Second Life New Choices novel Chapter 5

Chapter 5

Upon hearing Preston, Jolene looked up. A hint of joy tinged her usually indifferent tone as she asked, “Did you say your Uncle Cedric is returning to the country?”

Noticing that she was now her usual self, Preston smiled knowingly. “That’s right. Are you that eager to marry me? Don’t worry. I will be at the wedding. Don’t ever act up again. Playing hard to get is interesting at first, but it’ll just annoy me if you keep using the same trick.”

As he spoke, he opened his car door.

Jolene knew he wouldn’t listen to her even if she explained. Giving up on the notion, she got into the passenger seat. She said frankly, “I want to go home to make myself more presentable.”

Preston thought that she must’ve loved him very deeply. That was why she took the family dinner seriously and wanted to meet Cedric looking her best. With an eyebrow raised, he agreed to her request for once.

When Jolene was ready, they went to the Norwood residence. There were many at the dinner. They weren’t surprised to see Jolene and greeted her.

After a short exchange, she sat in a corner, waiting for Cedric to show up. Unsure of how their reunion would go, she wasn’t paying attention the whole night. Her heart thumped furiously.

Soon, Preston realized her abnormal behavior and looked at her, displeased. “I’m right here beside you. Why are you spacing out? This is my last warning. I’ve already promised to marry you, so don’t behave like this again! Otherwise, I may very well take back my word!”

Jolene almost fought back, but she stopped herself in time. Anyhow, he’d soon understand that he wasn’t her groom. There was no need for her to waste her time explaining it to him.

Several minutes later, the main entrance finally opened. Everyone turned to look, expectant. However, the person who had just arrived was Louis Norwood, not Cedric.

Staggering, Louis went to the front and announced, “Cedric was in a mild car accident before he departed and missed his flight. He’s now still overseas and won’t be joining us for dinner tonight.”

After listening to him, Jolene immediately sprung to her feet. “Mr. Norwood Senior, how is he? Are his injuries severe?”

Louis denied it. He comforted her, saying, “He’s fine. It won’t get in the way of the wedding too. Don’t worry, Jo.”

Frowning, Preston tugged her back down. He rebuked softly, “Although we’re getting married, you’re still not my wife. You shouldn’t be showing too much concern toward Uncle Cedric just to flaunt your identity as my wife. That’s inappropriate!”

Having had enough, Jolene was about to tell him the truth when Louis cleared his throat. Everyone quietened.

He said, “I’ve gathered all of you mainly to announce the marriage of convenience between the Norwood and Miller family. The date has been decided. The wedding will be taking place in seven days at Nautilus Resort. It’s between the daughter of the Miller family, Jolene Miller, and…”

As Louis announced the news in his booming voice, Preston received a message from Simone. Something must’ve happened to her as Preston’s face changed upon reading her message. He swiftly got to his feet and left the hall, so he didn’t hear the rest of the announcement.