Quentin rose to his feet and left.…When Noelle stepped out of the examination room, she noticed a familiar figure. The man was clad in a hospital gown, clutching his stomach, and had just left the nurse's station. He looked like he was in a lot of pain."Mr. Callahan?" Noelle was surprised to see Elijah.Elijah looked over and smiled warmly. "It's you, Elle!"Noelle walked up to him. "What brings you here, Mr. Callahan? Are you okay?"He chuckled bitterly and said, "I have early-stage stomach cancer. My surgery is in a couple of days." He covered his nose with his fist and coughed a few times. "I also have a cold, so don't get too close to me." With that, he turned to leave."Mr. Callahan, did you ever have feelings for my mom?" she asked all of a sudden. Elijah's thin frame stiffened. Noelle continued, "If you did, why didn't you bring her with you? You were supposed to be childhood sweethearts who were in love with each other, no? So, how could you stand idly by and let
Noelle hesitated for a moment. She looked troubled as she gazed at Zara. Eleanor didn't know Zara, and since the invitation was only for her, it would be impolite for her to bring someone along without prior notice. Noelle pondered for a moment before responding, "I'll bring you along another time, okay? I'm not particularly close to the Blackwoods, so it wouldn't be a good idea for me to bring someone along. But I'll definitely introduce you to other prominent families in the future!"The Blackwood family was the most prestigious family in Collinview, while the Xanthos family was a powerhouse in the medical field. Both families held esteemed positions in their respective domains. Noelle figured it would be better to take Zara to her house instead. Zara discreetly curled her lips in disdain, as she didn't believe that Noelle had the connections to introduce her to other prominent families. After all, Noelle was just the daughter of a widowed schoolteacher; what high-society connec
"Noelle's a little hedgehog hiding its quills," Christian thought. "Her gentle demeanor was just an act," he thought as he sauntered over. "Who's this fairy that's got my grandmother wrapped around her finger?"Noelle's skin crawled when she heard that teasing tone.Eleanor smacked Christian. "Don't you recognize Elle? Cut the snark, you little rascal!" Christian glanced at Noelle, noting her knitted brows and slightly annoyed expression; she looked like she wanted to say something but couldn't. He smiled, feeling rather amused.He casually picked up the shopping bag Noelle had brought, intending to see what was inside. But when he pulled out a pair of socks, his lips twitched involuntarily. "Well… That wasn't what I was expecting." Christian tossed the socks back into the bag. Noelle was dumbfounded. She was certain she had purchased a scarf; how did it turn into a pair of socks?The guests whispered among themselves, "Who would give someone a pair of socks as a birthday
Zara had put so much effort into dressing up. Yet, Eleanor was focused on the scarf Noelle had casually bought. Zara discreetly clenched her fists. Hoping to attract Eleanor's attention, she smiled and said, "Grandma Hudson, that scarf looks fantastic on you! Elle definitely knew what she was doing when she chose it!"Christian asked the butler, "Since when did I have a younger sister?"The butler could also tell something was off. Noelle's friend was overstepping. Who did she think she was, calling Eleanor "Grandma Hudson"? Moreover, she'd planted herself right in front of Eleanor ever since she walked in, almost as if she was afraid Eleanor wouldn't notice her. The butler walked up to Zara and said, "Miss, please take a seat outside.""Do we have extra seats?" Christian asked slyly.The butler shook his head. "No." The guest list and seating arrangements were all planned in advance. "So, are you suggesting she sit on your lap?" Christian asked.Even at his age, the butler'
John was also surprised to see Noelle there. It had been over six months since their last meeting when both of them had been drugged, and yet it felt as if a whole century had passed."I went to Dragfort to visit Mr. Lowe Senior a few days ago. I meant to catch up with you as well, but I couldn't find the time. I hope you're not upset with me for that."The crisp autumn air filled their lungs as Noelle and John went to the gazebo to talk. John's feelings for Noelle had gradually faded into a sibling-like bond. His heart now yearned for the woman he couldn't seem to find. He often felt discouraged, wondering if he would ever find her in this lifetime."Of course not." His gaze was warm and gentle, and carried a touch of affection, similar to that of an older brother toward his younger sister, as it landed on Noelle's face. "I was going to ask you out tomorrow, but I'm glad I ran into you today. Did you really save Mrs. Blackwood Senior?" he asked with a smile.Noelle explained bas
Eleanor responded, "He's just a little rascal!"Christian fell silent.Just then, his phone chimed. It was a message from Noelle. "My apologies, Mr. Christian. I won't be able to say goodbye to Grandma Hudson because the hospital has just called me in for an emergency. Please let Grandma Hudson, Mr. Steven, and Madam Xenos know on my behalf. Thanks!"By the time he got to the gates, Noelle's car had already left. Accompanied by Steven Blackwood and Beatrice Xenos, Eleanor saw Mabel out. Eleanor said, "Let's keep in touch more often. Who knows when we'll kick the bucket one day?" Eleanor and Mabel had lost touch years ago due to their different interests. Eleanor was surprised when Mabel showed up, as it was usually Michael who came to celebrate her birthday. Michael couldn't make it as he had a surgery that day. Mabel looked at the loving middle-aged couple and remarked, "I wish I had a daughter-in-law like yours; she looks so thoughtful and caring!"Eleanor chuckled. "You're
Noelle put her phone away and got out of the car. As soon as she looked up, she froze. A tall, slender figure was leaning against a Bentley a short distance away, smoking. His brows were knitted, and he looked deep in thought.As soon as he heard the car door close with a thud, he looked over. When their eyes met, she noticed his eyes lit up. "Elle!" Quentin stubbed out his cigarette and walked over. "What kept you so late? Busy day?"Truth was, he was aware she had attended Eleanor's birthday banquet. He had arrived in Collinview that afternoon, waited outside the hospital until she got off work, and then watched her go to the mall to buy Eleanor a gift before heading to the banquet. He then returned here to wait for her, but he didn't dare to say any of these, fearing it would upset her. The last thing he wanted now was to upset her. "Oh, it's you. Grandpa is ill, and his days are numbered. You should spend more time with him if you can." Her expression turned cold as she walke
As soon as Quentin stepped into the elevator, he grasped Noelle's hand. "Don't worry. It's far away from us!" He was worried that she might be afraid.Noelle froze. She could feel the warmth of his hand and his calming presence, but she no longer needed it. So, she withdrew her hand.A panicked crowd had gathered downstairs, their faces pale with fright as they watched the flames devour the building. Someone mentioned that an electric scooter had caught fire on one of the floors.The apartment buildings were set far apart, but Noelle wasted no time in closing the distance. Quentin watched as she darted toward the scene of the fire and joined the rescue efforts.His heart was gripped with worry. Unsure of how to help due to his lack of experience, he was initially hesitant to get involved, fearing he might hinder more than help. But after a moment's hesitation, he rushed over, quickly found his place, and started helping with lifting the injured. The fire was extinguished, and all