Read More

Chapter 423

Lindsey had noticeably changed her behavior. She was now overly respectful toward Mila and trying to
flatter her.
It dawned on Mila that Layla’s hostility toward her wasn’t just because of her previous social status but
also because of her relationship with Nathan.
The large dining table was filled with delicious food and wine. Everyone from the Morrison family,
except Daniel, sat around the table to enjoy the meal.
“Wanda, I realize I may have been ignorant and unintentionally hurtful to you in the past. I hope you
can forgive me,” Lindsey said, trying to make amends with Mila.
“Lindsey, I didn’t take any offense to it,” Mila replied with a faint smile.
Layla raised her glass and took a sip before scornfully taunting, “Today, all the Morrisons gathered to
celebrate Florence’s birthday. But what about you, Ms. Hoffis? What brings you here?”
Mila shot Layla a stern look. As Layla appeared ready to provoke Mila, the atmosphere grew tense
around the table.
“As far as I’m aware, your previous marriage to Nathan was null and void,” Layla continued. “You’re
neither his wife nor his girlfriend. You’re the only outsider here. I’m curious what gives you the nerve to
show up.“.
Feeling embarrassed, Duke discreetly kicked Layla under the table.
Unabashedly, Layla snapped back, “Why are you kicking me?”
Duke immediately recoiled and hung his head in embarrassment.
Florence and Gary shared a hesitant glance. They were reluctant to upset Layla, leaving them unsure
about how to proceed.
Meanwhile, Taylor, Wendy, Tobias, and Cheryl merely acted as spectators, not wanting to intervene. It
appeared that no one was inclined to come to Mila’s defense.
“Layla, she’s not an outsider. She’s Wanda Hoffis,” Lindsey interjected.
Layla crossed her arms, projecting an air of pride and coldness. “So what? She’s still not one of us. We
agreed this was a family gathering, shouldn’t it be just for family?”
Nathan appeared unhappy, glaring coldly at Layla. He snapped, “Just because our marriage
isn’t recognized legally doesn’t change that she’s still my wife. If you have any issues, talk to me
instead of involving Wanda.”
Lindsey snorted before muttering, “She’s only upset because you didn’t marry her back then.
Layla’s expression suddenly shifted.
Duke’s face twisted with anger, and he slammed his hand on the table. “Aunt Lindsey, mind your
words. Speak out of line again and you’ll regret it.”
Lindsey smirked. “Oh my, I’m trembling. Why don’t you ask your wife why she’s so bitter? And why
does she always go after the women around Nate?”
Duke’s and Layla’s expressions soured, and they fell silent.
Trying to lighten the mood, Florence forced a smile and interjected, “Let’s not argue. It’s my birthday
after all, and it’s nice for us to share a meal without any tension.”
Lindsey pointed at Layla and said, “Well, she keeps stirring things up. Since Wanda arrived, Layla’s
been picking on her. I reckon she’s still hung up on Nate, so she’s jealous of Wanda.
Layla was furious and embarrassed. She stood up and yelled, “Nonsense!”
Duke became silent. He shook with anger as if Layla had betrayed him.
Mila felt guilty for causing the argument. She went to Florence, gave her the birthday gift, and said
goodbye.
were
Florence and Gary very upset by what was happening.