Chapter 9

In front of the Norwoods and the Millers, Jolene calmly responded, "From now on, we're a family." Her words hit Preston like a punch in the gut. He clenched his fists, and his gaze burned into her. Jolene could sense his reluctance and rage, yet she paid him no mind. Instead, she hooked her arm around Cedric's and asked about their upcoming schedule with a smile. Cedric checked the time. When their eyes met again, a flicker of warmth softened his cold, stern gaze. "I didn't get a chance to greet the guests earlier because my flight got delayed. Normally, we'd head back to the family home for a small get-together," he answered. "But you've been on your feet all day. Let's skip that for now and head back to rest. What do you think?" His suggestion drew teasing remarks from the Norwood elders. "Would you look at that? Marriage really does change a man, huh? He's putting his wife first already!" Someone else quipped, "Who'd have thought Cedric, of all people, could be so considera