The Cherished Wife novel Chapter 419

"You..." Jade was taken aback. She had not expected her first stumbling block to be not Noelle, but 'Bob'. "How dare you talk to me like that! I’ve been around long enough to know how things work!"

"I've been holding back out of respect for you as an elder and as Ms. Shaw's mother. I really admire Ms. Shaw and would like to be her friend, but Mrs. Jones, since I've arrived, you've done nothing but pick apart Ms. Shaw. Maybe it's just me, but if Ms. Shaw is as flawed as you say, why are you so eager to have me marry her so quickly? What are you trying to do?" Sean's face grew stern, and his smile vanished, a clear sign that a storm was brewing.

Even Noelle, who was quietly observing, felt a chill watching Sean's transformation. She was used to seeing Sean as the epitome of warmth and courtesy. Even though he was always calculating, he rarely showed his temper. It looked like Jade had finally crossed the line.

"You..."

"Ms. Shaw is quite the catch, and I'm sure there's a whole host of young hotshots out there who are head over heels for her. Mrs. Jones, you really don't need to stress about Ms. Shaw's love life. I'd love to get a meal with Ms. Shaw when we're both free, but I just can't stomach this meal today," Sean said bluntly, not bothering to spare Jade's feelings. "I'll handle things with my mom on my own. And as for what's going on with Ms. Shaw, I'd say it's best if you don't push it, Mrs. Jones."

Noelle could not help but smirk. It was not often that Sean came across so charming, and seeing Jade lost for words was even rarer.

Sean gave her a playful look. "Ms. Shaw, I've got other things to do. Are you ready to leave?"

Jade was trying to keep Noelle from leaving, but Noelle squinted her eyes and said, "Mr. Smith, I've got my own ride." Sean nodded. "Cool. Take care, then!"

It was not until Sean had disappeared down the hall that Jade turned on Noelle, her fingers digging into her arm like claws. "What's wrong with you? Were you too busy daydreaming to hear Bob's snide remarks about me? I'm your mother. Why didn't you defend me? You're never at a loss for words when it suits you."

Noelle met her mother's fiery gaze with a cool one of her own. "And what would you like me to have done, Mom? Start a shouting match with Mr. Smith? You're the one who's been dreaming of me marrying into his family. If I cross him, we might as well say goodbye to any favors from the Smiths. And without their support, the Shaws would be up against the wall, wouldn't we?"