. A tristeza evidente na sua postura o irritou. <br /> <br /> "Estou ciente de sua infelicidade com a família Wilson. Após o divórcio, eu darei para você três casas e trinta milhões. Você pode escolher qualquer carro na garagem. Isso deve garantir uma vida confortável para você no futuro", ofereceu Derek. <br /> <br /> Derek não esqueceria a diligência de Norah em cuidar dele enquanto estava acamado e sua companhia durante seus exercícios de recuperação depois que ele acordou do coma. <br /> <br /> Embora Derek não tivesse afeto por Norah, estava disposto a oferecer um acordo generoso por seus anos de dedicação. Ela realmente dedicou os melhores dois anos de sua vida a ele. <br /> <br /> Quando Derek cruzou os braços, Norah notou uma pequena tatuagem na clavícula dele, o que aumentou sua angústia. Eram as iniciais MP, de Madeline Powell. <br /> <br /> A paciência de Derek acabou. "Dadas as circunstâncias, eu darei a você um dia para pensar sobre isso. Se os termos não forem aceitos, fique à vontade para sugerir ajustes, mas não exagere. Eu não sou conhecido pela minha paciência..."<br /> <br /> "Não tem necessidade de eu pensar sobre isso." Norah pegou a caneta da mesa e assinou suavemente os documentos do divórcio. "Eu vou arrumar minhas coisas e partir em breve. Não quero mais atrapalhar seu caminho."<br /> <br /> Derek acenou para ela em um sinal de aprovação. "Fico feliz em ouvir isso."<br /> <br /> Derek gostava de como Norah sempre obedecia a ele, como uma serva que nunca questionava as suas decisões. Hoje, por exemplo, ela poderia ter causado tumulto, mas preferiu manter a paz. <br /> <br /> Para Derek, as atitudes de Norah eram tediosas demais. Ele tinha medo de que conviver com alguém tão comum pudesse acabar o influenciando. Afinal, o amor não era algo que se podia ser forçado. <br /> <br /> No momento em que Derek estava prestes a falar algo após ler o contrato, Madeline surgiu elegantemente vestida com uma camisa branca, que mal cobria suas coxas, com apenas alguns botões fechados, revelando muita pele. <br /> <br /> Seu cabelo, que ainda estava úmido, fazia a camisa grudar levemente na sua pele, adicionando um atrativo à sua aparência. <br /> <br /> Ao perceber o movimento, Norah se virou e imediatamente reconheceu que Madeline estava usando a camisa de Derek, que ela havia selecionado para ele. <br /> <br /> Seus olhares se cruzaram e Madeline deu a Norah um sorriso presunçoso e zombeteiro. <br /> <br /> Quando o olhar de Derek seguiu na mesma direção, Madeline rapidamente disfarçou o sorriso. <br /> <br /> "Norah, nós finalmente nos encontramos. Meu nome é Madeline Powell", ela se apresentou com graça, se aproximando de Derek e se sentando ao seu lado. Se apoiando levemente sobre o ombro dele, ela disse: "Derek mencionou você várias vezes. É um prazer te conhecer."<br /> <br /> Norah, sem saber o que dizer, baixou os olhos em resposta. <br /> <br /> Madeline, então, cutucou Derek de brincadeira. "Eu ouvi dizer que você está oferecendo três casas para Norah. Você sabe que eu quero aquela casa perto do lago, certo? Por que você prometeu dar a ela? Não me ama mais?"<br /> <br /> Derek, sempre tão condescendente com os caprichos de Madeline, se voltou para Norah. "Vou encontrar outra casa para você."<br /> <br /> Norah olhou para Derek por cima dos óculos e disse: "Mas você não disse que aquela era para mim?"<br /> <br /> O beicinho de Madeline se tornou mais evidente. "Derek..."<br /> <br /> O rosto de Derek revelou o seu aborrecimento. "Norah, você não ouviu o que acabei de dizer? São casas minhas. Se não concorda com as mudanças, não obterá nenhuma delas."<br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo2 Ensinando a ela uma lição<br /> <br /> "Norah, o meu coração está naquela casa à beira do lago. Escolha uma diferente para você. Eu sonhei que aquela seria a minha nova casa com Derek", confessou Madeline, se aninhando mais perto do braço de Derek. "É um desejo que eu tenho há bastante tempo."<br /> <br /> Derek sentiu uma onda de lembranças ao ouvir as palavras dela. <br /> <br /> Norah soltou uma risada suave em resposta. <br /> <br /> "Por que você está rindo?", perguntou Derek, confuso. <br /> <br /> Madeline se recostou em Derek. Distraída brincando com uma mecha de seu cabelo, ela capturou a atenção de Derek, que então colocou a mão no ombro dela de forma natural. <br /> <br /> Norah respondeu com frieza: "Eu estou rindo da minha própria tolice."<br /> <br /> Sem hesitar, Norah pegou o copo de água de Derek da mesa e o derramou sobre Derek e Madeline, deixando eles em choque com a súbita cascata de água. <br /> <br /> Derek, indignado, exclamou: "Norah, você enlouqueceu?"<br /> <br /> Em pé, Norah replicou: "Senhor Carter, eu pensei que você fosse um homem de palavra. Já que você deu a sua palavra, a cumpra. Caso contrário, só admita que você é um homem de pouca honra e quebrará a sua promessa."<br /> <br /> Madeline, acostumada à tolerância de Derek, possuía um temperamento feroz. Ela apenas fingia vulnerabilidade e submissão para ganhar o afeto dos homens. <br /> <br /> Enfurecida, Madeline se levantou e empurrou Norah com força. "Derek já foi piedoso o suficiente com você. Acha que pode falar com a gente dessa maneira? Quem você pensa que é? Como se atreve a tratar Derek e eu com tanto desrespeito?"<br /> <br /> Então, ela buscou refúgio nos braços de Derek novamente. "Derek, Norah ultrapassou os limites. Você precisa ensinar uma lição para ela."<br /> <br /> Olhando com tristeza para Derek, ela implorou: "Veja, o meu cabelo e minhas roupas estão encharcados."<br /> <br /> A camisa branca molhada colava no corpo dela, realçando sua figura elegante. <br /> <br /> Norah observava-os calmamente, como se estivesse assistindo a um espetáculo de circo. <br /> <br /> "Eu não implorei por essas casas e propriedades. A família Carter é rica o bastante, mas ainda hesita em questões tão pequenas. Eu entendo. Você me considera não merecedora", disse Norah, num tom zombeteiro, mas sem amargura. <br /> <br /> Derek percebeu uma mudança significativa na atitude de Norah, reconhecendo que ela havia mudado consideravelmente. Ele apertou a mandíbula, enxugando a água do rosto antes de se virar para Madeline. "Há muitas casas em meu nome. Escolha qualquer outra que você quiser e ela será sua."<br /> <br /> Mesmo assim, a raiva de Madeline por Norah ainda fervia. Ninguém, além de Derek, ousava desrespeitá-la assim. A ideia de Norah, a ex-esposa indesejada de Derek, agir daquela maneira era insuportável para Madeline. <br /> <br /> Encarando Norah com hostilidade, Madeline exigiu: "Então, você vai abrir mão daquela casa ou não?"<br /> <br /> A resposta de Norah foi firme: "Não vou."<br /> <br /> Slap! <br /> <br /> O som de um tapa ecoou quando Madeline estapeou Norah com força. <br /> <br /> "Como se atreve?! Fora do círculo de Derek, você não é ninguém na família Wilson. Você é apenas uma bastarda!" Madeline retrucou. <br /> <br /> O rosto de Derek ficou nublado por um momento antes que ele recuperasse a calma, aconselhando Madeline: "Não fique chateada por causa dela."<br /> <br /> Norah tocou na sua bochecha, que tremia com a queimadura do tapa. Ela sentiu o gosto de sangue e olhou para Madeline, murmurando: "Você não tem educação..."<br /> <br /> Madeline encontrou abrigo nos braços de Derek, se gabando: "Eu tenho Derek ao meu lado. E você? Você não passa de uma... Ah! Norah!"<br /> <br /> Norah arremessou um vaso nela. O objeto atingiu o piso próximo ao sofá, se estilhaçando com um ruído agudo. <br /> <br /> "Se você quer latir assim, fique à vontade", rebateu Norah, se aproximando, e segurou Madeline pelos cabelos, obrigando-a a encará-la antes de dar um tapa vigoroso nela. <br /> <br /> O grito de Madeline ecoou pela sala. "Derek!"<br /> <br /> Derek lutou contra a sua fúria, sentindo que Norah tinha ultrapassado os limites naquele momento. <br /> <br /> Após soltar Madeline, Norah recuou, dizendo despreocupadamente: "Vou deixar vocês dois a sós. Que vocês encontrem alegria, tenham muitos filhos e compartilhem um vínculo para toda a vida."<br /> <br /> Então, Norah se retirou da casa de Derek, deixando para trás o som dos soluços de Madeline. <br /> <br /> Mesmo com a porta batendo, Madeline permaneceu furiosa e reclamou para Derek: "Dá para acreditar nela? Ela nos encharcou com água e ainda me deu um tapa. Você precisa ensinr uma lição a ela..."<br /> <br /> "Já chega!", Derek interrompeu. Massageando as têmporas, ele suavizou a voz. "Estamos divorciados agora. Não quero mais me envolver com ela. Madeline, eu realizarei os seus desejos. Apenas se acalme, por favor."<br /> <br /> Com um bico, Madeline se aconchegou nos braços de Derek, expressando sua frustração: "O comportamento de Norah com você me irrita. Você sempre mencionou o quão complacente ela é, mas ela foi tudo menos isso. Ela parecia ser tão agressiva."<br /> <br /> Derek se lembrou de Norah pegando o copo e jogando a água, e do olhar gélido que ela dirigiu a Madeline quando deu um tapa forte nela. Era um lado de Norah que ele nunca presenciou antes. <br /> <br /> Naquele instante, ele percebeu que ele não conhecia Norah. Sua impressão anterior de Norah se baseava unicamente na submissão dela. <br /> <br /> Ao sair, Norah encontrou um sedã preto a aguardando no portão. O motorista, respeitosamente, informou: "Senhora Norah Carter, a senhora Juliana Carter solicitou a sua presença."<br /> <br /> Pega de surpresa e sem saber quais seriam os seus próximos passos, Norah entrou no veículo sem hesitação. <br /> <br /> O carro parou gradativamente em frente a uma grande mansão. Era a Mansão Carter, residência dos avós de Derek. <br /> <br /> "Senhora Norah Carter...", cumprimentou o mordomo, conduzindo a aparentemente apreensiva Norah para dentro. <br /> <br /> O mordomo parecia querer conversar mais, mas optou por permanecer em silêncio. "A senhora Juliana Carter mencionou que faz tempo que não te vê. O jantar ainda não foi servido. Talvez você possa passar um tempo com ela antes disso."<br /> <br /> Norah baixou os olhos e não lhe respondeu. Ela tinha a sensação de que Juliana estava tentando persuadi-la a reconsiderar o divórcio. <br /> <br /> A mansão, geralmente quieta e ocupada apenas pelos avós de Derek, ganhou vida quando Juliana Carter, avó de Derek, notou a chegada de Norah e a convidou cordialmente, dizendo: "Norah, venha aqui e se sente."<br /> <br /> Se sentando, Norah cumprimentou Juliana com um sorriso, apesar da agitação interna. <br /> <br /> Juliana segurou a mão de Norah, demonstrando preocupação: "Faz muito tempo que você não nos visita. Como andam as coisas com Derek?"<br /> <br /> Norah pensou que Juliana estava a avaliando. Ela duvidava que Juliana não soubesse da volta de Madeline ao país. <br /> <br /> Com calma, Norah compartilhou: "Derek acredita que nós deveríamos nos separar. Bem, eu acabei de assinar o nosso acordo de divórcio, abrindo caminho para Madeline."<br /> <br /> A resposta de Juliana foi direta. "Madeline? Foram as ações dela que causaram o incidente com o carro de Derek. Como ela ousa voltar para a vida dele? Não se preocupe com isso, prefiro você do que essa mulher. Então, existe alguma chance de você reconsiderar o divórcio?"<br /> <br /> A preocupação de Juliana deixou Norah triste. Por dois anos, ela teve amor por Derek, mas não conseguiu despertar o mesmo sentimento nele. <br /> <br /> "Divorciados? Ótimo!" A mãe de Derek, Sharon Carter, se aproximou com um sorriso astuto, sua presença emanando elegância e charme enquanto ela se movia com uma graciosidade cativante. <br /> <br /> Juliana, ao observar o seu comportamento, ficou furiosa. "Ande direito! Por que você está andando assim? Onde está sua educação?"<br /> <br /> Surpreendida pela repreensão, a expressão de Sharon mudou para uma de desconforto. Ela olhou para Norah, sentada ao lado de Juliana, e disse com um tom gélido: "Ainda bem que vocês estão separados. Inicialmente, Derek iria se casar com Luna Wilson, a filha mais velha da família Wilson. E adivinha? Luna se envolveu vergonhosamente com uma outra pessoa e acabou ficando grávida."<br /> <br /> Ela continuou: "Durante os meus longos anos em Glophia, eu nunca ouvi falar de a família Wilson ter outra filha. Fico me perguntando de onde veio essa mulher ilegítima... Assumindo o papel de esposa de Derek nos últimos dois anos, esta mulher não aproveitou riqueza e prosperidade suficientes?"<br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo3 A transformação de Norah<br /> <br /> Norah segurou a mão de Juliana, seu rosto radiante com um sorriso, aparentemente alheio aos comentários ríspidos de Sharon. "Parece que você está tossindo um pouco. Eu conheço uma sopa que vai te ajudar. Darei a receita ao mordomo depois."<br /> <br /> Juliana, sempre admirando a gentileza e a consideração natural de Norah, respondeu calorosamente: "Você é um anjo, Norah. Bem, eu não sou mais uma jovem e minha saúde tem se deteriorado com o tempo. Você, minha querida, é a única que se preocupa tanto comigo."<br /> <br /> Se sentindo ignorada, Sharon empalideceu enquanto debochava: "Ah, pare com isso. Pare com essa encenação! Agora que o divórcio foi assinado, você não precisa mais fingir. Você realmente acha que ficar perto de Juliana lhe dará o direito de continuar se beneficiando da família Carter?"<br /> <br /> Antes que Norah pudesse responder, Juliana interveio: "Norah sempre foi gentil conosco desde que se uniu à nossa família. Ela esteve ao lado de Derek durante todo o coma, cuidando dele com dedicação. Sem contar que sempre tratou eu e você com respeito. Por que você está sendo tão ingrata agora, depois de tudo que ela fez pela nossa família nos últimos dois anos?"<br /> <br /> "Juliana! Norah não passa de uma filha bastarda dos Wilsons. Por que você continua defendendo ela?" Sharon bateu com os pés. <br /> <br /> Ela olhou para Norah e insistiu: "E eu disse algo errado? Como essa mulher merece ser esposa de Derek? Se não fosse pela insistência sua e do seu marido para que ela se casasse com Derek, eu nunca teria aceitado essa mulher. Além disso, ela vive às custas da fortuna da família Carter desde o casamento. É claro que ela deveria tratar Derek e nós com respeito."<br /> <br /> Ela prosseguiu: "Por que você faz parecer que ela fez algo extraordinário? Além disso, ela não engravidou nos dois anos desde que se juntou à nossa família. Você quer ter bisnetos, não quer? Eu aposto que Derek se divorciou dela por isso."<br /> <br /> A expressão de Juliana se tornou severa. "Sharon, cuidado com as palavras. Como você pode dizer isso?"<br /> <br /> Surpresa com a expressão séria de Juliana, Sharon respondeu: "Estou apenas apontando fatos. Felizmente, ela não engravidou, pois isso poderia ter complicado o divórcio. Qualquer filho dela seria igualmente indesejável."<br /> <br /> Juliana, visivelmente perturbada pelas palavras de Sharon, segurou a mão de Norah para confortá-la e aconselhou: "Ignore ela, Norah. Ela é grosseira e mal-educada. Por favor, não tome decisões precipitadas sobre o divórcio. Enquanto eu estiver viva, só reconhecerei você como a esposa de Derek. Meu marido e eu realmente gostamos de você. Não se preocupe com a reação de Derek. Se concentre em se entender com ele e construir uma vida juntos."<br /> <br /> Sharon, com os olhos cheios de irritação, perguntou: "Juliana, o que aconteceu com você? Por que você está sempre defendendo Norah? Norah, aceitar o fim do casamento com Derek seria melhor para todos."<br /> <br /> Norah levantou os olhos para Juliana, com lágrimas reluzindo neles. <br /> <br /> Juliana, mantendo a sua compostura, disse: "Chega, Sharon. Você não tem voz nenhuma no casamento de Derek. Fique fora disso. E eu quero ressaltar novamente o quanto eu gosto de Norah. Se quer ficar falando bobagens, é melhor sair da minha frente. Agora!"<br /> <br /> Com isso, o rosto de Sharon se tingiu de vermelho, cheio de raiva e constrangimento, enquanto seus lábios se fechavam com firmeza, contendo qualquer objeção adicional. <br /> <br /> Juliana então se voltou para Norah com atenção, perguntando: "E você, o que pensa, Norah?"<br /> <br /> Norah encontrou o olhar de Juliana, com lágrimas deslizando pelo seu rosto enquanto ela lutava para falar. "Eu... agradeço muito, Juliana. Mas, hoje vi o que Madeline e Derek fizeram pelas minhas costas... Além disso, a indiferença de Derek comigo me mostrou que eu não tenho razão alguma para continuar nesse casamento."<br /> <br /> O semblante de Juliana empalideceu, sua expressão carregada de preocupação quando ela disse: "A culpa é de Derek."<br /> <br /> Juliana segurou as mãos de Norah com firmeza, oferecendo consolo: "Você sofreu muito nesses últimos dois anos."<br /> <br /> Norah permaneceu calada, e um breve momento de silêncio preencheu a sala. <br /> <br /> No instante seguinte, a voz estridente de Sharon rompeu o silêncio. "Madeline? Ela está de volta? Juliana, eu estou saindo agora. Tenho que fazer aquela mulher pagar."<br /> <br /> Sharon pegou sua bolsa às pressas e saiu da sala. <br /> <br /> Norah enxugou as lágrimas e sorriu, se sentindo aliviada. "Eu estou bem. Sério."<br /> <br /> Com o coração cheio de pesar, Juliana respondeu: "Bem, eu não vou insistir mais. Norah, por favor, venha me visitar sempre que puder. Sua companhia por si só é tudo para mim."<br /> <br /> Lágrimas se acumularam nos olhos de Juliana enquanto ela falava. Ela realmente apreciava Norah, reconhecendo sua importância na recuperação de Derek do coma. <br /> <br /> Norah, com doçura, enxugou as lágrimas de Juliana, reconhecendo a genuína gentileza oferecida. "Claro que irei. Bem, vou me despedir agora. Por favor, peça à empregada que prepare aquela sopa para você."<br /> <br /> Com isso, Norah partiu sem olhar para trás, despercebendo a determinação nos olhos de Juliana. <br /> <br /> Juliana, enxugando seus olhos, instruiu o mordomo: "Prepare para que Derek e os demais retornem para a Mansão Carter amanhã ao meio-dia."<br /> <br /> O mordomo assentiu: "Entendido."<br /> <br /> Ao deixar a Mansão Carter, Norah foi abordada pelo motorista da família. "Senhora, para onde devo levá-la?"<br /> <br /> Os modos do motorista se mantiveram respeitosos, embora agora Norah já não fosse mais considerada a esposa de Derek. <br /> <br /> Com o documento do divórcio assinado, Norah sabia que ela havia cortado os laços com a família Carter. Olhando para o seu celular, percebeu que tinha uma nova mensagem. <br /> <br /> Era de sua amiga, Joanna Andrews. <br /> <br /> "Norah, você está livre esta noite para ir ao Clube Glamour comigo? Eu ouvi dizer que Madeline voltou e Derek está dando uma festa de boas-vindas para ela. Vai ser um evento incrível. Vamos fazer nossa presença ser notada."<br /> <br /> A resposta de Norah foi breve. "Pode contar comigo."<br /> <br /> A resposta de Joanna era apenas um ponto de interrogação, porque a rápida concordância de Norah a surpreendeu. <br /> <br /> Norah explicou: "Estou oficialmente divorciada. Então, estou sozinha a partir de agora."<br /> <br /> Houve um breve silêncio na conversa, seguido por uma resposta entusiasmada e repleta de pontos de exclamação de Joanna. "Norah, onde você está agora? Vou te buscar imediatamente! Me dê dez segundos e eu estarei aí!"<br /> <br /> Se divertindo com o entusiasmo de Joanna, Norah enviou a ela a localização do Edifício Esplendor e instruiu o motorista: "Por favor, leve-me ao Edifício Esplendor."<br /> <br /> O Edifício Esplendor era conhecido em Glophia por ser um centro de luxo, apresentando marcas de renome internacional. <br /> <br /> Ao chegar lá, Norah foi calorosamente recebida. "Noelle, que prazer te ver. Veio aqui para entregar os esboços do projeto?"<br /> <br /> O luxuoso camarim estava repleto de vestidos deslumbrantes, cada um adornado com diamantes cintilantes. <br /> <br /> O estilista de alta-costura proveniente de Asodence, Aaron Harvey, aproximou-se teatralmente de Norah, segurou-a pelo braço e disse: "É uma pena ver você assim. Por que esconder esse rosto lindo? Você é como uma flor exótica, pronta para desabrochar."<br /> <br /> Norah piscou e concordou: "Você está certo, Aaron. Pode me ajudar com uma transformação?"<br /> <br /> Esperando uma resposta negativa de Norah, Aaron estava prestes a continuar a persuasão, mas, de repente, congelou diante da rápida concordância dela. "Espere aí. Você... Noelle, você está realmente querendo uma transformação? Meu Deus! Me procurar foi a melhor escolha que já fez!"<br /> <br /> Deixando de lado os rascunhos de design, Aaron conduziu Norah até a cadeira de maquiagem, dizendo: "Fique aqui. Garanto que você se transformará numa mulher deslumbrante quando eu deixar a sua beleza natural e o seu charme irresistível realizarem a mágica deles."<br /> <br /> Aaron olhou para a roupa simples e o cabelo despenteado que Norah tinha e começou ansiosamente a fazer a transformação dela com um pincel de maquiagem na mão. <br /> <br /> Quando Joanna chegou, Norah ainda estava sendo maquiada. <br /> <br /> Joanna já conhecia Aaron. Depois de cumprimentá-lo, ela se acomodou na cadeira de maquiagem próxima e disse: "Parabéns, Norah, pelo seu retorno oficial ao seu eu livre e desimpedido. Sua companheira leal, Joanna, está pronta e ansiosa para seguir o seu exemplo."<br /> <br /> <br /> Capítulo4 Clube Glamour<br /> <br /> Norah emitiu um sorriso. "Você realmente sabe escolher suas palavras, Joanna."<br /> <br /> Curiosa, Joanna perguntou: "Ei, você não se apaixonou por Derek? O que te fez acordar e deixar de estar apaixonada por ele?"<br /> <br /> A voz de Norah soou fria quando ela respondeu: "Eu flagrei Madeline e Derek passando um momento íntimo juntos..."<br /> <br /> Joanna não conseguiu segurar o riso. "Madeline está tão carente de atenção? Ela mal chegou e já está nos braços do marido de outra pessoa. Isso me faz questionar como era a vida dela no exterior. Mas, devo admitir que você e Derek pareciam loucos de amor. Ele estava encantado com seu primeiro amor, e você era dedicada a ele, que não te retribuiu. O amor realmente cega as pessoas?"<br /> <br /> Enquanto Joanna falava, os pensamentos de Norah vagavam. Hoje foi a primeira vez que ela tinha visto Madeline. <br /> <br /> Norah só tinha ouvido falar dela por meio de Derek e dos funcionários da casa, que a descreviam como gentil, empática, educada e descontraída, o que provavelmente era o tipo de mulher que atraía Derek. <br /> <br /> Norah sempre se esforçou para agradar Derek, adotando as supostas características de Madeline e até tentando se parecer com ela para chamar a atenção dele. <br /> <br /> Mas ser uma substituta nunca foi o suficiente. Além disso, Madeline não era como Norah imaginava. <br /> <br /> Com pouco entusiasmo, Norah respondeu: "Você entenderia se já tivesse sentido o amor te machucar."<br /> <br /> A testa de Joanna se enrugou. "Norah, eu não quero me perder com um amor. Eu prefiro estar alerta e ao seu lado. Desde que você se juntou à família Carter, nós mal nos vemos."<br /> <br /> Depois do casamento, Norah se dedicou a Derek e à família Carter, deixando sua vida anterior e suas amizades para trás. <br /> <br /> "Norah, agora que você está divorciada, vai participar da corrida na Montanha Krusa daqui a cinco dias?"<br /> <br /> "Não", Norah recusou firmemente: "Eu não corro há dois anos. Estou fora de forma."<br /> <br /> Joanna não parecia estar convencida. "Fora de forma? Tente dar uma desculpa melhor da próxima vez. Me diga, Norah, você ainda tem esperanças de voltar com Derek?"<br /> <br /> Joanna estava prestes a falar mal de Derek, mas mudou de assunto. "Você se lembra daquela corrida há três anos? Nocturne era o único que conseguia te acompanhar. Desde que você parou, ele ganhou o primeiro lugar na Corrida de Montanha Krusa nos últimos dois anos. Ele deve competir de novo esse ano. Você não quer ir ver ele?"<br /> <br /> A Corrida de Montanha Krusa era um evento emocionante e clandestino, onde a elite jovem e rica de Glophia se reunia para apreciar corridas de carros modificados. Este evento ficou famoso por suas corridas emocionantes e atraía uma audiência apaixonada por esportes radicais. <br /> <br /> Para preservar o anonimato dos participantes, os organizadores forneciam máscaras a cada piloto e eles adotavam codinomes durante a competição. <br /> <br /> Um aspecto especial da corrida era que o vencedor tinha o direito de pedir que os pilotos derrotados retirassem suas máscaras. <br /> <br /> Norah se lembrou da emocionante corrida de três anos atrás, na qual Nocturne quase conquistou o primeiro lugar, perdendo por apenas três segundos. <br /> <br /> Uma faísca de empolgação iluminou seus olhos quando ela comentou: "Bem, acho que não custa nada dar uma olhadinha nele."<br /> <br /> A menção ao "divórcio" despertou o interesse de Aaron. Ele perguntou: "Você está divorciada, Noelle? Esse sujeito realmente não sabe o que perdeu. Aposto que vai se arrepender de ter deixado uma pessoa tão especial como você. De qualquer jeito, sobre esses esboços de design..."<br /> <br /> Joanna desviou sua atenção para Aaron, perguntando: "Norah, você ainda está trabalhando nos designs para a BelleVogue? Não é surpresa que algumas das linhas de luxo deles se pareçam com as suas criações."<br /> <br /> Aaron sorriu com orgulho, afirmando: "Noelle é uma estilista renomada reconhecida pela Associação de Alta Moda. Os designs dela são conhecidos mundialmente e alcançam preços exorbitantes. Felizmente, por estar próximo de Noelle, eu fui um dos poucos a ter acesso a algumas de suas criações nos últimos dois anos."<br /> <br /> Joanna revirou os olhos e comentou: "Isso tudo por causa do talento de Norah. O que isso tem a ver com você, afinal de contas? Vamos lá, agilize. Eu preciso estar deslumbrante esta noite, assim como Norah."<br /> <br /> "Tudo bem, tudo bem. Apenas relaxem, e eu vou garantir que vocês duas estejam fabulosas."<br /> <br /> Uma hora depois, elas entraram no Clube Glamour. <br /> <br /> Na pista de dança, luzes brilhantes giravam e preenchiam o ambiente com vida. A música pulsava com energia enquanto as pessoas se moviam, seus rostos irradiando felicidade em meio ao aroma de bebida que pairava no ar. <br /> <br /> No segundo andar, Norah descansava sozinha num sofá, tomando sua bebida, enquanto atraía olhares curiosos. Ela estava vestindo um minivestido prateado sem alças, e seus cachos castanhos caíam suavemente por suas costas. A elegante curva de seu pescoço brilhava sob a luz enquanto ela saboreava sua bebida. <br /> <br /> "Essa é minha Norah!", exclamou Joanna, se sentando em frente a ela. "Você mal se encontrou comigo nos últimos dois anos, sempre vestida com aqueles trajes formais na casa dos Carters. Você não se sentia sufocada? É tão bom ver você de volta ao seu ambiente. Isso me deixa muito feliz."<br /> <br /> Norah tomou um gole de sua bebida em silêncio, sem dizer uma palavra. <br /> <br /> Enquanto o líquido quente deslizava por sua garganta, seu corpo se aquecia gradualmente. <br /> <br /> No início, apesar de ter se integrado na família Carter e cuidado de Derek diariamente, ela ainda apreciava se vestir elegantemente e usar maquiagem. No entanto, Sharon e a irmã de Derek, Kathy, frequentemente a criticavam por seu estilo chamativo. Elas alegavam que, com Derek inconsciente, ela não deveria se vestir de maneira tão extravagante. <br /> <br /> No final, Norah parou de se preocupar com seu visual para se dedicar inteiramente aos cuidados de Derek, se tornando totalmente a sua cuidadora. <br /> <br /> Mas aqueles tempos tinham ficado no passado. Agora, livre da família Carter, Norah podia se vestir como desejava, sem se importar com as críticas. <br /> <br /> Joanna olhou para o celular e depois ergueu os olhos. "Norah, você tem algum plano para estragar a festa de boas-vindas que Derek está preparando para aquela mulherzinha mais tarde? Quer que eu traga algumas pessoas para causar um alvoroço?"<br /> <br /> Norah fixava os olhos no líquido dourado que girava em seu copo enquanto o movia delicadamente. "Nós não viemos ao Clube Glamour à toa, não é verdade? Então, quem é essa pessoa que você quer que eu conheça?"<br /> <br /> Joanna pareceu surpresa por um momento e em seguida esboçou um sorriso astuto. "Norah, o que quer dizer com isso? Estamos aqui apenas para agitar as coisas!"<br /> <br /> "O Clube Glamour pertence à família Morris. Prefiro não perturbá-los ou irritá-los", disse Norah tranquilamente. "Eu sei que essa festa do Derek é apenas uma distração. Então, pode contar comigo. Quem está tentando me encontrar por meio dos seus arranjos?"<br /> <br /> A conversa delas foi interrompida por um telefonema. Joanna atendeu rapidamente, seu semblante mudando com a chamada. Indicando que precisava se afastar, ela sussurrou: "Eu tenho que atender. Volto logo."<br /> <br /> Norah percebeu a preocupação no rosto de Joanna e entendeu que a amiga tinha algo urgente para resolver, então concordou com a cabeça e colocou o copo na mesa, fazendo um leve barulho. <br /> <br /> Independentemente dos planos que Joanna estava tramando, Norah confiava plenamente que ela não a trairia. <br /> <br /> "Ei, linda, está sozinha? Se importa se eu me juntar a você para tomar uma bebida?"<br /> <br /> ...<br /> &3&	LEARN_MORE	https://fbweb.lera.mobi/11659409-fb_contact-pta125	159129143942156	Hello reading	https://facebook.com/61552535188096	36,304	2	1,534,417,267,421,136	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Hello reading	120211361101900729	fbweb.lera.mobi	NONE	image		https://fbweb.lera.mobi/11659409-fb_contact-pta125_6-0410-core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=124213&accid=832388428540649	2024-04-30 00:51	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439907717_1232924294336617_535331082877905523_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=vJTAOd30CwoQ7kNvgG0hl_U&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfC6S_UwG_N_Xa0VtR3oyiUkUJ5rxF3kFRHzZEdYGuH91w&oe=663A8B89	person_profile	Lera	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440068972_808260428023828_7577854740794090736_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=7R4iQ70Ai1kQ7kNvgFu2xNn&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfDRPymLWNtI2op-OORUAUkmjsxbIZglWR7UPhvQgg7iaw&oe=663A80AD	3	Hello reading	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,652,480	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1649974}'	No	2024-05-03 04:08	active	680	1160098805166618	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	103067905825537	Love Story Now	https://facebook.com/100083950326074	24,984	1	764,956,652,369,307	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Love Story Now	120210937671270002	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=295122&accid=1241755293469911	2024-04-30 22:09	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438102415_1594873818021616_2204317341735874935_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=yEN0aGUNRuoQ7kNvgH_8e6m&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfDZZAuQXgyV4ItjoFEcoJQaoK5XlTXnvbM8nBjK9Eajyg&oe=663A60D6	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439251035_2676893569152208_8319453522061050245_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qNnJvmAHQzUQ7kNvgHKC7pq&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfBmBakDKxR24WqsikU9HRpMaefJILHwewVdCa18ih5v3Q&oe=663A8D6B	3	Love Story Now	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,652,535	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1652548}'	No	2024-05-03 04:08	active	680	1411889693028357	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	11,376	2	7,561,707,223,891,851	2024-05-01 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Funread	120208161806940660	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1910509592737470	2024-04-25 03:48	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440336279_395201643494393_1316403688916171185_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=G1Vt3mzMbg4Q7kNvgHgRnN2&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfDcLf8wKlImooD21wifu7gJP_nlOO5LfanR0FdJmO0keg&oe=663A5DD6	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-hou1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440168405_950389953481373_8256997242707810996_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=2WY8h5iOZ9sQ7kNvgGYFGbt&_nc_ht=scontent-hou1-1.xx&oh=00_AfA8l6oQJfC2LZ4_R--EL8hPcJ_SPqZK4qu_UJ7LhcwBtQ&oe=663A6A1B	3	Funread	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,654,349	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-03 04:10	active	680	1111902883452716		„The accompanying video for “What We Call Love” by @joanna_gemma_auguri is a visual feast, bathed in hues of pink and violet, with soft lighting that envelops the viewer like a cocoon of roses. As two lovers dance within this dreamy landscape, their silhouettes cast soft, intertwining shadows on the wall, embodying the song’s essence of fleeting beauty and the transient nature of love.<br /> <br /> Watch the video for “What We Call Love,” directed by Mona Najma, and featuring Emily Howard and Chigdem Karadogan“<br /> @postpunkonline <br /> <br /> Director, Art Director, Editor: @monanajma <br /> Featuring @lezzahosen and @tt.twisler <br /> Production House: Wendyvision London @wndyvsn <br /> <br /> With very special thanks to Sweatmother, Goetz and Siri<br /> <br /> YouTube link in bio 🥀<br /> <br /> Management @morinmorinmorin <br /> Label @duchessbox <br /> Published by @motorentertainment <br /> <br /> Supported by @initiativemusik with project funds from the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media<br /> <br /> #videorelease #musicvideo #chamberpop #lovesong #timelessmusic #dancers #feminine #queer #avantgarde #elegance #folknoir #cinematography #portishead #joannagemmaauguri #newalbum	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/joanna_gemma_auguri	1410354502541203	Joanna Gemma Auguri	https://facebook.com/joannagemmaauguri	2,693	1	755,427,423,438,818	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	1	Visit Instagram profile	Joanna Gemma Auguri	120207074981420009	instagram.com	NONE	video		http://instagram.com/joanna_gemma_auguri	2024-04-30 11:30	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438092885_3627642374153920_5273700590170711327_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-bjX65xAsQcQ7kNvgENy5CF&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBhViDokI63yXkeUeuSfoidz7PJhKf8IWmRa9Gptwl0Ew&oe=663A6706	person_profile	𝖩𝖮𝖠𝖭𝖭𝖠 𝖦𝖤𝖬𝖬𝖠 𝖠𝖴𝖦𝖴𝖱𝖨	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438099143_477266788299611_9125704588997717507_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=_Ynm1zmq9x4Q7kNvgHyyAKt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBF-FcFAKcQPejm5uibBDYN_WW6U4AyQ23KVOCiJ76xGg&oe=663A6AFB	3	Joanna Gemma Auguri	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,652,683	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1652548}'	No	2024-05-03 04:08	active	680	7593786097381256	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	11,376	1	698,674,395,621,107	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Learn more	Funread	120208161566770660	fbweb.moboreader.net	NONE	video		https://fbweb.moboreader.net/51691322-FB_CONTACT-ENA125-Core1.html?adid={{ad.id}}&char=216543&accid=1910509592737470	2024-04-25 03:43	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438778254_352073544532099_7079587493549320832_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=H8blt4mvg_cQ7kNvgH_9NeK&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBDEWuTeesLI5UWHPDTe5aTgjoHM_EJoH_Qj-857GWH9g&oe=663A6BC4	person_profile	moboreader	https://scontent-lga3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438814980_1103486280909646_8018901117350939381_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=IfxQSSdh99IQ7kNvgEJ1zHL&_nc_ht=scontent-lga3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBstWGPuOCVXvGef5q4yMsacR9Vcsk17cn-4WHwCjTjYw&oe=663A91FB	3	Funread	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,652,785	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653030}'	No	2024-05-03 04:08	active	680	459850796607509	Fixer Upper’s Dark Downers: The Hidden Secrets Behind the Hit TV Show	This raises questions about the ethics and responsibilities of reality TV production	LEARN_MORE	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-e	113232131368916	Cas Reading	https://facebook.com/100083632710957	44	1	1,160,870,041,596,922	2024-05-01 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Cas Reading	120209303961710577	parentztalk.com	NONE	image	HGTV’s Fixer Upper is one of the most popular real estate reality TV shows of all time. Chip and Joanna Gaines have become super famous thanks to their roles presenting the super popular show, and celebs in their own right.But when their marriage began to unfold, the truth about the dark secrets b...	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-eb/	2024-04-30 15:56	https://scontent.ftpa1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440064200_1223476045539948_5764551069754320963_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=gWmx4vpT7iIQ7kNvgFq1HVe&_nc_ht=scontent.ftpa1-1.fna&oh=00_AfDAnmHbeQVND2-qs9CuHh4a9_3megAGnAvF4NBxIc5Ryw&oe=663A7D8C	person_profile	Cas Reading	https://scontent.ftpa1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440102901_464708065987362_3923917539966682235_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=MRAOi1_HpO8Q7kNvgEnPC9I&_nc_ht=scontent.ftpa1-1.fna&oh=00_AfAQk0d2ml3-WjTUQ3yy5dYFtiFsj6eZ1cyEUo3bj_OB7Q&oe=663A853C	3	Cas Reading	2024-05-01 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,652,893	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653030}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	1118732986028398	Fixer Upper’s Dark Downers: The Hidden Secrets Behind the Hit TV Show	This raises questions about the ethics and responsibilities of reality TV production	LEARN_MORE	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-e	113232131368916	Cas Reading	https://facebook.com/100083632710957	44	1	1,674,617,776,643,633	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Cas Reading	120209303961390577	parentztalk.com	NONE	image	HGTV’s Fixer Upper is one of the most popular real estate reality TV shows of all time. Chip and Joanna Gaines have become super famous thanks to their roles presenting the super popular show, and celebs in their own right.But when their marriage began to unfold, the truth about the dark secrets b...	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-eb/	2024-04-30 15:56	https://scontent.ftpa1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440982393_985617639943564_8386000685376346321_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VKHC1Qubij0Q7kNvgHV55Dy&_nc_ht=scontent.ftpa1-1.fna&oh=00_AfC6Ze6Cg5wvY_lqHCxk-C0sMX4wMRq0IyrgOydhKiSRFw&oe=663A746B	person_profile	Cas Reading	https://scontent.ftpa1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441054700_901206708477535_2881131429167866674_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=RExL66k2wW4Q7kNvgHZIrWy&_nc_ht=scontent.ftpa1-1.fna&oh=00_AfCDRHjTmzbz1bs_FAmj5Ywx1JHwRFTgHfcoeoaFrNCp_g&oe=663A8E2F	3	Cas Reading	2024-05-01 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,652,914	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653030}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	1155551712135645	Fixer Upper’s Dark Downers: The Hidden Secrets Behind the Hit TV Show	This raises questions about the ethics and responsibilities of reality TV production	LEARN_MORE	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-e	113232131368916	Cas Reading	https://facebook.com/100083632710957	44	1	310,344,355,421,776	2024-05-01 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Cas Reading	120209303943860577	parentztalk.com	NONE	image	HGTV’s Fixer Upper is one of the most popular real estate reality TV shows of all time. Chip and Joanna Gaines have become super famous thanks to their roles presenting the super popular show, and celebs in their own right.But when their marriage began to unfold, the truth about the dark secrets b...	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-eb/	2024-04-30 15:56	https://scontent.ftpa1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438829969_937059694868636_2524793856190522522_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=e4T5BlDwog8Q7kNvgFyQ0gT&_nc_ht=scontent.ftpa1-2.fna&oh=00_AfDx7wQmMTEfr_Px6ck0GNz42gTJdGi6gaXTVcws0_Xsrw&oe=663A622F	person_profile	Cas Reading	https://scontent.ftpa1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438837500_799656265421330_4924843938110922739_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=iDGnYlmP70QQ7kNvgEfUApv&_nc_ht=scontent.ftpa1-2.fna&oh=00_AfCDDTm0q3xHBcwkaj5P65Ul5fbTy7GoClz3V5W7HZll8g&oe=663A6B3F	3	Cas Reading	2024-05-01 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,654,430	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1654391}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:10	active	680	1014186830181987	Kilby Block Party	May 10-12, 2024	LEARN_MORE	http://kilbyblockparty.com/	109705778305621	Kilby Block Party	https://facebook.com/KilbyBlockPartySLC	2,192	0	8,155,332,134,496,040	2024-05-03 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn More	Kilby Block Party	6552330024489	kilbyblockparty.com	NONE	carousel	May 10-12, 2024	http://kilbyblockparty.com/	2024-04-30 11:19	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/439928185_1125607302012697_7106383179048478101_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VckKj5v50DsQ7kNvgG32IBH&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBiDhG_MxVhh_Z6vEcSp8UEX_g57t6Aq587DRojJ-6aqA&oe=663A6C49	person_profile	Kilby Block Party	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440387494_968285871165595_1783399493102577182_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=qroB6FE4CmkQ7kNvgFyG86h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBDR4lwA5mcyBoDbZsW7zaQrWgI-iJ7NjWQkvQTHtpLeA&oe=663A914B	3	Kilby Block Party	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,652,964	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653030}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	1419332332060568	Fixer Upper’s Dark Downers: The Hidden Secrets Behind the Hit TV Show	This raises questions about the ethics and responsibilities of reality TV production	LEARN_MORE	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-e	113232131368916	Cas Reading	https://facebook.com/100083632710957	44	1	1,406,113,966,757,563	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Learn more	Cas Reading	120209303898790577	parentztalk.com	NONE	image	HGTV’s Fixer Upper is one of the most popular real estate reality TV shows of all time. Chip and Joanna Gaines have become super famous thanks to their roles presenting the super popular show, and celebs in their own right.But when their marriage began to unfold, the truth about the dark secrets b...	https://parentztalk.com/fixer-upper-dark-downers-eb/	2024-04-30 15:56	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440594427_7853993957958751_4238565296561537970_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CUo1PAhkPtYQ7kNvgHs1oMX&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDARGyzJ6mkFcf0BJzsQUR8EF_qs2EQvNniLMwQ7lEpgA&oe=663A8056	person_profile	Cas Reading	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440576382_2327674020762122_7951905695712612810_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6isVd5fePvgQ7kNvgHN-PHP&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCaDsIke1cF6NLlvZUUotJNrldArbK9mqtokNLRRc21Bw&oe=663A90D6	3	Cas Reading	2024-05-01 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,653,134	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1650603}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	3650236125214715		Are you facing the challenging decision of selling your elderly parents’ home as they transition to a retirement home? As a LOCAL REAL ESTATE EXPERT experienced in helping families navigate this transition with compassion and expertise, I’m here to support you every step of the way! From maximizing the value of their home to handling all the details, trust me to make this process as seamless as possible. Let’s discuss your options today. 🏡💼 PLEASE CALL/TEXT ME 👉📱 860-597-8480 or DM me. #ElderlyTransition #RetirementHome #RealEstateExpert #CompassionateService #SeniorLiving #FamilyFirst #ctrealtor #ctrealestateagent #williamraveisavon #williamraveis #farmingtonvalleyct #burlingtonct #avonctrealestate #avonct	MESSAGE_PAGE		103898028243654	JoannaLutrzyk_Real Estate Agent	https://facebook.com/JoannaLutrzyk	242	1	312,792,858,511,853	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Send message	JoannaLutrzyk_Real Estate Agent	120210541295590651		NONE	image			2024-04-30 20:29	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440424259_2182905945391460_2380561961638124434_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=rdWtDsPhfpIQ7kNvgGyleud&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDvChxbisCupg2FqrTaaOwKrkxSKBSp-2rOOcEbtjYvOA&oe=663A896F	person_profile	CT Realtor Joanna Lutrzykowski	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441199977_7461947870562728_5568743533697710066_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=siH6ILsfeaQQ7kNvgENu_Gj&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBQzBmXla2JOL3DTlKSjlyuGfrsZSrLZkuZNupQf4SoTg&oe=663A9018	3	JoannaLutrzyk_Real Estate Agent	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,654,543	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1654520}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:10	active	680	669642925273970	Read More Exciting Content👉	New York, Howard Family.<br /> A woman with long hair hanging loose looks coldly at the documents in front of her.<br /> <br /> The words "divorce agreement" are clearly written on them!<br /> <br /> "The young master said he won't shortchange you on the compensation he should give you."<br /> <br /> The man standing in front of Joanna Flores explains to the woman without any humility.<br /> <br /> Joanna picks up the documents and scans them, then says, "Palazzo di Mare, Villa degli Ulivi, Mansion on the Hill, Chateau du Lac, these properties are not included in the division for me?"<br /> <br /> The man blinked, seemingly surprised that Joanna Flores is so familiar with Theodore Howard's assets.<br /> <br /> He thought that when the young master asked for a divorce, Joanna would definitely make a scene, but she only wanted to calculate the joint assets of the couple.<br /> <br /> "Um... maybe the lawyers overlooked these properties when counting them."<br /> <br /> "Then reorganize and present me with the revised divorce agreement after dividing the assets." Joanna calmly reminds the man.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'll call the young master right away."<br /> <br /> After the man leaves, Joanna's previous calm and indifference disappear, and she collapses weakly on the sofa behind her.<br /> <br /> She rubs her nose and recalls the seven years of marriage, feeling incredibly ridiculous.<br /> <br /> She has been secretly married to New York's pride, Theodore Howard, for seven years, without even seeing her own husband's face.<br /> <br /> Mr. Howard senior passed away suddenly a week ago, and Theodore couldn't wait to divorce her.<br /> <br /> On the day of the funeral, Theodore went back to his country, and Joanna thought she would finally meet her husband, but Theodore only came back for the funeral before leaving for a business trip.<br /> <br /> Joanna sighs at the man's cold and heartless behavior.<br /> <br /> A man who can't even stay at his own grandfather's funeral for more than ten seconds, with money as his only concern, is definitely a ruthless and heartless man.<br /> <br /> If it weren't for Mr. Flores senior owing a debt to the Howard Family patriarch, who demanded Joanna to marry his grandson, Joanna would never have agreed to marry Theodore.<br /> <br /> A nobody in her eyes, she had secretly married him for seven years.<br /> <br /> "Lareina, I'm getting a divorce from Theodore."<br /> <br /> Joanna shook her head and picked up her phone to call Lareina Collins.<br /> <br /> Lareina sighed and asked, "Have you finally come to your senses? Not planning on living as a widow anymore?"<br /> <br /> "I'm currently dividing Theodore's assets. Once I have them, our pharmaceutical company can expand its operations."<br /> <br /> "Make sure you don't go easy on him. What's yours is yours, not a penny less."<br /> <br /> "Of course, I've roughly calculated that I can get at least several billion."<br /> <br /> After all, the Howard Family was the richest family in New York, with their business spanning globally. The description of being as wealthy as a country was not an exaggeration for the Howard Family.<br /> <br /> "Are you still going to the boxing match tonight?"<br /> <br /> Lareina asked, rubbing her chin.<br /> <br /> "I attend the boxing match every year. I heard there's a new Brazilian fighter this year, and I'm eager to meet him."<br /> <br /> "I'll wait for you at the gate of your villa at eleven tonight."<br /> <br /> "Okay."<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, in the office of the President of Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> In the spacious and simple office, a man in a black Italian handmade suit quietly listened to his subordinate's report.<br /> <br /> "She has no objections to the divorce? No arguments or fights?"<br /> <br /> Theodore raised his chin, his eyes coldly staring at the man.<br /> <br /> "Yes... that's correct."<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores seems to only care about dividing your assets."<br /> <br /> As for the divorce, she didn't seem sad at all.<br /> <br /> What a strange woman.<br /> <br /> Theodore coldly said, "Then redraft the divorce agreement. Give her what she's entitled to, but also warn her not to appear in front of me again."<br /> <br /> He didn't want to be bothered by her.<br /> <br /> "Also, have they found a new fighter for the boxing match tonight on Theisen's side?"<br /> <br /> Theodore adjusted his collar, his gaze sharp.<br /> <br /> Patrick hurriedly explained, "Theisen has called and said the Brazilian fighter is very strong, and this time we're sure to win."<br /> <br /> Theodore propped his chin with one hand, his tone icy, "I've placed a ten billion bet with Aldrich this time. We can't let their side win."<br /> <br /> "Theisen is very confident, but... it seems there might be another competitor this time."<br /> <br /> "Which club is he from?"<br /> <br /> "Not a club, he's a boxing champion."<br /> <br /> "Boxing champion Butterfly?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, she had a big reputation before, always wearing a helmet when she appeared, reigning champion for several years with no opponents."<br /> <br /> "Interesting."<br /> <br /> Theodore was also a boxing enthusiast, and now that he heard that the boxing champion Butterfly would also be participating in this bet, he put down his hand and stood up, saying, "Then let's welcome the boxing champion properly, it's time for a new title holder."<br /> <br /> "After the match, bring her to see me."<br /> <br /> "Yes."<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> At two-thirty in the afternoon, the butler knocked on Joanna's door.<br /> <br /> Joanna was playing team matches with her team when she heard the butler calling her, so she immediately clicked on auto-play, got up, and opened the door.<br /> <br /> "What's the matter?"<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores, the young master has an important document that needs to be delivered to him. Can you help deliver it to him?"<br /> <br /> The butler handed a document to Joanna.<br /> <br /> Joanna raised an eyebrow and asked, "He has never lived here, how did an important document end up here?"<br /> <br /> The butler calmly explained, "This document was just sent from overseas to here, it should be the address filled in by the old master when he was alive, so..."<br /> <br /> "It's very important, so I hope Mrs. Flores..."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized the importance of the document.<br /> <br /> Joanna happened to be hungry, and seeing the butler's expectant expression, she took the document, walked past the butler, and left.<br /> <br /> "Make sure to deliver it to the young master, it's very important."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized once again as Joanna walked away.<br /> <br /> As Joanna walked away, the butler breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> Hopefully, after the young master sees Mrs. Flores' beauty, he will change his mind about the divorce!<br /> <br /> Twenty-five minutes later, Joanna parked her motorcycle in the parking lot next to Howard Corporation. After taking off her helmet and quickly tidying her hair, she held the document and walked directly towards Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> Married to Theodore for seven years, Joanna had never been to Howard Corporation before, so today was her first time.<br /> <br /> She entered the lobby and walked straight to the elevator, pressing the button for the CEO's office floor.<br /> <br /> When she arrived on the 22nd floor, Joanna stepped out of the elevator and was about to walk towards Theodore's office when the elevator next to her opened, and Theodore, dressed in a black suit, stepped out.<br /> <br /> "I will contact President Scott later and discuss the plan with him in detail..."<br /> <br /> "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> Joanna saw the man's face, more handsome than in TV interviews, and couldn't help but call out his name.<br /> <br /> However, Theodore's attention was on the contract in his hand at the moment, and he didn't notice Joanna beside him.<br /> <br /> Joanna's beautiful face turned dark.<br /> <br /> She held the document in her hand, suppressed her temper, walked up, and patiently said, "The butler asked me to deliver this..."<br /> <br /> "Bring the documents and come with me to see President Scott," Theodore said, glancing at Joanna and assuming she was the assistant just brought in by the secretary. He spoke in a commanding tone towards Joanna.<br /> <br /> Seeing his unfamiliar expression towards her, Joanna's face instantly turned cold. Holding the documents in her hand, she coolly reminded Theodore, "President Howard, I am not your assistant. My name is Joanna Flores."<br /> <br /> Even if their marriage was forced and they had never met before, shouldn't he at least know his wife's name?<br /> <br /> "Are all the details clear? You will discuss the pros and cons of our project with President Scott later," Theodore completely ignored Joanna's earlier words and gave her orders.<br /> <br /> "I don't keep useless people around me. If you want to work at Howard Corporation, take it seriously," Theodore ordered Joanna in a cold tone before instructing her to follow him.<br /> <br /> Joanna restrained the urge to punch someone, her face turning red as she resisted the temptation to throw the documents in Theodore's face.<br /> <br /> Theodore was truly bullying her.<br /> <br /> How could he not even react to her name?	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.l	103664918974065	Novelnovel	https://facebook.com/100080677897601	451	1	25,444,580,231,822,200	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Install now	Novelnovel	120210073550790562	play.google.com	NONE	video		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lycan.novel	2024-04-30 04:31	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440960806_753913513230005_7382854933090663318_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=6skrzbrLNZIQ7kNvgGAEdEY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfCkXxcPCQZIoZS0AZjRdEBV1e99EL-COLnxLx3Qdg6Sxg&oe=663A662E	person_profile	Novelnovel	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440958146_962894712164601_8611291941507988982_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ywsUpRAX--EQ7kNvgGZBGN4&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfANeaeT6YjU7Jqs6VImn3INZ9qLINhzOA6I9pfMj8l9fA&oe=663A93DE	3	Novelnovel	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,654,551	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1654520}'	No	2024-05-03 04:10	active	680	938328801366185	Read More Exciting Content👉	New York, Howard Family.<br /> A woman with long hair hanging loose looks coldly at the documents in front of her.<br /> <br /> The words "divorce agreement" are clearly written on them!<br /> <br /> "The young master said he won't shortchange you on the compensation he should give you."<br /> <br /> The man standing in front of Joanna Flores explains to the woman without any humility.<br /> <br /> Joanna picks up the documents and scans them, then says, "Palazzo di Mare, Villa degli Ulivi, Mansion on the Hill, Chateau du Lac, these properties are not included in the division for me?"<br /> <br /> The man blinked, seemingly surprised that Joanna Flores is so familiar with Theodore Howard's assets.<br /> <br /> He thought that when the young master asked for a divorce, Joanna would definitely make a scene, but she only wanted to calculate the joint assets of the couple.<br /> <br /> "Um... maybe the lawyers overlooked these properties when counting them."<br /> <br /> "Then reorganize and present me with the revised divorce agreement after dividing the assets." Joanna calmly reminds the man.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'll call the young master right away."<br /> <br /> After the man leaves, Joanna's previous calm and indifference disappear, and she collapses weakly on the sofa behind her.<br /> <br /> She rubs her nose and recalls the seven years of marriage, feeling incredibly ridiculous.<br /> <br /> She has been secretly married to New York's pride, Theodore Howard, for seven years, without even seeing her own husband's face.<br /> <br /> Mr. Howard senior passed away suddenly a week ago, and Theodore couldn't wait to divorce her.<br /> <br /> On the day of the funeral, Theodore went back to his country, and Joanna thought she would finally meet her husband, but Theodore only came back for the funeral before leaving for a business trip.<br /> <br /> Joanna sighs at the man's cold and heartless behavior.<br /> <br /> A man who can't even stay at his own grandfather's funeral for more than ten seconds, with money as his only concern, is definitely a ruthless and heartless man.<br /> <br /> If it weren't for Mr. Flores senior owing a debt to the Howard Family patriarch, who demanded Joanna to marry his grandson, Joanna would never have agreed to marry Theodore.<br /> <br /> A nobody in her eyes, she had secretly married him for seven years.<br /> <br /> "Lareina, I'm getting a divorce from Theodore."<br /> <br /> Joanna shook her head and picked up her phone to call Lareina Collins.<br /> <br /> Lareina sighed and asked, "Have you finally come to your senses? Not planning on living as a widow anymore?"<br /> <br /> "I'm currently dividing Theodore's assets. Once I have them, our pharmaceutical company can expand its operations."<br /> <br /> "Make sure you don't go easy on him. What's yours is yours, not a penny less."<br /> <br /> "Of course, I've roughly calculated that I can get at least several billion."<br /> <br /> After all, the Howard Family was the richest family in New York, with their business spanning globally. The description of being as wealthy as a country was not an exaggeration for the Howard Family.<br /> <br /> "Are you still going to the boxing match tonight?"<br /> <br /> Lareina asked, rubbing her chin.<br /> <br /> "I attend the boxing match every year. I heard there's a new Brazilian fighter this year, and I'm eager to meet him."<br /> <br /> "I'll wait for you at the gate of your villa at eleven tonight."<br /> <br /> "Okay."<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, in the office of the President of Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> In the spacious and simple office, a man in a black Italian handmade suit quietly listened to his subordinate's report.<br /> <br /> "She has no objections to the divorce? No arguments or fights?"<br /> <br /> Theodore raised his chin, his eyes coldly staring at the man.<br /> <br /> "Yes... that's correct."<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores seems to only care about dividing your assets."<br /> <br /> As for the divorce, she didn't seem sad at all.<br /> <br /> What a strange woman.<br /> <br /> Theodore coldly said, "Then redraft the divorce agreement. Give her what she's entitled to, but also warn her not to appear in front of me again."<br /> <br /> He didn't want to be bothered by her.<br /> <br /> "Also, have they found a new fighter for the boxing match tonight on Theisen's side?"<br /> <br /> Theodore adjusted his collar, his gaze sharp.<br /> <br /> Patrick hurriedly explained, "Theisen has called and said the Brazilian fighter is very strong, and this time we're sure to win."<br /> <br /> Theodore propped his chin with one hand, his tone icy, "I've placed a ten billion bet with Aldrich this time. We can't let their side win."<br /> <br /> "Theisen is very confident, but... it seems there might be another competitor this time."<br /> <br /> "Which club is he from?"<br /> <br /> "Not a club, he's a boxing champion."<br /> <br /> "Boxing champion Butterfly?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, she had a big reputation before, always wearing a helmet when she appeared, reigning champion for several years with no opponents."<br /> <br /> "Interesting."<br /> <br /> Theodore was also a boxing enthusiast, and now that he heard that the boxing champion Butterfly would also be participating in this bet, he put down his hand and stood up, saying, "Then let's welcome the boxing champion properly, it's time for a new title holder."<br /> <br /> "After the match, bring her to see me."<br /> <br /> "Yes."<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> At two-thirty in the afternoon, the butler knocked on Joanna's door.<br /> <br /> Joanna was playing team matches with her team when she heard the butler calling her, so she immediately clicked on auto-play, got up, and opened the door.<br /> <br /> "What's the matter?"<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores, the young master has an important document that needs to be delivered to him. Can you help deliver it to him?"<br /> <br /> The butler handed a document to Joanna.<br /> <br /> Joanna raised an eyebrow and asked, "He has never lived here, how did an important document end up here?"<br /> <br /> The butler calmly explained, "This document was just sent from overseas to here, it should be the address filled in by the old master when he was alive, so..."<br /> <br /> "It's very important, so I hope Mrs. Flores..."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized the importance of the document.<br /> <br /> Joanna happened to be hungry, and seeing the butler's expectant expression, she took the document, walked past the butler, and left.<br /> <br /> "Make sure to deliver it to the young master, it's very important."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized once again as Joanna walked away.<br /> <br /> As Joanna walked away, the butler breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> Hopefully, after the young master sees Mrs. Flores' beauty, he will change his mind about the divorce!<br /> <br /> Twenty-five minutes later, Joanna parked her motorcycle in the parking lot next to Howard Corporation. After taking off her helmet and quickly tidying her hair, she held the document and walked directly towards Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> Married to Theodore for seven years, Joanna had never been to Howard Corporation before, so today was her first time.<br /> <br /> She entered the lobby and walked straight to the elevator, pressing the button for the CEO's office floor.<br /> <br /> When she arrived on the 22nd floor, Joanna stepped out of the elevator and was about to walk towards Theodore's office when the elevator next to her opened, and Theodore, dressed in a black suit, stepped out.<br /> <br /> "I will contact President Scott later and discuss the plan with him in detail..."<br /> <br /> "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> Joanna saw the man's face, more handsome than in TV interviews, and couldn't help but call out his name.<br /> <br /> However, Theodore's attention was on the contract in his hand at the moment, and he didn't notice Joanna beside him.<br /> <br /> Joanna's beautiful face turned dark.<br /> <br /> She held the document in her hand, suppressed her temper, walked up, and patiently said, "The butler asked me to deliver this..."<br /> <br /> "Bring the documents and come with me to see President Scott," Theodore said, glancing at Joanna and assuming she was the assistant just brought in by the secretary. He spoke in a commanding tone towards Joanna.<br /> <br /> Seeing his unfamiliar expression towards her, Joanna's face instantly turned cold. Holding the documents in her hand, she coolly reminded Theodore, "President Howard, I am not your assistant. My name is Joanna Flores."<br /> <br /> Even if their marriage was forced and they had never met before, shouldn't he at least know his wife's name?<br /> <br /> "Are all the details clear? You will discuss the pros and cons of our project with President Scott later," Theodore completely ignored Joanna's earlier words and gave her orders.<br /> <br /> "I don't keep useless people around me. If you want to work at Howard Corporation, take it seriously," Theodore ordered Joanna in a cold tone before instructing her to follow him.<br /> <br /> Joanna restrained the urge to punch someone, her face turning red as she resisted the temptation to throw the documents in Theodore's face.<br /> <br /> Theodore was truly bullying her.<br /> <br /> How could he not even react to her name?	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.l	103664918974065	Novelnovel	https://facebook.com/100080677897601	451	1	764,603,962,326,249	2024-05-01 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Install now	Novelnovel	120210073547080562	play.google.com	NONE	video		http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lycan.novel	2024-04-30 04:31	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438101234_985785123108510_2577156798736658617_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=S_mK0pGlor8Q7kNvgGcRavQ&_nc_oc=AdhjNvRJzWHVAJFiOvYtn48Xw2NUHFJiKbmFtxGvSZuYLf85vQ3QyWZZt571_w3m-bw&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBjCwzY0rF3EWe8Cb2l07YeKgsOKHN_zI1xpnoi3uCYpQ&oe=663A6776	person_profile	Novelnovel	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438094452_983954352592352_510540813652118475_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ifpKNfhgWiIQ7kNvgENvC0h&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCWL2BWLriHWuTHKjK9dk6-bDwq2wdQXZQoeSsEUnURow&oe=663A909F	3	Novelnovel	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,654,568	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1654520}'	No	2024-05-03 04:10	active	680	1131516294554748	Read More Exciting Content👉	New York, Howard Family.<br /> A woman with long hair hanging loose looks coldly at the documents in front of her.<br /> <br /> The words "divorce agreement" are clearly written on them!<br /> <br /> "The young master said he won't shortchange you on the compensation he should give you."<br /> <br /> The man standing in front of Joanna Flores explains to the woman without any humility.<br /> <br /> Joanna picks up the documents and scans them, then says, "Palazzo di Mare, Villa degli Ulivi, Mansion on the Hill, Chateau du Lac, these properties are not included in the division for me?"<br /> <br /> The man blinked, seemingly surprised that Joanna Flores is so familiar with Theodore Howard's assets.<br /> <br /> He thought that when the young master asked for a divorce, Joanna would definitely make a scene, but she only wanted to calculate the joint assets of the couple.<br /> <br /> "Um... maybe the lawyers overlooked these properties when counting them."<br /> <br /> "Then reorganize and present me with the revised divorce agreement after dividing the assets." Joanna calmly reminds the man.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'll call the young master right away."<br /> <br /> After the man leaves, Joanna's previous calm and indifference disappear, and she collapses weakly on the sofa behind her.<br /> <br /> She rubs her nose and recalls the seven years of marriage, feeling incredibly ridiculous.<br /> <br /> She has been secretly married to New York's pride, Theodore Howard, for seven years, without even seeing her own husband's face.<br /> <br /> Mr. Howard senior passed away suddenly a week ago, and Theodore couldn't wait to divorce her.<br /> <br /> On the day of the funeral, Theodore went back to his country, and Joanna thought she would finally meet her husband, but Theodore only came back for the funeral before leaving for a business trip.<br /> <br /> Joanna sighs at the man's cold and heartless behavior.<br /> <br /> A man who can't even stay at his own grandfather's funeral for more than ten seconds, with money as his only concern, is definitely a ruthless and heartless man.<br /> <br /> If it weren't for Mr. Flores senior owing a debt to the Howard Family patriarch, who demanded Joanna to marry his grandson, Joanna would never have agreed to marry Theodore.<br /> <br /> A nobody in her eyes, she had secretly married him for seven years.<br /> <br /> "Lareina, I'm getting a divorce from Theodore."<br /> <br /> Joanna shook her head and picked up her phone to call Lareina Collins.<br /> <br /> Lareina sighed and asked, "Have you finally come to your senses? Not planning on living as a widow anymore?"<br /> <br /> "I'm currently dividing Theodore's assets. Once I have them, our pharmaceutical company can expand its operations."<br /> <br /> "Make sure you don't go easy on him. What's yours is yours, not a penny less."<br /> <br /> "Of course, I've roughly calculated that I can get at least several billion."<br /> <br /> After all, the Howard Family was the richest family in New York, with their business spanning globally. The description of being as wealthy as a country was not an exaggeration for the Howard Family.<br /> <br /> "Are you still going to the boxing match tonight?"<br /> <br /> Lareina asked, rubbing her chin.<br /> <br /> "I attend the boxing match every year. I heard there's a new Brazilian fighter this year, and I'm eager to meet him."<br /> <br /> "I'll wait for you at the gate of your villa at eleven tonight."<br /> <br /> "Okay."<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, in the office of the President of Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> In the spacious and simple office, a man in a black Italian handmade suit quietly listened to his subordinate's report.<br /> <br /> "She has no objections to the divorce? No arguments or fights?"<br /> <br /> Theodore raised his chin, his eyes coldly staring at the man.<br /> <br /> "Yes... that's correct."<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores seems to only care about dividing your assets."<br /> <br /> As for the divorce, she didn't seem sad at all.<br /> <br /> What a strange woman.<br /> <br /> Theodore coldly said, "Then redraft the divorce agreement. Give her what she's entitled to, but also warn her not to appear in front of me again."<br /> <br /> He didn't want to be bothered by her.<br /> <br /> "Also, have they found a new fighter for the boxing match tonight on Theisen's side?"<br /> <br /> Theodore adjusted his collar, his gaze sharp.<br /> <br /> Patrick hurriedly explained, "Theisen has called and said the Brazilian fighter is very strong, and this time we're sure to win."<br /> <br /> Theodore propped his chin with one hand, his tone icy, "I've placed a ten billion bet with Aldrich this time. We can't let their side win."<br /> <br /> "Theisen is very confident, but... it seems there might be another competitor this time."<br /> <br /> "Which club is he from?"<br /> <br /> "Not a club, he's a boxing champion."<br /> <br /> "Boxing champion Butterfly?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, she had a big reputation before, always wearing a helmet when she appeared, reigning champion for several years with no opponents."<br /> <br /> "Interesting."<br /> <br /> Theodore was also a boxing enthusiast, and now that he heard that the boxing champion Butterfly would also be participating in this bet, he put down his hand and stood up, saying, "Then let's welcome the boxing champion properly, it's time for a new title holder."<br /> <br /> "After the match, bring her to see me."<br /> <br /> "Yes."<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> At two-thirty in the afternoon, the butler knocked on Joanna's door.<br /> <br /> Joanna was playing team matches with her team when she heard the butler calling her, so she immediately clicked on auto-play, got up, and opened the door.<br /> <br /> "What's the matter?"<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores, the young master has an important document that needs to be delivered to him. Can you help deliver it to him?"<br /> <br /> The butler handed a document to Joanna.<br /> <br /> Joanna raised an eyebrow and asked, "He has never lived here, how did an important document end up here?"<br /> <br /> The butler calmly explained, "This document was just sent from overseas to here, it should be the address filled in by the old master when he was alive, so..."<br /> <br /> "It's very important, so I hope Mrs. Flores..."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized the importance of the document.<br /> <br /> Joanna happened to be hungry, and seeing the butler's expectant expression, she took the document, walked past the butler, and left.<br /> <br /> "Make sure to deliver it to the young master, it's very important."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized once again as Joanna walked away.<br /> <br /> As Joanna walked away, the butler breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> Hopefully, after the young master sees Mrs. Flores' beauty, he will change his mind about the divorce!<br /> <br /> Twenty-five minutes later, Joanna parked her motorcycle in the parking lot next to Howard Corporation. After taking off her helmet and quickly tidying her hair, she held the document and walked directly towards Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> Married to Theodore for seven years, Joanna had never been to Howard Corporation before, so today was her first time.<br /> <br /> She entered the lobby and walked straight to the elevator, pressing the button for the CEO's office floor.<br /> <br /> When she arrived on the 22nd floor, Joanna stepped out of the elevator and was about to walk towards Theodore's office when the elevator next to her opened, and Theodore, dressed in a black suit, stepped out.<br /> <br /> "I will contact President Scott later and discuss the plan with him in detail..."<br /> <br /> "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> Joanna saw the man's face, more handsome than in TV interviews, and couldn't help but call out his name.<br /> <br /> However, Theodore's attention was on the contract in his hand at the moment, and he didn't notice Joanna beside him.<br /> <br /> Joanna's beautiful face turned dark.<br /> <br /> She held the document in her hand, suppressed her temper, walked up, and patiently said, "The butler asked me to deliver this..."<br /> <br /> "Bring the documents and come with me to see President Scott," Theodore said, glancing at Joanna and assuming she was the assistant just brought in by the secretary. He spoke in a commanding tone towards Joanna.<br /> <br /> Seeing his unfamiliar expression towards her, Joanna's face instantly turned cold. Holding the documents in her hand, she coolly reminded Theodore, "President Howard, I am not your assistant. My name is Joanna Flores."<br /> <br /> Even if their marriage was forced and they had never met before, shouldn't he at least know his wife's name?<br /> <br /> "Are all the details clear? You will discuss the pros and cons of our project with President Scott later," Theodore completely ignored Joanna's earlier words and gave her orders.<br /> <br /> "I don't keep useless people around me. If you want to work at Howard Corporation, take it seriously," Theodore ordered Joanna in a cold tone before instructing her to follow him.<br /> <br /> Joanna restrained the urge to punch someone, her face turning red as she resisted the temptation to throw the documents in Theodore's face.<br /> <br /> Theodore was truly bullying her.<br /> <br /> How could he not even react to her name?	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.l	103664918974065	Novelnovel	https://facebook.com/100080677897601	451	1	8,168,472,753,180,103	2024-04-30 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Install now	Novelnovel	120210073546610562	play.google.com	NONE	image	Read Werewolf Novels, Vampire Stories, Romance Webnovels at LycanNovel	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lycan.novel	2024-04-30 04:37	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440597652_887780279787124_1883531044672986655_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=FDAV5vdrGz0Q7kNvgG8L8rR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfC-o0ywwvzWR-j2L9TEaitxqHfa6_OwepUIIzSNNFPyrA&oe=663A6A40	person_profile	Novelnovel	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438837293_815901190396092_8231055026667579147_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=R9iwkErtqI8Q7kNvgH3cVy8&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDx_Escyn6qze6o-jBI1MjOjBqXM4vRDpWi8xpwnVIznA&oe=663A9384	3	Novelnovel	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,654,530	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1654520}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:10	active	680	453217543737875	Read More Exciting Content👉	New York, Howard Family.<br /> A woman with long hair hanging loose looks coldly at the documents in front of her.<br /> <br /> The words "divorce agreement" are clearly written on them!<br /> <br /> "The young master said he won't shortchange you on the compensation he should give you."<br /> <br /> The man standing in front of Joanna Flores explains to the woman without any humility.<br /> <br /> Joanna picks up the documents and scans them, then says, "Palazzo di Mare, Villa degli Ulivi, Mansion on the Hill, Chateau du Lac, these properties are not included in the division for me?"<br /> <br /> The man blinked, seemingly surprised that Joanna Flores is so familiar with Theodore Howard's assets.<br /> <br /> He thought that when the young master asked for a divorce, Joanna would definitely make a scene, but she only wanted to calculate the joint assets of the couple.<br /> <br /> "Um... maybe the lawyers overlooked these properties when counting them."<br /> <br /> "Then reorganize and present me with the revised divorce agreement after dividing the assets." Joanna calmly reminds the man.<br /> <br /> "Okay, I'll call the young master right away."<br /> <br /> After the man leaves, Joanna's previous calm and indifference disappear, and she collapses weakly on the sofa behind her.<br /> <br /> She rubs her nose and recalls the seven years of marriage, feeling incredibly ridiculous.<br /> <br /> She has been secretly married to New York's pride, Theodore Howard, for seven years, without even seeing her own husband's face.<br /> <br /> Mr. Howard senior passed away suddenly a week ago, and Theodore couldn't wait to divorce her.<br /> <br /> On the day of the funeral, Theodore went back to his country, and Joanna thought she would finally meet her husband, but Theodore only came back for the funeral before leaving for a business trip.<br /> <br /> Joanna sighs at the man's cold and heartless behavior.<br /> <br /> A man who can't even stay at his own grandfather's funeral for more than ten seconds, with money as his only concern, is definitely a ruthless and heartless man.<br /> <br /> If it weren't for Mr. Flores senior owing a debt to the Howard Family patriarch, who demanded Joanna to marry his grandson, Joanna would never have agreed to marry Theodore.<br /> <br /> A nobody in her eyes, she had secretly married him for seven years.<br /> <br /> "Lareina, I'm getting a divorce from Theodore."<br /> <br /> Joanna shook her head and picked up her phone to call Lareina Collins.<br /> <br /> Lareina sighed and asked, "Have you finally come to your senses? Not planning on living as a widow anymore?"<br /> <br /> "I'm currently dividing Theodore's assets. Once I have them, our pharmaceutical company can expand its operations."<br /> <br /> "Make sure you don't go easy on him. What's yours is yours, not a penny less."<br /> <br /> "Of course, I've roughly calculated that I can get at least several billion."<br /> <br /> After all, the Howard Family was the richest family in New York, with their business spanning globally. The description of being as wealthy as a country was not an exaggeration for the Howard Family.<br /> <br /> "Are you still going to the boxing match tonight?"<br /> <br /> Lareina asked, rubbing her chin.<br /> <br /> "I attend the boxing match every year. I heard there's a new Brazilian fighter this year, and I'm eager to meet him."<br /> <br /> "I'll wait for you at the gate of your villa at eleven tonight."<br /> <br /> "Okay."<br /> <br /> Meanwhile, in the office of the President of Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> In the spacious and simple office, a man in a black Italian handmade suit quietly listened to his subordinate's report.<br /> <br /> "She has no objections to the divorce? No arguments or fights?"<br /> <br /> Theodore raised his chin, his eyes coldly staring at the man.<br /> <br /> "Yes... that's correct."<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores seems to only care about dividing your assets."<br /> <br /> As for the divorce, she didn't seem sad at all.<br /> <br /> What a strange woman.<br /> <br /> Theodore coldly said, "Then redraft the divorce agreement. Give her what she's entitled to, but also warn her not to appear in front of me again."<br /> <br /> He didn't want to be bothered by her.<br /> <br /> "Also, have they found a new fighter for the boxing match tonight on Theisen's side?"<br /> <br /> Theodore adjusted his collar, his gaze sharp.<br /> <br /> Patrick hurriedly explained, "Theisen has called and said the Brazilian fighter is very strong, and this time we're sure to win."<br /> <br /> Theodore propped his chin with one hand, his tone icy, "I've placed a ten billion bet with Aldrich this time. We can't let their side win."<br /> <br /> "Theisen is very confident, but... it seems there might be another competitor this time."<br /> <br /> "Which club is he from?"<br /> <br /> "Not a club, he's a boxing champion."<br /> <br /> "Boxing champion Butterfly?"<br /> <br /> "Yes, she had a big reputation before, always wearing a helmet when she appeared, reigning champion for several years with no opponents."<br /> <br /> "Interesting."<br /> <br /> Theodore was also a boxing enthusiast, and now that he heard that the boxing champion Butterfly would also be participating in this bet, he put down his hand and stood up, saying, "Then let's welcome the boxing champion properly, it's time for a new title holder."<br /> <br /> "After the match, bring her to see me."<br /> <br /> "Yes."<br /> <br /> ...<br /> <br /> At two-thirty in the afternoon, the butler knocked on Joanna's door.<br /> <br /> Joanna was playing team matches with her team when she heard the butler calling her, so she immediately clicked on auto-play, got up, and opened the door.<br /> <br /> "What's the matter?"<br /> <br /> "Mrs. Flores, the young master has an important document that needs to be delivered to him. Can you help deliver it to him?"<br /> <br /> The butler handed a document to Joanna.<br /> <br /> Joanna raised an eyebrow and asked, "He has never lived here, how did an important document end up here?"<br /> <br /> The butler calmly explained, "This document was just sent from overseas to here, it should be the address filled in by the old master when he was alive, so..."<br /> <br /> "It's very important, so I hope Mrs. Flores..."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized the importance of the document.<br /> <br /> Joanna happened to be hungry, and seeing the butler's expectant expression, she took the document, walked past the butler, and left.<br /> <br /> "Make sure to deliver it to the young master, it's very important."<br /> <br /> The butler emphasized once again as Joanna walked away.<br /> <br /> As Joanna walked away, the butler breathed a sigh of relief.<br /> <br /> Hopefully, after the young master sees Mrs. Flores' beauty, he will change his mind about the divorce!<br /> <br /> Twenty-five minutes later, Joanna parked her motorcycle in the parking lot next to Howard Corporation. After taking off her helmet and quickly tidying her hair, she held the document and walked directly towards Howard Corporation.<br /> <br /> Married to Theodore for seven years, Joanna had never been to Howard Corporation before, so today was her first time.<br /> <br /> She entered the lobby and walked straight to the elevator, pressing the button for the CEO's office floor.<br /> <br /> When she arrived on the 22nd floor, Joanna stepped out of the elevator and was about to walk towards Theodore's office when the elevator next to her opened, and Theodore, dressed in a black suit, stepped out.<br /> <br /> "I will contact President Scott later and discuss the plan with him in detail..."<br /> <br /> "Theodore..."<br /> <br /> Joanna saw the man's face, more handsome than in TV interviews, and couldn't help but call out his name.<br /> <br /> However, Theodore's attention was on the contract in his hand at the moment, and he didn't notice Joanna beside him.<br /> <br /> Joanna's beautiful face turned dark.<br /> <br /> She held the document in her hand, suppressed her temper, walked up, and patiently said, "The butler asked me to deliver this..."<br /> <br /> "Bring the documents and come with me to see President Scott," Theodore said, glancing at Joanna and assuming she was the assistant just brought in by the secretary. He spoke in a commanding tone towards Joanna.<br /> <br /> Seeing his unfamiliar expression towards her, Joanna's face instantly turned cold. Holding the documents in her hand, she coolly reminded Theodore, "President Howard, I am not your assistant. My name is Joanna Flores."<br /> <br /> Even if their marriage was forced and they had never met before, shouldn't he at least know his wife's name?<br /> <br /> "Are all the details clear? You will discuss the pros and cons of our project with President Scott later," Theodore completely ignored Joanna's earlier words and gave her orders.<br /> <br /> "I don't keep useless people around me. If you want to work at Howard Corporation, take it seriously," Theodore ordered Joanna in a cold tone before instructing her to follow him.<br /> <br /> Joanna restrained the urge to punch someone, her face turning red as she resisted the temptation to throw the documents in Theodore's face.<br /> <br /> Theodore was truly bullying her.<br /> <br /> How could he not even react to her name?	INSTALL_MOBILE_APP	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.l	103664918974065	Novelnovel	https://facebook.com/100080677897601	451	3	1,481,047,199,475,738	2024-05-01 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	1	0	Install now	Novelnovel	120210073550750562	play.google.com	NONE	image	Read Werewolf Novels, Vampire Stories, Romance Webnovels at LycanNovel	http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lycan.novel	2024-04-30 04:31	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440353219_1178928643108440_8728704726043209048_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zmeuVfGAbRQQ7kNvgE4xZ8x&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDq2lCwMnlEHY5sa4OfEyvf-wAG_ZAEHP88RP4KemWbVw&oe=663A8D99	person_profile	Novelnovel	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440207994_953469846269236_1868908952485836084_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=VyBiOn2yNe4Q7kNvgGh7oQq&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfC4oVeDNRNUpJbfoyZao27H5PRWQdUBCHZ1taXRt3RMKA&oe=663A74F4	3	Novelnovel	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,654,584	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) null	Yes	2024-05-03 04:10	active	680	774270054671058		Dental Hygiene Visits are the cornerstone to maintaining health and preventing disease. Our hygienists are valued as true clinicians and I hold them to a high standard of care, co-diagnosis, and patient education. <br /> <br /> As a patient at Joanna Claustro DMD & Associates, you benefit from appointments that are not rushed and your individual concerns and needs are expertly addressed. 👩🏻‍⚕️👩🏽‍⚕️<br /> <br /> My team and I are committed to providing a true patient-focused experience. We are committed to giving you the TIME YOU DESERVE. <br /> <br /> As some other dental offices are turning to assisted-hygiene models (you are with a hygienist for 30 minutes or less) or pushing increased patient volume — I have become even more intentional in protecting the integrity of our hygiene department. This, I know, is the only way to protect and maintain the quality of care our patients receive. 👏🏽👏🏽<br /> <br /> Our hygienists are so much more than “simply tooth cleaners,” they provide clinical care aimed at improving your health and lifestyle. ✨ They make sure your concerns are heard and you leave feeling confident in your health! <br /> <br /> 🚨Patients are not cattle. Don’t accept being treated as such. You deserve a dental team that offers you the adequate amount of time it requires to provide excellence. Discover the #TeamClaustroDMD difference. Call or text 703-406-8600. <br /> <br /> #dentist #dentalhygiene #dentalhygienist #qualitycare #smallbusiness #health #wellness #confidence #dentalcare #ashburn #loudouncounty #leesburg #aldie #southriding #rockthedrill #clinicalmastery	VIEW_INSTAGRAM_PROFILE	http://instagram.com/joannaclaustrodmd	675171312535783	Joanna Claustro DMD	https://facebook.com/JoannaClaustroDMD	837	1	1,426,715,084,946,095	2024-05-03 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Visit Instagram profile	Joanna Claustro DMD	6625048204382	instagram.com	NONE	image		http://instagram.com/joannaclaustrodmd	2024-04-30 09:21	https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440901536_986491116421147_5602468263982849783_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=-YqdDdZlncUQ7kNvgFKj45a&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBjzW2_HlahQZ7Xh3zmcpircbNvqb3z6r8Ut5dBXh3oYg&oe=663A6427	person_profile	Joanna Claustro DMD - Cosmetic Dentist & Invisalign	https://scontent-iad3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/441029539_2723754631120185_6777718664823206641_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=1DFjCE6sTUAQ7kNvgHYv-Ah&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBNdtFyCVxUZDYLZ8wF9a4O6427_F57enceWBYoRysC5w&oe=663A6F9E	3	Joanna Claustro DMD	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,653,714	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653840}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	1370309620274413	Bundle Home & Auto	I can help you choose home and auto coverage that fits your needs. Contact me to help create a Personal Price Plan®.	CONTACT_US	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;39035	215487024976718	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://facebook.com/insuredbyjoanna	51	1	25,830,110,453,269,400	2024-05-01 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Contact Us	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	120209153476520233	insuredbyjoanna.com	NONE	dco	See what you can save	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;390351529;p	2024-04-30 15:09	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440879235_311510835165699_6675757717616572515_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=zm7K-mb91B8Q7kNvgE4N4Iy&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmX8vYGw2-X8V_hy2VAOBkRHY2OSgqXtgRbK2YO9WXDA&oe=663A6006	person_profile	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440935458_391453897214171_931771155684728361_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=9BxDbi-qbdUQ7kNvgErO95P&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfCvY8YPrxTEGS_4N3JvdDrOz1tc_z6Nfz4ACQgncNngPw&oe=663A8C3C	3	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	2024-05-01 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,653,527	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653840}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	739676918336131	Bundle Home & Auto	I can help you choose coverage that makes sense for your needs. Bundle your home and auto today.	CONTACT_US	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;39035	215487024976718	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://facebook.com/insuredbyjoanna	51	2	755,782,899,998,188	2024-05-01 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Contact Us	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	120209153523670233	insuredbyjoanna.com	NONE	dco	See what you can save	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;390351529;p	2024-04-30 15:26	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438854596_470263602100523_460431722568505964_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=CMWkU3D6MT0Q7kNvgG-X3oO&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBxdm5HyduHxD47LxkbboUbEqwQ1x98P6NhWYuBF3G92w&oe=663A8DDF	person_profile	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438834308_442939701476829_7517045664488947679_n.jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=Ov73h9QLmxEQ7kNvgGCi27x&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAXSWxoYbQ94PDClWIW_42lXhUcWljIAKy1LDGsmUERRQ&oe=663A7E0C	3	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,653,737	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653840}'	No	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	842734014347977	Bundle & Save	Choose to bundle & save. Contact me for a home & auto quote today.	GET_QUOTE	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;39035	215487024976718	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://facebook.com/insuredbyjoanna	51	2	3,816,065,745,292,318	2024-04-30 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Get Quote	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	120209153473590233	insuredbyjoanna.com	NONE	dco	Get a quote today	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;390351529;p	2024-04-30 14:59	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438837462_1339787276688308_455933784209522883_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=n7iOwkoiG1IQ7kNvgG0ieWa&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfBTRkoM7AiStTqlZDXBgB2fwjgnO8o9J_qLeK8w2JngpA&oe=663A6BD6	person_profile	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440450388_1620176962076126_6521623622801980273_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=kC8DD6OXYx4Q7kNvgG76aKz&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfAZOogzUWzsA1ykkLMxTfO-CyUIVPNFnAQviV34E-RHsA&oe=663A6F9D	3	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	2024-04-30 02:00	View Edit Delete
1,653,783	/src/Template/Ads/index.ctp (line 281) '{"alias":1653840}'	Yes	2024-05-03 04:09	active	680	1551044602122706	Bundle Home & Auto	Love to save money? Bundle two policies with one good neighbor. Contact me for a quote today.	CONTACT_US	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;39035	215487024976718	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://facebook.com/insuredbyjoanna	51	3	1,462,257,647,732,632	2024-05-02 02:00	person_profile	eligible	NONE	0	1	Contact Us	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	120209153462340233	insuredbyjoanna.com	NONE	dco	See what you can save	https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/581904853;390351529;p	2024-04-30 14:59	https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/438830612_1656586178412961_1650927763130430834_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_s60x60&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=GBycVbdfIXQQ7kNvgEfGSDD&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-1.xx&oh=00_AfA1_H-90lJVwoW1yrdjhI8xUqLhnzKB-KwC_YZHWKLa-A&oe=663A8188	person_profile	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	https://scontent-atl3-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.35426-6/440575904_1765728133919958_7895680506042008059_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=c53f8f&_nc_ohc=ULPcHidfgkoQ7kNvgEZ6xcP&_nc_ht=scontent-atl3-2.xx&oh=00_AfBAsPz6YrMny0xJjLGnYyfE35O0aXK3uTpp-Uv94-CJOA&oe=663A67F0	3	JoAnna Haupfear State Farm	2024-05-02 02:00	View Edit Delete

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