### Chapter 8 Norah was a tempest of emotions, her heart racing with fury while a forced smile plastered itself across her face. She trailed behind her mother and sister, each step feeling heavier than the last. As they approached their home, a striking luxury car caught their eyes—one they’d never seen before, parked majestically in front of their door, like a silent herald of change. Curiosity swirled within Gloria as she ushered her daughters inside. There, seated comfortably across from Daniel, was a man exuding an effortless charisma that seemed to command the room. Even from behind, it was impossible to look away. Norah's breath caught in her throat. She had never encountered such captivating handsomeness. With eyes wide and full of questions, she hurried to her mother's side. “Mom, who is that?” she asked, her voice a whisper barely holding back the excitement. Gloria shook her head slightly, brushing aside her daughter's curiosity as she approached Daniel. "Hey, Daniel." Upon seeing them, Daniel sprang to his feet, his eyes lighting up as he introduced them. “Jared, this is my wife, and this is my younger daughter.” As Daniel proudly introduced Nicole, the warmth in his gaze was unmistakable. Norah waited in anticipation for her introduction, but Daniel’s gaze flickered past her, leaving her feeling invisible. In that moment, Jared's icy blue eyes swept over the trio, pausing for just a heartbeat longer on Nicole. “Hello, I’m Jared,” he greeted, surprising both Gloria and Norah. The name sent a ripple of recognition through them. The Bond between the Johnston and Riddle families was deep-rooted, dating back generations. A marriage arrangement had been set between their grandfathers, and Jared was the fiancé Norah had heard whispers of but had never met. He had spent years studying overseas, and now, in a twist of fate, he had returned—only to find her no longer considered the cherished daughter of the Riddle legacy. Norah’s heart sank as she realized Jared's interest lay solely on Nicole. A rush of jealousy pierced through her, each breath felt like needles against her chest, sharp and unrelenting. “If only Nicole had returned sooner,” she thought bitterly, “this moment could have been mine.” “Nicole,” Jared said, his voice smooth and inviting. Taken aback by his directness, Nicole replied simply, “Nicole.” She said nothing more, leaving an awkward silence hanging in the air. Gloria, sensing the tension, stepped in to ease the situation. “Nicole is straightforward. I hope you don’t mind,” she explained, her voice tinged with embarrassment. Jared’s gaze lingered on Nicole for a moment longer. “It’s quite alright. I’ve always appreciated directness,” he replied, causing Daniel and Gloria's faces to brighten with hope. Jared was the pinnacle of achievements within his family, and their dreams of a future son-in-law just took a promising turn. As the three of them settled into their seats, Gloria tactfully ensured that Nicole and Jared sat together—a decision that left Norah feeling like an outsider as she took her place across from them. A wave of discomfort washed over Nicole, wondering why she found herself seated next to a stranger, a man who sparked an inexplicable curiosity within her. Breaking the silence, Jared lifted his coffee cup and spoke again, “My grandfather has been unwell and wishes to meet my fiancée. I know it sounds odd, but that’s why I’m here today.” The word “fiancée” hit Nicole like a bolt of lightning. “Fiancée?” she echoed, bewilderment marking her features. What on earth was happening? Daniel's muffled cough snapped both women back to reality. Gloria quickly jumped in to clarify, “Nicole, your grandfather and Mr. Johnston Sr. arranged this marriage long ago. Jared is your fiancé.” “Wait—what?” Nicole’s voice rose in disbelief. “Are you serious, Mom? This is insane! Who even does arranged marriages anymore?” Daniel’s expression softened, filled with sympathy for his daughter’s predicament. “I know it’s difficult to understand, but this was customary in your grandfather's time. We hoped you could see the good in it, especially since Jared is such a remarkable young man.” Norah, witnessing the scene unfold, felt a rush of indignation. “Nicole, you were destined to marry Jared. With your return, you must reclaim what is rightfully yours. You cannot let Grandpa down!” Her plea drew the attention of everyone in the room, and even Jared turned his gaze toward her. Feeling the weight of his attention, Norah's heart raced. She unearthed a smile that she hoped conveyed grace, while inside she felt like a tempest. Jared's voice cut through the tension as he directed his words at Norah. “So, you’re the adopted daughter of the Riddle family?” His emphasis on “adopted” landed like a heavy stone, dulling her smile instantly. In that moment, a cold dread washed over Norah. She had always been painfully aware of the circumstances of her adoption and the shadows it cast. The words stung deeper than she anticipated. She fought to hold back tears, lips pressed together, the crimson hue of her face a perfect canvas of shame and vulnerability. But the empathy she usually wielded as a shield felt impotent under Jared's indifferent gaze. “I truly appreciate our grandfathers' arrangement,” he continued, his tone casual and composed. “However, times have changed. If you're unwilling to agree, perhaps you should consider canceling the arrangement.” The nonchalance in his voice echoed through the room, leaving Daniel and Gloria in a state of shock. “Cancel the marriage arrangement?” The words stuck in the air like an accusation. The implications of Jared’s statement twisted like a knife in Norah’s heart, confusion and frustration swirling within her. What had started as an ordinary reunion had morphed into a web of old traditions and unexpected revelations, and she couldn’t help but wonder if they were all about to unravel.