Chapter 294 Noah and Sophia's Intentions
Lauren felt too awkward to ask directly since Noah was beating around the bush and not revealing the purpose of his visit.
"Back at the company, Mr. Martin, you took good care of me. I've always wanted to thank you but never had the chance. Now that you're here today, I want to say thank you formally. Thank you, Mr. Martin, for all your support!" Lauren spoke sincerely.
Noah found it harder to speak up. "Lauren, you don't have to do this. I took care of you back then because I'm Quentin's good friend."
Noah had experienced many things in the business world, but his deep thoughts were of no use now. He followed Lauren's words but accidentally mentioned Quentin, which he shouldn't have.
He maintained an awkward yet polite smile, thinking of giving up when he suddenly heard a Facebook notification.
He lowered his head and took out his phone, using this moment to ease the awkward atmosphere.
[Noah, I've thought it over and decided to come to you. I know you're shy and have trouble saying certain things. It will be easier for us to talk together.] It was a message from Sophia.
Noah was shocked and quickly replied: [Don't come. I'm about to leave. Let's discuss it carefully when I get back.]
On the other end, Sophia saw Noah's message and sneered. She had planned for so long; how could she give up now?
Sophia had already planned everything and was now downstairs at Lauren's new place. She smiled gracefully and moved with confidence as she made her way upstairs.
Sitting in Lauren's home, Noah felt uneasy. He looked around at the piles of luggage and remarked, "You seem busy. I really came at a bad time. How about we chat another time?"
Lauren stood up, ready to see Noah out. "Alright, I am quite busy today. Thank you for coming to see me."
Noah gave an awkward smile, stood up, and walked towards the door.
Just then, there was a hurried knock on the door. Lauren, puzzled, went to open it first, and there stood Sophia.
"Ms. Walker, long time no see," Sophia smiled innocently, but Lauren had seen through such tricks many times.
Lauren coldly said with her curled lips, "Miss Hall, well, look who's here! Are you here to pick up Mr. Martin?"
She wasn't stupid. She had only moved here a few days ago, and not many people knew about it. Yet, Noah and Sophia found their way here one after the other. Noah said he was just visiting her, but she didn't believe it. How could someone who hadn't deliberately investigated her whereabouts find this place?
Noah's visit had something to do with Quentin, but she didn't want to ask or say more. She wanted to stay out of anything related to Quentin.
Sophia smiled at Lauren, asking, "Ms. Walker, it seems we haven't seen each other for a long time. Today is a good day; shall we have a chat?"
Ignoring Noah's presence, Lauren sneered, "Can I refuse?"
Seeing Lauren being so uncooperative, Sophia hated her to the core but had to maintain a good temper and continue talking to her, "Ms. Walker, you have quite the sense of humor. You're always such a gracious host, and I'm sure you wouldn't turn away a visitor."
Noah could tell that both Lauren and Sophia were playing it cool, their words were making him super uneasy. These two definitely weren't up for a friendly chat.
"Sophia, Lauren just moved in, and she still has to unpack. Let's not bother her today. Next time, I'll treat, and we can all get together and talk then," Noah said, forcing a smile.
Sophia shot him a disdainful look, clearly unimpressed. "How can a girl hold back her words? I believe Ms. Walker wouldn't want me to leave with half of my words unsaid."
Lauren knew Sophia had nothing good to say. The last time they had crossed paths outside Quentin's villa, and Sophia wanted to talk then, but Lauren had shut her down. Lauren didn't expect Sophia to show up at her place now.
Lauren realized she couldn't keep dodging this, just like she couldn't face her feelings for Ethan, which had spiraled out of control. So this time, she decided to face Sophia head-on. Whatever scheme Sophia had, she'd deal with it.
Lauren smiled. "Since Miss Hall is so persistent, it would be impolite of me to refuse."
She stepped aside, letting Sophia in.
Noah was sweating bullets, feeling that this situation was going south fast. With him, Lauren, and Sophia all in the same room, the vibe was just off.
Sophia waltzed into the living room and plopped down. Lauren gave her a cold look and asked, "Miss Hall, what do you want?"
Sophia laughed, "Noah and I came to congratulate you. Congrats on your upcoming marriage to Ethan and joining the famous White family."
Lauren had her worries, but she wasn't about to show them. She chuckled, "I don't think we are that close, Miss Hall. My personal matters are not something you need to worry about."
Sophia was about to say more, but Noah cut her off. He quickly moved between them, clapping his hands to break the tension. "You two are being too polite. Lauren, we genuinely want to wish you happiness. Don't blame us for prying into your business."
Lauren smiled distantly, "Why would I? If someone is so concerned about me, I should live well and be happy."
Noah couldn't even look at Lauren as he said this because the insincerity was making him cringe. "Yes, you finally found your happiness, and I'm happy for you."
Sophia, standing behind Noah, was getting impatient. She wasn't here to play nice; she had a goal and wasn't leaving until she achieved it.
Sophia stepped out from behind Noah. "Ms. Walker, I wonder if Noah and I have the honor of attending your wedding? I will also invite you to my wedding with Quentin, but of course, it's up to you whether you come or not."
"Miss Hall, your generosity is truly remarkable. But I'm really busy, so there's no need for you to concern yourself with my marital status," Lauren responded coldly. She figured Sophia was just here to see her squirm.