Chapter 822:
Norah felt a surge of excitement, sensing she was closer to the truth.
With Ivy’s family members effectively vanishing with the death certificates, there must have been someone
assisting them. But who could that be?
With one hand on the steering wheel, Marlin glanced at Norah, who appeared to be confused over something. He
was eager to assist her.
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Marlin’s knuckles whitened on the steering wheel. Sean’s absence gnawed at him. Had his relationship with
Norah hit a snag?
A throat-clearing sound cut through the silence.
Marlin pressed his lips together, his voice dropping to a murmur. “You weren't well the other day. Why didn’t
Sean stay with you? Is he swamped lately? But a girlfriend should cbefore work, right? Does he even take
you seriously?”
He swept his gaze over her, a pointedness in his tone. “Unlike some,” he added, “no matter how slammed | am,
family always comes first.”
Norah's heart stuttered. Work was important, yes, but a healthy balance was key. While she championed work
ethic, a part of her yearned for Sean's presence during her vulnerability. She averted her gaze, her profile
silhouetted against the passing window.
“He’s dealing with something in Glophia. | can handle myself. | hate being a bother.”
“He’s not ‘someone else’, Norah. He's your support system,” Marlin countered, a pang of empathy tugging at his
heart as he saw the loneliness flicker in her eyes. She was a catch, and he knew it. Many would vie for her
attention.
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“My girlfriend wouldn't feel alone or helpless. Rain or shine, I'd be there, not letting her face hospital solitude.”
He stopped at a red light, swiveling to face Norah with a serious expression.
“It's a hop, skip, and a jump from Glophia. Besides, Sean has the means—a private plane, perhaps? A quick flight
wouldn't break the bank. The reality is, he just isn’t prioritizing you.”
He continued, his voice softening, “Listen, Norah, you project strength, but it's okay to lean on someone. No
judgment here.” Marlin didn’t realize his words were laced with affection.
Norah lowered her head. “Thank you for your concern. It’s noted.” Her disinterest was a clear sign to Marlin: she
and Sean were in the throes of passion, and his words wouldn't penetrate the love.
He dropped her off at the hotel, watching her disappear into the building. There would ca day, he vowed,
when he’d stand beside her as her boyfriend.