Chapter 35 A Pass In Glophia
The manager of Solo Mio Restaurant approached Norah with a welcoming demeanor, offering his greetings with respect.
The crowd in the hall was momentarily taken aback.
Derek observed Norah, his face clouded with curiosity, pondering how she Kad come to be on such good terms with the manager of Solo Mio Restaurant. Could it be that she formed a bond with the Solo Mio Restaurant owner after the recent race?
Rhoda and Coen appeared confused. They understood the Solo Mio Restaurant owner was a prominent figure, enforcing strict reservation policies that no one dared to break. Given Madeline’s account of Norah’s status as an illegitimate child to the Wilson family, how had she managed such a connection with the Solo Mio Restaurant’s owner?
“Listen up,
folks! Our boss has made it clear that Miss Wilson doesn’t need a reservation to dine here. She’s welcome anytime!” The manager, smiling kindly, gently said to the receptionists, “Remember, any oversight with Miss Wilson, and you’ll no longer be needed
here.”
The receptionists nodded, stealing intrigued looks at Norah.
Madeline, stepping away from Derek, asked with a voice tinged with tears, “Miss Wilson, are you acquainted with the Solo Mio Restaurant owner?”
Under Norah’s steady gaze, Madeline hesitated, then added, “I’ve heard that only those close to the owner can bypass the reservation requirement here.”
Norah stayed quiet. The manager, beaming with pride, announced, “Miss Wilson is a VIP guest here, as per the owner’s instructions to ensure she’s always well taken care of. Please, Miss Wilson, this way.”
Norah, with a slight smile and glancing at the four faces displeasure, felt a surge of gratification. “I appreciate it.”
As Norah passed Derek, she murmured, “This Sunday.”
5 various degrees of
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Chapter 35 A Pass to Glophia
Derek’s puzzled look only made her smile more freely, her laughter echoing vibrantly.
The manager escorted Norah to an exclusive chamber upstairs, dedicating himself to her service to ensure she experienced unparalleled hospitality.
Derek couldn’t shake the image of Norah’s graceful presence from his thoughts. He recalled the woman’s once tender actions contrasted with her current aloofness. Was it truly that simple for her to let go of her feelings for him? No, that wouldn’t be possible. Norah must still harbor feelings for him.
Madeline asked softly, “Derek, how is it that Miss Wilson is considered a VIP by the Solo Mio. Restaurant owner? She must have influential connections we’re unaware of.”
Derek let out a sigh and said, “She’s chosen her path. It’s none of my business.”
He tenderly dried the tears on Madeline’s cheeks, comforting her, “Madeline, please stop crying. It pains me to see you this way.”
With a tear–stained smile, Madeline responded, “Alright, I understand. Go and settle the bill.‘”
She nudged Derek gently, urging him toward the cashier.
Curiosity getting the better of her, Rhoda moved closer to Madeline, asking, “Madeline, I’ve never heard of this Norah having any significant standing in Glophia. How did she come to know the owner of Solo Mio Restaurant?”
“I’ve explained this already. She’s the type to lure in men. Maybe she’s got some shady link with the owner of Solo Mio Restaurant and is after Derek. She met Derek alone this morning. Luckily, I got wind of it and timely intervened,” Madeline said with bitterness.
Making Derek meet Norah was Madeline’s idea. If not, Derek would have kept Norah waiting. for the finalization of the divorce, and her schemes couldn’t proceed.
Whenever Madeline spotted Norah, jealousy inevitably bubbled up inside her. Despite Norah’s allegedly uncertain parentage, her beauty and poise overshadowed Madeline, the Powell family heiress. Norah’s presence around Derek fueled Madeline’s insecurity.
Rhoda leaned in and whispered to Madeline, “You must employ whatever strategies necessary to secure Derek’s affection. Remember, wealth is paramount. Men can’t be trusted.”
Rhoda’s gaze briefly lay on Coen, aware of his indiscretions yet choosing a veneer of tranquility for the sake of their children.
Madeline’s eyes hardened with determination, saying, “I’m aware.”
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Chapter 35 A Pass In Glophia
Meanwhile, Norah savored her meal in the chamber, appreciating the culinary excellence. She acknowledged that Sean’s generosity was indeed remarkable.
Back when she was about to exit the restaurant and unexpectedly bumped into Derek, she suddenly recalled the card Sean had given her.
Sean had assured her, “Utilize this card at any Scott Group establishment for utmost service.”
In other words, a pass in Glophia. Should any complications arise, she was to contact Phillip, who would promptly address them. Sean’s concern for her was genuine.
Norah savored the flavors of the steak, admiring the exquisite taste.
Solo Mio Restaurant certainly merited its acclaim in Glophia. Its cuisine was exceptional!
After leisurely finishing her meal, Norah approached the cashier to pay.
The receptionist smiled and said, “Miss Wilson, all your expenses are on our boss‘ account.”
Norah responded calmly, securing her purse, “Extend my thanks to your boss.”
Norah knew these privileges came from Sean who recognized her for her role in delivering medical treatment to his sister and grandpa.
Derek had mentioned looking into Norah’s background. Returning from work, he found Madeline intently reviewing some papers in the living room.
“What’s that you’re reading?” After loosening his tie, Derek sat beside Madeline, drawing her close in her nightgown and breathing in her scent.
Madeline playfully pushed him away. “Cut it out. I’m looking into Norah’s background.”
“That was fast.” Derek looked up, examining a document detailing Norah’s connection with the Wilson family.
The report highlighted Norah’s sudden emergence in the Wilson family two years ago, noting an absence of information about her before her arrival and leaving a gap in her history before coming to the Wilson family.
Out of the blue, Madeline lifted the paper she held and passed it to Derek. “Derek, check this out. After leaving the Carter residence, Norah’s been staying at Dreamview Villas! Dreamview Villas is a place not just anyone can access.”
The document included photos of Norah entering Dreamview Villas, dated within the last
week.
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Chapter 35 A Pass In Glophia
Derek’s expression grew serious. Dreamview Villas was a well–regarded location in Glophia. It was rumored that only a handful of families resided at Dreamview Villas, all holding significant power and influence. How was it possible for Norah, known as the Wilson family’s illegitimate daughter, to reside there?
“Isn’t the Scott family at Dreamview Villas too? Could Norah have moved in with the Scott family?” Madeline speculated, her eyes widening in shock, saying, “That can’t be right!”
“Why not?” Derek countered. “At the racetrack, Sean’s protective stance toward Norah was unmistakable. Plus, the Solo Mio Restaurant manager’s deference to Norah suggests a connection with Sean. I can’t dismiss the possibility.
“Considering how Norah seemed to pursue you, I thought she had feelings for you! Derek, you’re not still hung up on Norah, are you?”
Derek quickly refuted, “No way! My feelings have always been for you!”
His declaration seemed as much a reassurance to himself as to Madeline.
“That’s reassuring.”
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