The Sway and Slide of Love

Noelle wasn't as aloof as they had imagined. In fact, no matter what they said,

she would respond to each remark. When someone invited her to an art exhibition or concert, she agreed with a warm smile.

Ironically, the only one who seemed uneasy and silent throughout the whole exchange was Ruth. By the end, she couldn't take it anymore. Making an excuse, she headed straight for the restroom.

Standing in front of the sink, she glanced at her reflection in the mirror, then at the content of the box she held. After confirming that all of this was real, she finally broke into a slow smile.

She still had no idea why Noelle had chosen to cover for her lie. But it didn't really matter, as she had gotten what she wanted.

Not long ago, despite having a close friendship with Adela, Ruth still failed to strike a business deal between their husbands. It was likely because Adela still had doubts about Ruth's relationship with Noelle.

But now, things were different. Whatever Noelle's reason, as long as Ruth could profit from it, that was all that mattered. The only question was how much she could take before Noelle had nothing left to give.

Just as Ruth was mulling over this, the restroom door suddenly swung open behind her.

Noelle stood there, their eyes meeting. For a brief moment, she seemed surprised. But just as quickly, she flashed her the same gentle, kind smile as always.

Ruth, however, froze for a second. Then, she asked, "What do you want?"

Her bluntness seemed to catch Noelle off guard. After a beat, she asked in return, "What do you mean?"noveldrama

"Why did you help me win those people over?"

"I'm not," Noelle replied. "I just genuinely felt bad about what happened at the auction last time. That's all."

"You feel bad?" Ruth smiled wryly "Why would you feel bad about it? Hendrix is practically glued to you now. You could do whatever you want in Coppersville, and no one would dare say a word."

Noelle lowered her gaze and let out a soft laugh. "That's because they don't know

the truth about my situation. But you certainly do."

Ruth narrowed her eyes. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"Didn't you say it yourself that night? Hendrix only married me to appease his family. Even now, do you really think k that just because he treats me wellnow, I'd forget the pain he put me through in the past?"

Ruth fell silent.

Noelle smiled bitterly. "I will never forget how I lost my first child. Yet, at that very moment, he was out buying a birthday gift for Sandra."

Caught off guard by Noelle's reaction, Ruth blurted out, "So? Why are you telling me this?"

"You think I remarried him because I want to be with him for the long haul?" Noelle lifted her head and flashed her a faint smile. "I actually have a different plan. Want to Hear it? You always saw Sandra as your best friend, didn't you?

"But look how she ended up. Don't you feel even a little sorry for her? More importantly, don't you want to change the situation you're in now?"

As Noelle spoke, Ruth's heart started pounding. "Just what are you planning to do?"

Noelle smiled and said, "Why don't we join forces to bring Hendrix down? Once that happens, you'll naturally get everything you want."