Love on the Fast Track (Derek and Norah)

Chapter 274:

It wasn’t until Derek’s grandmother’s call that he hastily whisked Madeline away. The Powell family set off to Carter Manor on short notice. Derek concurred with his grandmother’s urgency. The wedding should proceed swiftly, especially since Madeline’s pregnancy was still in its early stages.

Yet, amidst the rush, Norah’s image flickered through Derek’s mind. Derek shook his head. What did he miss her for? “No, we can’t back out now. Your parents are en route,” Derek replied.

Forfeiting attendance would cast Madeline and Derek as playing tricks in the eyes of both families’ elders. In that case, Madeline’s and Derek’s reputations wouldn’t remain untarnished.

Grudgingly, Madeline trailed behind Derek into Carter Manor. Inside the living room, Sharon and Kathy occupied adjacent seats, while Derek’s grandparents, Matthew and Juliana, sat in the prime spots on the sofa. Their faces were grim, tongues held by invisible reins.

Opposite Sharon sat Derek’s father, Adrian, a figure with scant influence within the Carter family, relegated to a managerial role in the Carter Group. Adrian cast blameful glances at Kathy, knowing full well her recklessness left unspoken.

Soon after, Derek and Madeline made their entrance, breaking the somber spell that had gripped the room.

“Derek, take a seat. Kathy, scoot over a bit and make room for your brother.” Sharon’s warmth toward Derek was palpable, but her reception of Madeline was marked by a disdainful snort. “Here you are.”

Sharon lapsed into silence, turning

has the stories

sake. “Madeline, please, have a seat. We’ll

Madeline

her escape from here. Guilt gnawed at her,

brow, scrutinizing Madeline with a perplexed gaze. Wasn’t she once known for her graciousness toward others? How had she fallen short

were always marked by courtesy toward Sharon and Kathy. As for Juliana, Norah effortlessly charmed her

Coen and Rhoda showed up. Juliana rose, acknowledging them with a nod. “You’re aware of why Derek summoned

to discuss Madeline and Derek’s future,” Juliana said, her

“We’ve just learned of it from Madeline. Her mother and I

recognized Coen’s gambit, allowing the Carters to dictate terms

consideration and claimed two-thirds of their wealth. Juliana felt her