Doreen, buoyed by the flattery, grew even more conceited.
When Nicole returned to cut the cake, Doreen deliberately asked Roscoe, âRoscoe, do you know what I wished for just now?â
Roscoe remained silent, his indifference palpable.
He regretted trying to get along with Doreen.
How could he have ever been drawn to someone so quarrelsome and aggressive? Those rumors of him once falling for her must be incorrect.
Lately, Roscoe had been haunted by dreams of a woman with eyes Like butterfly wings and a smile that dazzled brighter than the stars.
She was unlike ordinary girls, her spirit free and courageous.
Quite admirable.
In his dreams, his love for her felt overwhelming.
But upon waking, her face eluded him, and a sense of loss pervaded his thoughts.
He couldnât recall who she was, but he was certain it wasnât Doreen.
Noticing Roscoeâs silence, Vicki prodded, âDoreen, what did you wish for? Jarrod and I are very curious.
â
Feeling less isolated, Doreen replied, âI wished for Roscoe and me to start a family soon.
â
Vicki laughed behind her hand.
âCalling that a wish? Youâre already close to making it happen.
â
Vicki playfully nudged Jarrod.
âSeems like Doreen canât wait.
Roscoe is so desirable that Doreen wants to tie the knot soon, or someone might snatch him away.
â
Though the comment was light-hearted, it unsettled Doreen.
She managed a smile.
âVicki, youâre teasing me again.
â
Vicki grinned, pleased.
âNo, itâs wonderful youâve found your love.
Jarrod and I are truly happy for you.
â
Nicole sliced the first piece of cake and offered it to Doreen.
This time, Doreen accepted it without fuss and then pointed at Jarrod, saying, âThe next piece is for my powerful uncle.
â
Vickiâs expression momentarily tightened.
One couldnât expect much from a fool, but showing displeasure over a piece of cake was beneath her.
As Nicole presented the cake to Jarrod, he hesitated, scrutinizing it instead of accepting it immediately.
Nicoleâs arms grew weary from holding the plate, and what had been a Lively moment turned awkward.
Everyoneâs eyes were on the cake.
Vicki, unable to stand the tension and feeling slighted, quickly said, âJarrod doesnât enjoy sweets.
Iâll eat it on his behalf.
â
As she reached for the cake, Jarrod suddenly took it from the bottom of the plate and set it on the table.
Vickiâs face stiffened further.
Maintaining her composure, Nicole continued to distribute the cake.
When Nicole handed a piece to Vicki, Vicki fixated on Nicoleâs hand, her mind racing.
Had Jarrodâs fingers brushed Nicoleâs when he took the cake?
âPlease, enjoy it,â Nicole said to Vicki.
It took Nicoleâs reminder for Vicki to snap out of it.
She managed a forced smile and replied, âThanks.
â