Ch. 190: Mr. Edwards’ Unraveled Life chapter 190

Chapter 190Elodie's pointed question left Jamie momentarily speechless, her confident demeanor faltering as she struggled to find a fitting response.

Jamie had always viewed Elodie as simple—someone who, once shown kindness, would repay it tenfold with unwavering loyalty. But Elodie's words carried weight. When Jamie first met her abroad, Elodie’s background was unknown—an orphan navigating a foreign world, alone, awkward, and visibly out of place. She was an easy target for sympathy, and Jamie had stepped into the role of protector effortlessly.

Elodie had been fragile, a girl who needed a friend. Jamie had found satisfaction in being the dependable one, enjoying Elodie’s admiration. But now, things were different. Jamie’s pedestal had crumbled the moment Elodie returned to Craggaville and reconnected with her family’s affluence. That sense of control, of being irreplaceable, was gone.

Feigning hurt, Jamie finally spoke. "Is that how you see me? I thought we were friends, but now you’re questioning my intentions? You’ve barely known Norah, yet you trust her implicitly. Have you even considered how that makes me feel?"

Elodie’s eyes didn’t waver. "Did you know I was in danger yesterday? Norah stepped in to help me when I needed it most."

Jamie froze, caught off guard by the revelation. She quickly masked her reaction with concern. "You were in danger? Let me see if you're hurt!"

But Elodie was no longer moved by Jamie’s pretense. Her voice remained steady. "I want to rest. If you have nothing else, I’ll see you out."

Without waiting for a response, Elodie turned and disappeared into her room. The warmth she once reserved for Jamie was gone.

Jamie stood there, stunned. Her attempts to control the situation had failed miserably. Even the maid’s polite but firm ushering toward the door stung.

Back in the car, Jamie fumed. "She’s so ungrateful! When she was struggling abroad, it was me who helped her! Now that she’s living in luxury, she treats me like this? And all because of Norah!"

The bitterness in Jamie's tone was palpable, her feelings of betrayal fueling a newfound disdain for Norah.

Meanwhile, Norah was quietly indulging in a rare moment of peace at home, browsing online for parenting books. Though her pregnancy wasn’t showing yet, she felt its subtle changes and wanted to prepare for the journey ahead. She smiled, gently resting her hand on her stomach.

To avoid suspicion, Norah had the books shipped to Gloria’s house. When she messaged Gloria to let her know, her friend responded with enthusiasm:“Got it! I’ll make sure to research what’s best for pregnant women so you and the baby stay healthy!”

Norah chuckled softly at Gloria’s over-the-top dedication.

Her private moment was interrupted by Kevin’s sudden presence. Startled, she quickly locked her phone and looked up. "When did you get here?"

Kevin raised an eyebrow, catching her swift movement. "Who were you chatting with?" he asked casually, loosening his tie.

"Gloria," Norah replied, her voice calm.

Kevin sat beside her, his expression softening as he relaxed into her presence. Wrapping his arms around her waist, he pulled her close, resting his head on her shoulder. "You’ve been acting different lately," he murmured. "What’s on your mind?"

Norah tensed slightly, unsure how to respond. She had grown increasingly cautious, guarding her secret. To deflect, she said, "Gloria told me a funny story. That’s all."

Kevin didn’t press further but observed her closely. "You know, you used to fuss over me when I worked late, offering to give me a massage or make me tea. Now, you seem distant. What changed?"

Norah remained quiet, unsure how to bridge the growing emotional gap between them. Kevin sighed, sensing her hesitation but choosing not to push. Instead, his tone shifted. "You didn’t touch the crab your parents made today. That’s not like you."

Norah’s heart skipped a beat. She quickly averted her gaze. "I just wasn’t in the mood."

Kevin’s sharp instincts told him there was more to her sudden change in preferences, but he let it slide—for now. He tightened his hold slightly, savoring the rare closeness. "Let me know if anything’s bothering you," he said softly, his words carrying a mixture of concern and suspicion.

Norah nodded, burying her emotions deeper. She knew she had to be careful, especially now that Kevin’s curiosity was piqued. Her secret wasn’t ready to be revealed, not yet.