Mia couldn't care less about engaging in a drawn-out conversation with Zoey. With an eye roll, she grabbed her shopping bag - stuffed with designer goodies - and breezed out of the scene.
Zoey's face was the picture of serenity, a stark contrast to Wilma who was fuming.
"Zoey, let's just pick something else."
Zoey just flashed her a smile, "I'm fine."
But Wilma’s heart ached for her friend, and she splurged on five luxury handbags, racking up a tab that was north of three hundred grand.
"They're on me."
"No need to break the bank."
"Just take them. The endorsement deal you landed us is worth way more than this."
No longer protesting, Zoey picked up the bags, and shoulder to shoulder with Wilma, they headed for the exit.
As they approached the mall doors, Zoey's eyes caught sight of Belinda, who'd apparently been lying in wait since who knew when.
"Zoey," Belinda's face dripped with a guilt that didn't quite mask the covetous glint in her eyes as she ogled the shopping bags filled with symbols of luxury - a few hundred thousand dollars at least.
Her daughter was loaded now. Once upon a time, a few hundred thousand would've meant life or death for their family; now, it was merely the price tag for some of Zoey's bags.
Belinda was a storm of anger. Her own life was coming apart at the seams - on the brink of divorce, without a dime to her name - and there was her daughter, living the high life.
Feigning ignorance of Belinda's presence, Zoey stepped forward, intent on leaving. But Belinda clutched at Zoey's wrist, "Zoey, I’m truly sorry. I've been waiting here just to apologize."
Zoey's expression turned icy, a kind of cold indifference that could freeze people out. Meanwhile, she felt utterly annoyed, thinking when this person would give her some peace.
"Let go," the moment she finished the words, Mia’s voice came.
She strutted up, her arms laden with the spoils of luxury shopping, a mocking sneer instantly taking root when she spotted Belinda.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't the deadbeat mom who can't live without a man."
But then, Belinda spoke up, "The poison was Zoey's idea. I've got recordings and photos. I want to use them to send her to prison."
Mia, who despised Zoey more than anything for having tainted her perfect brother, lit up at the prospect of her enemy's downfall.
"Where's the evidence?"
"In my car," Belinda pointed to a shadowy alley nearby.
Mia, having been sheltered and spoiled all her life, was unfamiliar with the treacherous depths of deceit. Besides, she was always the one who could bully others, and never thought of others having the guts to strike back.
Especially this person was Zoey’s mother; to her, Zoey was merely a trash, and what would a “trash” family member possibly stir any trouble?
“I’m warning you, if you dare to tell me lies, I’ll make sure you won’t be able to see tomorrow’s sun.”
With a dozen of bags in hands, she followed Belinda to the alley nearby, her pride overshadowing caution.
Belinda popped the trunk, revealing a few photos. Mia lunged for them, only to be suddenly overwhelmed by a handkerchief pressed against her face. Her world spun, and she crumpled to the ground.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Dear Ex-wife Marry Me novel (Maja)
Author, would you story about Ryan settling down and another story on Eric regaining his body and memories back from Patrick, and Eric also settling down as I find it so disheartening for him to have gone through what he went through at the research institute, and I'll like for him to get his "golden boy" life back though, not at the detriment of Ian....
When will the author update to finish Beck's story? What about Dylan and Tyler's love lives? Also, I'll like the author to write on Wilma and Elvis ending up together as she was quite persistent in pursuing him. And Shawn's story, Cornelia Sullivan and Omar Casson. Also, a little write-up on Jeff (Ian's assistant) love life, too. Thanks, author for updating....
When will get update?...
What is wrong that the author has not updated this novel in over a month or is there somewhere else that I can continue reading the novel from chapter 1951 upwards? Do tell, please. Thanks....
Is everything alright with writer?...
Author, why are there no updates after almost 2 weeks? What's going on with the updates,Author? Do update soon....
Will any update make for us?...
Is author ok...
Playing too much with my emotions. It’s been 9 days and no updates. What is going on with Fitch and Zoey?...
Is author playing with our emotions?...