Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Chapter 850

Geneva grasped Madge's hand tightly. "After more than twenty years, I never dared dream of a day like this. I suppose fate's finally taken pity on me and brought our family back together."

Seeing her eyes glisten with tears, the old man chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "Did you forget what the doctor said again? On a happy day like today, you should be smiling, not crying."

Madge nodded in agreement. "Dad's right, Mom. Give us a smile."

The old lady couldn't help but let out a laugh. "At my age, crying's not a pretty sight, but smiling is even worse. Honestly..."

"Not true at all! You're the picture of grace-elegant in a way only the years can bring."

That made the old lady beam from ear to ear.

Norris gave his wife a silent thumbs-up. Now that's what I call charm!

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, followed by Corley's voice-

"Grandpa, it's me."

Neely cleared his throat. "Come in, Corley."

Corley pushed the door open and stepped inside. His eyes immediately landed on Roseanne, standing between Norris and Madge. For a brief moment, he was clearly struck by her beauty, though he quickly masked it.

of the guests have arrived outside. The

not keep everyone waiting. Time to greet our

...

was ablaze with

Rodriguez family had invited a veritable who's who-people from every industry,

the same familiar circles. Glancing around, there were plenty

such a low profile for years, always declining every invitation with some nonsense about family

sly grin on

Tried inviting him to dinner, and he just said, 'Too busy, I don't do social events.' Yet here he is for the Rodriguezes. I guess this doesn't count

a look. "I can smell the jealousy from here. You really think your

Cliff's face darkened.

the knife. "I'm only stating the

if he'd seen a

scanned the room, distracted. "I'm driving tonight.

And why are you looking all over the place? I'm

something caught his eye and his entire face lit up.

off toward the entrance, beaming like

"Leda! You made it!"

at the man who'd materialized in

"Sure did."

him a curious look.