Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed novel Chapter 850

Geneva grasped Madge’s hand tightly. “After more than twenty years, I never dared dream of a day like this. I suppose fate’s finally taken pity on me and brought our family back together.”

Seeing her eyes glisten with tears, the old man chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. “Did you forget what the doctor said again? On a happy day like today, you should be smiling, not crying.”

Madge nodded in agreement. “Dad’s right, Mom. Give us a smile.”

The old lady couldn’t help but let out a laugh. “At my age, crying’s not a pretty sight, but smiling is even worse. Honestly…”

“Not true at all! You’re the picture of grace—elegant in a way only the years can bring.”

That made the old lady beam from ear to ear.

Norris gave his wife a silent thumbs-up. Now that’s what I call charm!

Suddenly, there was a knock at the door, followed by Corley’s voice—

“Grandpa, it’s me.”

Neely cleared his throat. “Come in, Corley.”

Corley pushed the door open and stepped inside. His eyes immediately landed on Roseanne, standing between Norris and Madge. For a brief moment, he was clearly struck by her beauty, though he quickly masked it.

“Most of the guests have arrived outside. The ceremony’s ready to begin whenever you are.”

“Alright,” Neely nodded. “Let’s not keep everyone waiting. Time to greet our guests.”

…

The ballroom was ablaze with light and alive with chatter.

The Rodriguez family had invited a veritable who’s who—people from every industry, the best of the best.

Yet, most faces belonged to the same familiar circles. Glancing around, there were plenty of old acquaintances.

“Hey, look—the Pendragons actually showed up? They’ve kept such a low profile for years, always declining every invitation with some nonsense about family tradition. But for the Rodriguez family, suddenly they can’t wait to turn up?”

Cliff raised his champagne glass, a sly grin on his face, clearly enjoying the spectacle.

“And check out that A-list director. He’s impossible to book. I once went to his office myself to ask if he’d shoot an ad for us—he brushed me off. Tried inviting him to dinner, and he just said, ‘Too busy, I don’t do social events.’ Yet here he is for the Rodriguezes. I guess this doesn’t count as a social event then?”

“Alright, enough,” York shot him a look. “I can smell the jealousy from here. You really think your clout compares to the Rodriguezes?”