The passage of time seemed to play favorites with Kaitlin, as she was bestowed the gift of motherhood while maintaining her grace and beauty.
With tears welling up in her eyes, Noelle continued to stare at Kaitlin.
Among her siblings, she was the spitting image of Kaitlin.
She couldnât suppress her excitement.
She extended her hand as Kaitlin approached.
However, Kaitlin didnât even cast her a glance.
She just strode past her and walked towards Mekhi.
âWhy have you told me to come here? I was resting upstairs.
â
A tender and humble grin played upon Mekhiâs lips as he responded, âMom, Noelleâs back.
Sheâs been yearning to meet you.
â
âNoelle?â Kaitlinâs brows arched.
âWhich Noelle?â
Noelleâs face became pale and she fixed her eyes on Kaitlinâs elegant back view.
Seated across the table, Ryder looked cold and averted his gaze while Sally chuckled and gloated.
Holding Kaitlinâs hand, Mekhi led her to where Noelle stood, just behind them.
âMom, this is Blythe, your daughter.
Although she goes by Noelle now.
â
Noelleâs gaze met Kaitlinâs, hoping to glimpse a flicker of surprise or perhaps even a shred of empathy.
But she was met with an ocean of indifference.
Kaitlin looked at her as nothing more than a stranger.
Under that unyielding gaze, Noelle felt uneasy.
She nervously nibbled at her lower lip, and called out hesitantly, âMomâ¦â
Instantly, Kaitlinâs demeanor transformed.
A warm smile graced her face as she nodded graciously.
âDelighted to meet you.
Feel free to settle in and heed Hilliardâs advice.
â
Her words made Sally burst into laughter.
However, she was stifled by Mekhiâs reproachful glare.
She coughed and tried to hold her Laughter in.
Mekhi then changed the subject.
âNow that weâre all present, shall we have lunch? The dishes wonât stay warm forever.
â
Guiding Kaitlin to her seat, Mekhi demonstrated utmost reverence and personally selected portions for her from the spread.
As Kaitlin began to eat, a chafed part of her wrist inadvertently got exposed.
Everyone concentrated on their meals with bowed heads.
But Noelleâs eyes quietly trained on Kaitlin.
The sight of the bruise on Kaitlinâs wrist triggered a swell of uncertainty within her.
At noon, it was time for lunch.
Hilliard was still standing at Yangnaâs gate.