Chapter 35
“Jessica, the youngest in the Fisher family must be almost forty by now, right? The Fishers always seem to have a thing for second marriages, but that’s not my cup of tea.”
Sophie didn’t consider Jessica’s feelings at all.
Jessica, predictably, glared at Sophie. Perry quickly intervened,
Joho ou suggesting Jessica tone it down a bit.
“Sophie, don’t stoop to Jessica’s level. She’s just wo
With Perry stepping in, Sophie softened a bit.
be getting the short end of the stick here.”
Jessica wasn’t much older than Sophie, strikingly glamorous and seductive. After divorcing his first wife, Perry had married Jessica, who was seen as nothing more than a mistress by the Russell
Ironically, Perry was very fond of Jessica, so his family also to
However, Jessica always seemed to clash with Sophie. In her past later, when the Russell family fell into financial trouble, Jessica kicked
This time around, Sophie was not about to hold back.
respect due to his feelings.
had tolerated Jessica for Perry’s sake, but a few years to the curb and took off with his wealth.
“Sophie, Jessica’s words may be harsh, but this is the Russell family’s gathering. You two just got married a month ago. He should be here.” A distant relative of the Russell family chimed in.
“Yeah, why not give him a call? We can wait a bit longer,
The others quickly agreed.
Sophie knew exactly what they were after. The Russell family owned extensive properties, and these people were just looking to take advantage of the family gathering to vie for a business deal with James.
“If it’s too much trouble for you, Sophie, I can make the call on your behalf. After all, we’re all family here, and sooner or later, you’ll have to meet.” Jessica waited eagerly to see Sophie embarrassed.
Everyone in Devonport knew that Sophie and James’ marriage was just a business arrangen everyone remembered how she used to follow him around like a puppy.
And James’ affections were known to lie elsewhere.
“Jessica, no need for you to bother. James is tied up with work, and I don’t want to disturb him.”
nes didn’t truly care for Sophie, and
“Is he really tied up, or is he with someone else?” Jessica’s insinuations hinted that James might be involved with another woman.
Sophie gave Jessica a cold look.
Undeterred, Jessica continued, “I saw Mr. Burke at the mall today, picking out women’s products, and he was with another girl. It didn’t seem like those gifts were for our dear Sophie.”
Hearing this, Perry became serious, his brow furrowed as he turned to Sophie, “Sophie, what’s this about? Is James seeing someone else?”
“Uncle Perry…”
Sophie was about to explain when the grand doors of the Russell house swung open.
James entered, looking sharp in a suit, followed by several bodyguards, each carrying gift boxes. “Sorry for being late, everyone.”
Sophie was startled and whispered, “Why did you come?”
James didn’t answer Sophie directly but instead took her hand and said, “I was delayed preparing a surprise gift. Luckily, I wasn’t too late.”
Jessica was taken aback by James’ sudden appearance. She was sure she had seen James at a women’s store with another woman.
Perry’s expression softened, “James, it’s great that you could make it. But these are…”
“Just some gifts for everyone since it’s our first meeting.” James smiled faintly, “I meant to surprise Sophie, but it seems I almost messed it up.”
James then turned to face Jessica.
Jessica, unable to muster a smile, sounded weaker, “But I clearly saw you shopping with a girl during the day. Surely, I couldn’t have been mistaken.”