Chapter 175 Do You Like My Brother?
The presence of Aaron and Edric made breakfast an amusing spectacle. Following the meal, Nora was tasked with escorting the trio of children to their place of learning. Aaron, however, refrained from accompanying them, nor did he suggest that Noe should undertake the duty. He believed in the importance of allowing room to breathe within relationships.
Having spent the previous day persistently pursuing her, he reasoned that another day of the same might leave her gasping for respite. After all, Nora was not Jenny. If he attempted to charm her using Edric's tactics, it would likely result in a negative outcome.
Upon delivering the children to preschool and setting her course for the laboratory, Nora breathed a sigh of relief. Her thoughts turned to the botanical ingredients, prompting her to inspect the storeroom first. Upon discovering that all the necessary items had been delivered, she allowed herself a moment of relaxation.
"Nora," Jack's voice echoed through the lab, signalling his arrival.
"Jack," she responded.
"Join me in my office," he suggested.
They entered the office in succession. Jack poured Nora a glass of water and took a seat opposite her.
"Is Aaron pursuing you, Nora?" Jack's direct inquiry caused Nora's hand to pause mid-sip. After a moment of contemplation, she nodded in affirmation.
"Yes."
Jack's brow furrowed in concern. "I suspected as much. Did he use the botanical ingredients deal to pressure you?"
Nora placed her glass on the table. "Jack, this isn't your concern. He did express his interest in me, but I made it clear that until his family accepts me, we will maintain a respectful distance."
Upon hearing this, Jack ventured a cautious question. "Do you have feelings for Aaron, Nora?"
It seemed he and Jenny were cut from the same cloth, posing identical inquiries.
Nora swept her hair back, a smirk playing on her lips. "Jack, we live in a pragmatic society. The elite prioritize social standing. Emotions aren't the be-all and end-all. I don't believe I'm lacking, but there's no need for me to marry into wealth and be shackled, is there?"
Jack considered her words, finding them reasonable. 'So, even if she harbors affection for Aaron, she may not marry him?'
As he studied Nora's calm countenance, a flicker of disappointment crossed his eyes. 'She's fallen for Aaron. Her heart belongs to another. Does he even have a chance?'
A sudden surge of defiance filled him, prompting a desire to fight for something.
"Nora," he began, gathering his courage to confess.
However, the ringing of his phone interrupted him. Glancing at the display, he saw Sue's name. The device lay on the coffee table, within Nora's line of sight as well.
"Jack, you should answer that," she suggested.
With a nod of acknowledgment, Jack picked up the call.
"Hello?"
"Jack, are you free for lunch? I'd like to express my gratitude to you and Dr. Smith for your assistance last week," Sue's cheerful voice echoed through the line.
Jack cast a glance at Nora. "Hold on a moment, let me check with Nora."
Nora turned to him, curiosity in her eyes. "What's the matter?"
"Sue has invited us to lunch."
The prospect of a meal courtesy of Sue brought a subtle twinkle to Nora's eyes. She nodded in agreement. "Sure."
'Jack could use a girlfriend. Perhaps I could play matchmaker for Sue?' she mused.
After a bustling morning, Nora found herself accompanying Jack to the luxurious Golden Harvest Diner.
The establishment was a dazzling spectacle, its opulent decor shimmering throughout. The first floor boasted a grand lobby, while the second offered a comfortable lounge area.
The third floor was reserved for VIP suites, each one promising an unparalleled level of privacy. Red carpets lined the hallways, leading to each private dining suite. A waiter promptly guided them into one of these exclusive rooms.
Inside, Sue was already waiting. Her stylish short hair still framed her delicate features.
"Jack, Dr. Smith, there you are. Come on over and sit," she welcomed them warmly.
"Sue," Nora acknowledged her, taking a seat.
"I'll just head to the restroom," Jack excused himself, offering Sue a polite nod.
"Sure, I'll start ordering," Sue replied, her smile lingering as she watched Jack depart.
With Jack momentarily absent, Nora seized the opportunity to probe Sue.
"Do you like Jack?"
Sue hesitated, then admitted with a half-joking tone, "I do."
'Well, that's promising!' Nora mused.
Suddenly, Nora blurted out, "Then let me help you two get together."
Sue was taken aback, clearly not expecting such a proposition from Nora.
Nora, however, was on a roll. "Sue, you should go after Jack. I'll be your wingman."
Sue studied her for a moment before finally asking, "Wait, why do you suddenly want to play matchmaker?"
A glint appeared in Nora's eyes as she retorted, "They say matchmaking brings blessings to your own life."
"Really?" Sue was skeptical, her piercing gaze fixed on Nora. "With my years of directing, I can tell something's off. Does he like you, and are you trying to get rid of him?"
Nora fell silent.
Sue was too sharp, effortlessly piercing through her facade.
"No, it's just that Jack is such a great guy, and I want to help him find a great girl, you know, sister-in-law material."
While selecting items from the menu, Sue asked, "Do you think we're a good match?"
"I really think you two are perfect for each other," Nora said with a smile.
One was gentle and easy-going, the other was straightforward and decisive. One was tall and robust, the other petite and delicate. They seemed made for each other!
Sue shot her a glance, "Do you think you know me that well?"
"I'm a doctor. I trust my gut." Nora retorted playfully.
Sue couldn't help but burst into laughter.
"So, spill it," she challenged. "How do you plan to wingman for me?"
Nora hadn't really figured that out yet when Jack emerged from the restroom. She quickly clammed up. She couldn't let Jack know she was playing Cupid - he would definitely be put off by it.
"What are you two chatting about?" Jack settled next to Nora with a smile.
Sue blinked teasingly, "We're talking about you."
Jack looked up, "Talking about me? What about me?"
Nora's breath hitched, wondering if Sue was about to sell her out.
"I was asking Nora what you usually do. Are you just buried in your lab experiments or what?" Sue explained.
Nora sighed in relief, thinking Sue, being a prominent director, must be sharp.
"I used to be like that, totally immersed in my research." Jack took a sip of water, a hint of regret flickering in his eyes. 'Because of this, he had missed out on the woman he liked!'
"Sue, Jack being focused like that is why he's likely to be successful in his career," Nora complimented.
Sue nodded in agreement, "You're right. I admire men who are devoted to their careers. They have a certain charm." Her gaze rested on Jack, her vivacious eyes twinkling with mirth.
Jack felt a tad uncomfortable under her gaze and changed the subject, "Have we ordered?"
"I picked out a few dishes. Nora, take a look and order a few more." Sue handed her phone to Nora.
Nora glanced over the menu and noticed something amusing.
"Sue, didn't you pick all of Jack's favorites?"
Sue poured herself a glass of water, blinking innocently.
"Did I? I remember eating out with Jack before, so I recalled his preferences. Looks like my memory hasn't failed me." Her gaze was intense. Jack met her eyes briefly before looking away. 'It seems like Sue is flirting with him every time she speaks.'
He took another sip of water, remaining silent. Seeing his glass nearly empty, Sue stood up to refill it for him. Her gaze lingered on the man's slender, fair fingers, barely paying attention to the world around her.
"I bet being caressed by such beautiful hands would make anyone feel good!"
"Sue, watch out, the water's spilling," Nora called out.
Some water had splashed onto the back of Jack's hand.
Sue quickly set down the kettle and pulled a napkin to dab at Jack's fingers.
"Sorry, Jack, did that scald you?"
"It's fine, the water's just lukewarm. I got it."
Jack reached to wipe his hand himself, but Sue caught his hand firmly in hers.
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