Chapter 97
Meanwhile, elsewhere, Alden seemed focused on driving as he had to take his mother to one of the hotels. As far as he remembered, there was a birthday celebration event today that they had to attend.
Upon arrival, Alden helped his mother open the car door. But instead of letting him go after that, his mother held him back and invited Alden to come inside.
“You have to accompany Mom inside.”
Alden was surprised. This wasn’t what they agreed on at home.
“Why does Alden have to accompany Mom? Usually, Mom also comes by herself to every celebration or gathering. Why does Alden have to come now?”
Zendaya seemed indifferent. She didn’t let go of her son’s arm.
“The thing is, Aunt Riana is celebrating her birthday today. Mom feels bad if you don’t come along. She invited both of us.”
Alden was even more surprised. Only now did he know that it was his mother Regina’s birthday.
“But, Ma. I already have plans. If I don’t hurry, I’ll be late.”
“What plans? With Aurora?”
Alden nodded. He never lied to his mother.
“Yes. I’ve had plans to meet Aurora today for a long time.”
“Accompany Mom for a while. Besides, it’s not every day there’s a birthday party. If you want to meet Aurora, you can do it anytime. You’re together every day, right?”
Alden sighed reluctantly. How could he refuse his mother’s request now?
“But, Ma. I really can’t accompany Mom. Aurora has been waiting for a while now.”
“Then, aren’t you concerned about Mom? Aren’t you concerned that Mom will feel embarrassed if she has to lie when people ask why you’re not coming?”
Alden felt more and more conflicted. In this situation, how could he refuse?
“Okay, Alden, accompany Mom inside. But, not for long. Anyway, Alden already has plans to meet Aurora. And Mom knows that a promise is a debt that must be repaid.”
“Yes, Mom,” Alden said reluctantly. “Now, you go inside first.”
Whether he liked it or not, Alden followed his mother’s steps. Meanwhile, he sent a message to Aurora first. Informing her that he would be a little late.
Alden: “Aurora, please wait for a moment. Mom asked me to accompany her into the event venue. After this, I’ll come straight to meet you.”
Aurora: “Sure, take your time. I just arrived too.”
Counting the time, Alden followed Zendaya as she greeted her friends. Approaching Riana, who was celebrating her birthday, then Alden was instructed to give his regards.
“Thank you so much, Alden, for coming. Auntie is happy to see you here.”
“Thank you, Auntie. Once again, happy birthday,” Alden said mechanically. If possible, he wanted to leave immediately after this. Besides, he wasn’t fond of being around and participating in gatherings dominated by those socialite ladies.
“Alden. Finally, we meet here.”
Who else but Regina approached and addressed him. Out of nowhere, the woman appeared and Alden had no choice but to be polite.
“Have you eaten? Let’s eat together, I’ll accompany you around,” Regina offered eagerly, hoping Alden would accept her invitation.
“Thanks. But, I’m still full.”
“Alden…” Zendaya called out, making Alden turn to her. “Accompany Regina for a meal first. It’s impolite to refuse the Hostess’s invitation.”
“But, Mom—”
“After that, you can leave. Later, I’ll ask the driver to pick you up.”
What could Alden do? Because he didn’t want to waste any more time, he reluctantly moved towards the buffet table with Regina. He picked a piece of cake and ate it quickly.
“You seem to be in a hurry. Where are you off to?” Regina inquired.
“I have important matters to attend to.”
Regina nodded, smiling knowingly.
“I guess you’re going to meet Doctor Aurora, right?”
Alden looked at her, displeased. Especially remembering Asher’s account of how Regina intentionally asked Aurora to stay away from him.Têxt belongs to NôvelDrama.Org.
“That’s none of your business.”
“You better eat first. After that, you can go see Doctor Aurora. Waiting for a little while won’t hurt, right?”
Tired of small talk and feeling like he had fulfilled his duties and obligations, Alden chose to ignore Regina and finally left her. He bid farewell to Riana and his mother first, then hurried to catch up with Aurora, whom he believed was still waiting at the restaurant.
Driving at a speed above the average, Alden tried to reach his destination as quickly as possible. He tried to contact Aurora, but her phone seemed to be inactive.
Alden was worried for a moment. Even when he arrived at the restaurant, he hastily searched for the table Aurora had reserved. Unfortunately, when he reached the designated spot, he found no trace of his beloved.