Ch. 178: Mr. Edwards’ Unraveled Life chapter 178

Chapter 178

Norah walked over and took the dress from the gift bag. It was a dark green, off-the-shoulder gown with a flowing skirt, elegant yet understated. She recognized the design from fashion magazines—a signature piece from a renowned designer, and she knew it came with a steep price tag.

Recalling that Kevin had bought Bianca a million-dollar dress, Norah glanced at him. "This must’ve cost a fortune," she said, her tone half questioning.

Kevin shrugged off the cost. "When I saw it, I knew it would suit you perfectly."

Norah couldn’t stop herself from saying, "So the one you got for Bianca suited her too?"

The moment the words left her mouth, she regretted it. She expected Kevin to criticize her for being petty, but instead, he just smiled, his gaze calm.

"So, you remember that, huh?" he said, amused. "It really bothered you."

Norah said nothing, unwilling to admit how much she remembered—even things she didn’t want to dwell on.

Kevin took her hand gently. "I lent her the money for that dress. She’ll pay it back when she can."

Norah looked at him, surprised. "It was a loan?"

"Yes," he replied. "You didn’t think I’d throw around a million dollars for just anyone, did you?"

Though she felt a bit embarrassed, Norah was also relieved. This cleared up a misunderstanding that had nagged her for a while. The dress suddenly seemed even more beautiful, and she felt herself relaxing.

"It really is a lovely dress," she said, softening. "Thank you."

Seeing her happy, Kevin smiled. "Worth every cent."

That evening, they drove to Old Mr. Godin’s house together. Norah had only met him once, at the hospital, but she could see now that the Godin family’s residence reflected the old man’s straightforward, no-nonsense nature. The home was a traditional, well-kept estate, with military vehicles parked outside.

Kevin noticed her curiosity. "Don’t be nervous. This is just a family gathering," he reassured her.

She nodded, glancing at the cars outside. "Not many people?"

"Mr. Godin doesn’t like big gatherings, and he values his privacy," Kevin explained. "The people here are all family."

"Didn’t you mention he only has one granddaughter?" Norah asked, puzzled.

Kevin hesitated. "Yes, but the men from his unit are family to him."

They walked inside, greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Old Mr. Godin, dressed in a modest, traditional suit, rose with the help of his cane, a broad smile lighting up his face.

"Kevin! Norah!" he called out warmly.

Norah quickened her steps, wanting to spare him the effort. "Mr. Godin!" she said, smiling back.

"You look stunning tonight, Norah. Looks like Kevin finally bought you a proper dress!" he teased.

Norah laughed, defending Kevin. "You saw me dressed casually last time, but he’s bought me plenty. I just don’t wear them to work."

The old man chuckled. "Good, good. A man who cherishes his wife is a wealthy man."

Kevin greeted him respectfully, "How are you feeling these days?"

"Better than ever," Mr. Godin replied cheerfully. "Outlived quite a few of my old friends, I’d say I’m doing alright!"

Kevin frowned slightly. "Don’t say things like that."

The older man laughed, brushing off Kevin’s concern. "Lighten up, boy!"

They joined the rest of the group. A few men in military uniforms greeted them, their gazes falling on Norah with mild curiosity. One man, who looked to be in his forties, remarked, "So, Kevin finally brings someone along to Mr. Godin’s birthday. About time!"

Kevin’s tone remained cool. "The invitation was sent, so here I am."

"Ah, so you only show up when you’re formally invited?" the man jabbed, a hint of rivalry in his voice.

Old Mr. Godin quickly interjected, "Cassius, be polite. Norah is Kevin’s wife, and she deserves respect."

Cassius looked abashed but couldn’t resist one last dig. "Kevin’s married? Could’ve told us, you know."

Old Mr. Godin chuckled, gesturing for everyone to quiet down. "Kevin’s a private man, just like me. No need to make a big fuss about things."

"Left the army, too, huh?" someone muttered.

Norah turned to Kevin, surprised. She hadn't known he had once served in the military. The realization added yet another layer to the man she was still trying to understand.