Chapter 333 An Imposter?
With Suzy's scandal winding down, Nora continued her work in the lab, not bothering to keep with the latest gossip.
She heard from Sandy that some of Suzy's endorsements and film projects had fallen through due to the scandal.
Suzy was facing huge compensations and losses.
Emma felt sorry for her and decided to pull her out of the spotlight temporarily under the guise of an engagement.
Hearing this, Nora smirked. How was it that Suzy had crumbled so quickly? She wasn't even done enjoying herself yet, she thought.
A month later, Suzy and Jackson got engaged. Nora didn't attend their engagement ceremony because her research project was at its crucial and final stage.
Nora and Sandy, along with a small team, worked tirelessly in the lab for the past two days. They successfully isolated a valuable strain of bacteria and swiftly secured production contracts with pharmaceutical companies. Nora's time at the lab concluded after these achievements.
"Nora, the lab work is finished; are you heading back to Houston now?" Sandy asked while changing clothes in the lounge.
"That seems to be the case," Nora replied. After all, her home was in Houston; she had to return at some point.
"I'm really going to miss you," Sandy said, embracing her tightly.
Nora smiled and patted her back, "I'll miss you too." Over the month, she had come to think of Sandy as family.
"Then why don't you consider settling down in Lindwood City! Besides, you're the daughter of my father-in-law, and since you're not married, it would be natural for you to live at home," Sandy suggested, releasing her embrace.
Nora chuckled, "Dear sister-in-law, don't forget I have three kids to look after."
She didn't want to live at the Hamilton family home in an uncomfortable arrangement, having to endure Emma's moodiness every day.
"Bring them all to Lindwood City! I love children, and I'd help you take care of them," Sandy offered.
Nora laughed, "Don't even start. You should focus on having a baby with your husband, a symbol of your love."
At this, Sandy's face showed resignation, "Nora, my mother-in-law is constantly hinting for a grandchild; please don't raise the topic, it's too much pressure."
"All right, all right, no pressure; let things take their natural course," Nora said, soothing her.
Sandy glanced down at her stomach in silence, then spoke softly, "You know, I don't really like the idea of having my own children; I only like other people's kids."
Nora was at a loss. What kind of logic was that? "Why is that?" she inquired.
"Because once a child is born, they become the sweetest burden to their parents, a responsibility," Sandy said, looking ahead wistfully.
"Most parents wish for their children to be healthy, happy, safe, and fortunate throughout their lives, but life is never that smooth sailing,." Sandy stated.
Kids get sick or run into problems as they grow up. I think I’d be really scared then, scared I wouldn't be able to handle it, scared they’d get hurt. That would make me hesitate to even bring them into this world to suffer," she added. Her gaze was deep, tinged with a touch of melancholy, which affected Nora as well.
Nora’s heart stirred, wondering if Sandy was thinking about her own upbringing. If she wasn't the heiress of the Hernandez family, who else could she be? But no matter who she was, her nature was kind, and Nora felt a strong affinity with her.
"Sandy, don't overthink it," Nora said soothingly. "Children are a gift from the heavens to parents, just let nature take its course."
Hearing this, Sandy composed herself and chuckled, "Nora, I must be a pessimist, which is probably why I like hanging out with someone as optimistic and cheerful as you."
Nora raised an eyebrow and spread out her right hand, blowing on it. "Here, take this, I’m giving you strength!"
Sandy laughed, "Nora, are you blowing magic my way?"
Nora nodded, "If you think it's magic, it is!"
"Got it!" Sandy made a serious gesture, as if carefully pocketing the 'magic'.
Their laughter erupted, and they shared a smile. "Okay, it's time to clock out," Sandy said, glancing at the time.
Nora changed clothes, said her goodbyes to her mentor and the rest of the research staff, ready to leave the lab. Her mentor thanked her and watched her go.
"Nora, is CEO Gordon coming to pick you up today?" Sandy asked.
"He hasn't mentioned it." Nora was a bit puzzled herself; Aaron usually texted to ask when she'd be off work and would pick her up if he was free.
But her phone was eerily quiet today, not a single call or message.
"If Mr. Gordon doesn't show up, I’ll take you home," Sandy offered with a smile.
Nora gave her a humorous look. "No need, I can take a cab."
"Nah, I can't pass up the chance to escort you, home," Sandy insisted.
Nora conceded, "All right, then."
Chatting and laughing, they left the lab and made their way to the parking lot of Lindwood City University. From a distance, they saw Aaron’s Bentley parked by the curb.
Sandy joked, "Looks like I won't get the chance to be your knight in shining armor today."
Nora flashed a smile, ready to say something, when the car door opened, and Aaron stepped out.
And with him, came the three little ones rushing out to surprise her.
It was so sudden that Nora stood there stunned. It wasn't until the trio ran towards her calling out "Mommy," that she quickly went to greet them.
"Our darlings!" Nora was overjoyed as she crouched down to hug each of the three little ones, planting a kiss on each of their cheeks. The three of them smiled broadly, each giving her a kiss back.
Nora's heart melted completely as she asked, "What brings you all to Lindwood City?"
"Mommy, Grandpa Gordonke sent us," said Billy. "He wanted my brother and me to enter a math competition and to give you a surprise."
Alex nodded in agreement.
That explained it! So, the two brothers were already getting ready to compete at a math competition? Jacob really knew how to provide them with practical opportunities.
Nora, beaming with a touch of pride, patted their heads.
"Mommy, I missed you so much," complained Samantha, feeling a bit neglected by the attention her brothers were getting. Such a little charmer she was.
Nora, feeling all moved, hugged her and kissed her several times.
Standing to the side, Sandy watched the three kids with sheer amazement. "Nora, are these your kids?" she asked.
They were just so delightful!
Nora stood up and said to the little ones, "Babies, say hello to your Aunty Sandy."
"Aunty Sandy!" the children echoed in their sweet, crisp voices.
This was the first time Sandy had ever been called an ‘Aunty’, and she was a bit excited.
She fumbled in her pockets, "Aunty Sandy wants to give you guys some lucky money. Ah, shoot, I don't have any on me. Wait here, I’ll go to the campus store and get some for you all."
Nora laughed, "It's okay, Sandy. The lucky money can wait."
Thinking it over, Sandy said, "Well, then how about this, cuties? Aunty Sandy will treat you to a meal tomorrow, okay?"
The kids exchanged glances, and Alex answered, "Aunty Sandy, we have the competition tomorrow."
Sandy blinked then suggested, "After the competition, then. Aunty will treat you to dinner to celebrate."
The trio looked at Nora, who smiled, "Sounds good."
Aaron glanced at the time, "We should head back now."
"All right," agreed Sandy as she watched them get into the car and drive away, feeling a bit reflective.
Those kids resembled Aaron so much. One might think they were Aaron and Nora's children together.
Perhaps it was fate?
Sandy sent silent blessings Nora's way as she headed to her car.
At that moment, a Continental pulled up beside her and stopped. The door opened, and Zephyr stepped out from the driver's seat.
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