Episode 113
For a fleeting moment, Billie’s icy demeanor seemed to thaw, but Elizabeth’s next words swiftly refroze it.
Elizabeth gripped the fabric of her dress, her voice a hushed whisper of determination. “But I can’t leave. My boss is still here, and it would be inappropriate to abandon him midway through the event. As a newcomer, I can’t risk damaging the Norris family’s reputation by acting irresponsibly.”
Billie’s gaze locked onto Elizabeth, a cold understanding dawning in her eyes. She let out a sardonic laugh. “Now I see your true self. I wish Shawn and Melany could witness this facade you’ve so carefully constructed.”
Kailee chimed in with gleeful malice, “Look at you, Elizabeth. You’re practically rebelling against Aunt Billie now!”
Sandra, the architect of this discord, wore a faint smile of triumph. Having stirred the pot to her satisfaction, she decided against fanning the flames further. Glancing at her phone, she spoke with calculated politeness. “Mrs. Norris, Kailee, Ms. Elizabeth, I’ve got some matters to attend to. I’ll leave you to enjoy yourselves.”
“Billie, I’ve been away too long. My boss might come looking for me,” Elizabeth interjected hastily, crafting an excuse to escape the brewing storm. “I’d better head back.”
Billie’s eyes burned holes into Elizabeth’s retreating figure, anger radiating from her like heat off asphalt on a summer’s day. Seeking privacy, she pulled out her phone and dialed Elijah. “Did you know Elizabeth attended the Bowman Group’s party?” she demanded.
Elijah’s response was matter-of-fact. “Yes, I gave her the invitation. She’s been emotionally fragile since the fire. I thought the Peninsula Hotel’s desserts might lift her spirits.”
Billie’s frustration bubbled over. “I’ve heard rumors of her involvement with a rich playboy from the Rodgers family. You should control her better before anyone discovers she’s your wife. She’s barely been part of the family, and already she’s compromising our image.”
Billie had long tolerated Elizabeth’s humble background, hoping for an eventual pregnancy. But Elizabeth’s apparent attempts to leverage her status as Mrs. Norris and the absence of any grandchild were wearing thin her patience.
