Madly Yours (Nora Reed) novel Chapter 191

"What is everyone doing standing around the door?"

Just then, Beatrice Lancaster walked slowly toward them, supported by Eleanor.

The previously volatile atmosphere immediately dissipated.

Lawrence's smile remained unchanged, his posture respectful and natural. "Mother, you're here."

Beatrice glanced at him. "Lawrence, help me inside."

"Of course." Lawrence's smile deepened as he leaned in slightly, his demeanor incredibly humble.

Supported by him, Beatrice took a few steps. As they neared the banquet hall entrance, she spoke in an unhurried tone.

"How long do you plan to stay this time?"

Lawrence smiled with genuine warmth. "It's Hudson's wedding. Naturally, I want to stay for a few days to celebrate. Once the wedding is over, I'll stay with you for a while and fulfill my duties as your son."

"Fulfill your duties?"

Beatrice paused slightly, shooting him a sideways glance before continuing forward. "Having the thought is enough. I'm getting old and can't handle too much excitement. Save that filial piety of yours for later."

Lawrence's smile didn't waver. "What are you talking about, Mother? I..."

"Lawrence," Beatrice interrupted. "I called you back to attend Hudson's wedding, not to cause trouble."

A momentary crack appeared in Lawrence's smile, but it vanished instantly.

He lowered his eyes slightly. "You're being too harsh, Mother. I wouldn't dare."

"You'd better not."

Beatrice's voice was tinged with weariness. "Hudson has had a hard life since childhood. His parents passed away early, and I owe him a lot. Now that he's finally getting married, I will not allow anyone to get in the way."

Lawrence nodded respectfully. "You are right, Mother."

"You should drop whatever schemes you have in mind. The position as the head of the Lancaster family is not something you should be eyeing."

The fingers resting at Lawrence's side curled slightly, then relaxed.

He looked up, his eyes crinkling in a smile so sincere it seemed flawless.

Because the marriage was arranged to ward off bad luck, the wedding wasn't extravagant.

Only close relatives and friends were invited to the reception. There was no grand banquet, a level of low-key elegance that was entirely unlike the usual style of San Francisco's top family, the Lancasters.

Nora had initially been a little nervous, afraid she wouldn't be able to handle all the complicated formalities.

But Hudson didn't give her a chance to be nervous.

Aside from the mandatory procedures, he had her stay in the lounge the entire time, even sparing her from the traditional rounds of toasting.

"Just sit here and rest. Leave the rest to me."

Hudson pressed her gently onto the sofa, then leaned over to pour her a glass of warm water, pressing it into her hands.

Nora held the glass, blinking. "I don't have to go for the toasts either?"

"No."

Hudson reached out and ruffled the top of her hair. "Just sit here and be a good girl."