Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed novel Chapter 172

Norris replied, "I guess I should discuss it with Madge first before..."

"Discuss?" Joie's voice dropped, "Discuss what? You're the man of the house! Are you saying you can't make a simple decision without running it by your wife?"

"Mom, it's not about being the man of the house. It's just basic respect to at least mention it to Madge..."

"Spineless! Go ahead and discuss. It's best if she agrees, but it doesn't matter if she doesn't. Your father and I are definitely coming over tomorrow!"

With that, Joie slammed down the phone.

Norris was speechless.

"What's wrong? Who was that?" Madge walked in from the backyard to see her husband scratching his head.

"…Mom."

"What did she say?"

"She wants to come over for a family dinner tomorrow, kind of a housewarming..."

"That sounds lovely," Madge said with a smile. "Let's invite the whole clan then. Jack, Jill, and their families, and don't forget Alva and the rest."

…

The next day, bright and early, Madge headed out to the market.

By four in the afternoon, everyone had arrived.

Abbey walked in, looking around, her heart souring more with each glance.

She knew Norris had moved into a mansion, a luxurious one at that, but seeing it in person was a shock beyond expectation.

Even the most eloquent and composed guest found themselves unusually silent.

It took a nudge from Irving Cole for Abbey to manage a forced, "Congratulations, Norris, Madge."

Lauretta was also there, turning to Madge, "Auntie, may I take a look around?"