Serendipity's Secret (Melanie) novel Chapter 18

Chapter 18 

This time, Edward didn’t take the car; instead, he opted for a bicycle. Melanie sat sideways on the back, hesitating for a moment before lightly gripping his shirt for 

balance 

The neighborhood was lively at this time of day. While most of the younger folks were at work, the older men and women gathered under the trees, chatting and gossiping. When they saw Edward riding his bicycle with his new wife on the back, they couldn’t help but watch. 

Once the couple was out of sight, the murmurs began. 

“It’s a shame that Edward married a woman like that.” 

“Isn’t that the truth? It’s quite the scandal.” 

One older woman chimed in with exaggerated expressions while eating almonds, “You wouldn’t believe it, but I saw Gabrielle yesterday. The poor girl was crying her heart out She looked so pitiful.” 

the mention of Gabrielle, , the group became even more animated. Everyone knew she had been chasing after Edward for years, only for him to suddenly marry someone else. It was hard for anyone to accept. 

“And what’s worse is that this Melanie, apart from being somewhat pretty, really has nothing going for her.” 

They continued one after another, tearing Melanie’s reputation apart. Meanwhile, Edward had planned to take her to a local landmark. But midway through, she spoke up, saying she wasn’t interested in sightseeing and wanted to check out the department store instead. 

Edward figured she must have something to buy and didn’t ask too many questions, changing course toward the store. 

Once there, she excitedly began browsing. Edward thought she was looking to purchase something and was already prepared to pay. But after wandering through the store for quite a while, she still hadn’t bought a thing. 

Assuming she was hesitating over 

er the cost, Edward asked, “Did you see anything you like? I can get it for you.” 

Melanie had been so engrossed in her thoughts that she had almost forgotten be was with her. His words brought her back to reality. “No, I’m just looking,” she replied. 

In truth, she wasn’t shopping for herself. She was scoping out business opportunities, trying to figure out what kind of small venture could make money in the current economy, With limited funds, she knew she would have to start small. 

The two of them wandered through all four floors of the department store before heading to the nearby shopping street. As they walked, Edward began to pick up on her intentions. 

Lowering his voice, he asked, “You seem pretty interested in these shops. Do you have something in mind? 

She didn’t hide her thoughts and nodded. “I want to start a small business. I’m just checking out the area today. Her response surprised Edward. He furrowed his brow, clearly not expecting it 

First, she was pregnant, and he felt she should be focusing on her health. Second, she had grown up in the countryside and hadn’t received much formal education. Running a business required skill and experience, and to him, it didn’t seem realistic for her to jump into something so soon. 

Beyond that, at this time, small business owners were often looked down upon Sapphire wouldn’t approve of Melanie becoming a vendor. 

Street vendors were seen as no better than farmers, and Edward knew Luca and 

t didn’t think it was necessary for her to go through such hardship. 

It wasn’t that he looked down on small business owners himself; he just d “Running a business is hard work. You need experience and a wide network of connections. I’m not sure it Dad and Mom would support it,” he said. 

The Grayson family, being well–off and traditional, likely wouldn’t be thrilled at the idea of their new daughter–in–law setting up a stall somewhere. If word gor around the neighborhood, people would talk behind their backs. Edward knew Luca and Sapphire wouldn’t tolerate it. 

“Why wouldn’t they agree? Melanie’s expression tumed serious, “I’d be eaming money with my own two hands. What’s wrong with that? Sure, I’m pregnant, but It’s still early, and I’m fully capable. I can’t just rely on your family forever, eating and drinking without contributing. How would that look? 

She had no intention of becoming dependent. There were already plenty of people in the Grayson family who didn’t think highly of her if she didn’t start earning her own money, she feared she would never be able to hold her bead high in the future.