Noelle's brows knitted together, her annoyance plain to see. She rose abruptly. "Sorry, I need to use the restroom."
Ignoring Jade's calls, she strode away without a backward glance.
Jade turned to Sean, her smile faltering. "My apologies, Mr. Smith. I've spoiled Noelle rotten since she was little. She didn't mean to be rude—she's just shy. You know how some girls can be a little too modest. But between us, she's confessed she's quite fond of you and even dreams of marrying you!"
Sean choked, the tea he had been sipping spewing out in disbelief.
Jade was taken aback but did her best to stay cool, even offering a tissue to Sean. "What's wrong, Mr. Smith? Is the tea too hot? Noelle, how could you serve such scalding tea to Mr. Smith?"
Not a single kind word about Noelle escaped Jade's lips, leaving Sean to question whether her intentions were truly to play matchmaker for Noelle and Bob. However, Jade's eagerness seemed to suggest she was keen on the idea of Noelle marrying Bob. However, the way Jade spoke about Noelle was so harsh. It was clear Jade was quite the character.
It was obvious that Noelle did not get the best treatment from the Shaw family, particularly from Jade. Sean could not help but feel a twinge of sympathy for her.
"No, I just choked on it. Thanks, though!" Sean said with a polite but distant smile, dabbing his mouth with his own napkin, leaving Jade awkwardly holding out her unused tissue. He was not exactly thrilled with having to act as Bob, but it was not the time to show it. "Let's get some food, shall we, Mr. Smith? What's your favorite dish?"
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