Chapter 140

Even so, he insisted on accompanying his “first love” to the hospital.
If only I’d tripped him last night, Noreen thought ruefully. Let’s see if he’d still be running around for her.
Outside the hospital, the weather had cleared. A rare patch of winter sunlight bathed Rivercrest City, warming the pavement and brightening
the air.
Noreen tilted her face upward, letting the gentle sun brush her cheeks, a mocking smile tugging at her lips.
Impossible? Please. People’s hearts are fickle by nature.
That was the lesson she’d learned: she could understand, accept, resolve, and–most importantly–let go.
Noreen and Carman’s business trip fell on a weekend. Mina had rushed over from college, cornering Carman in his office for a long, excited chat. “Bro, this is a golden opportunity–you have to seize it!”
“My chance to call someone ‘sister–in–law‘ depends entirely on you!”
“Remember, it has to be a proper confession. There must be flowers! That way she’ll know how much you care.”
“In short, good luck! I’ll be waiting for your triumphant return to Riverci est City!”
Carman was starting to get flustered by her enthusiasm. “But… what if she turns me down?”
“Then try again!” Mina shot back without missing a beat.
He hesitated. “I’m just worried she’ll feel awkward and we won’t even be friends anymore.”
Chapter 140
That was his real fear.
Mina nearly exploded with impatience. “Can’t you just grow a thicker
skin? Besides, she’s your business partner now–do you really think she’s going to disappear on you?”
Carman had to admit she had a point. “Alright. I’ll do my best.”
They’d booked economy class seats, and Carman worried Noreen wouldn’t be comfortable. He tried to upgrade her ticket.
But Noreen declined with a smile. “I’ve always flown economy for work trips–it’s fine. You worked late last night and barely got any rest. Use this chance to catch up on sleep.”
With that, she pulled on her eye mask and snuggled into her seat, determined to get some shut–eye.
But the people in the row ahead wouldn’t stop talking.
Their voices weren’t loud, but they were close enough for Noreen to hear every word.
“Why didn’t your cousin book us business class? These economy seats are so cramped.”
“She tried, but business was full. My cousin’s boyfriend could easily afford it. If it weren’t for the summit restricting private flights, we’d be on a jet right now!”
-The woman next to him spoke soothingly.
“And listen, my cousin’s boyfriend really spoils her. He just bought her a mansion in Laurel Heights–you know, the exclusive estate! Cost over ten million! He’s so generous.”
Laurel Heights Estate?/
The name was too familiar. Noreen’s attention sharpened.
So she’d underestimated Seth.
She’d assumed he’d bought Bianca a five or six million dollar
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house–turns out, it was the crown jewel of Laurel Heights.
Makes sense, she thought bitterly. Anything cheaper would be beneath him. Of course he’d buy the very best. Check latest chapters at.net
That meant these two in the row ahead were exactly who Sophia had complained about–Bianca’s younger cousin and her boyfriend.
So they really did tag along on this trip.
“Did you mention my business proposal to your cousin?” the man asked.
“I did,” the woman replied. “She said it needs some work. You should
revise it.”
The man sounded annoyed. “Her boyfriend’s loaded. Even just a tiny bit of his resources would be enough to set my little company up for life. Can’t you talk her into it? Men are always swayed by their girlfriends, right?”
She soothed him again. “I know you’re anxious, but don’t rush. Once their relationship is more stable, you’ll get whatever resources you want.”
“What do you mean by stable?” he pressed.
“Like, an engagement or something. My mom said they’re already planning it–it won’t be long now.”
Noreen stared at the back of the seat in front of her, lost in thought.
Seth and Bianca… already planning to get engaged?