Chapter 667

Gloria's senility was evident in her old age; she dwelt on the past. She sniffed coldly. "Yes, I need to take good care of my health and do my best to support Joe." She had lived with a clear conscience, but her failure lay in raising Edwin, who had gone astray. Thinking of his actions over the past twenty years, a heavy stone pressed on her chest, leaving her stifled.

Edwin couldn't stand to stay longer. "Mom, I have much to handle now that I'm back in Jipsburg. I'll leave now. If anything comes up, have Edgar contact me, and I'll come right over."

"Go ahead," Gloria said, her expression darkening. She didn't insist; Edwin's presence made no difference. As he opened the door, he looked visibly upset.

The door swung open, revealing Molly. Gloria had disliked her from their first meeting, convinced she had bewitched Edwin. Over twenty years had passed, yet Molly seemed even more reserved. Molly noticed Gloria's gaze, smiling politely and nodding. The disdain in Gloria's eyes didn't surprise her; she was indifferent to it. Gloria could do as she pleased; Edwin couldn't live without Molly.

Years of Molly's influence had faded Edwin's feelings for his mother. Their maternal bond had nearly vanished, its remnants insignificant.

Edgar arrived at the door opportunely, aware of Gloria's aversion to Molly. One could hardly blame her; Molly's actions from over twenty years prior remained repulsive.

Once the door closed, Gloria coughed.

"Here, have some water, Mrs. Martin Senior," Edgar offered, quickly providing a glass.

Gloria accepted and sipped slowly. Calming down, she said, "You saw Edwin's attitude. He won't let this go easily. He insists on meddling in Joe's affairs, and my words mean nothing to him. As for Molly, she clearly wants to deepen the rift between father and son."

Edgar listened with resignation. "Mrs. Martin Senior, you once said each Martin family member has their own destiny. Now that Mr. Joe is in charge, others can't sway his decisions. As for Mrs. Martin, she is indeed clever. Mr. Edwin will eventually understand and step back. What's most important is that you don't let these issues burden you."

Gloria sighed. "I know. You're right." But knowing and doing were different.

Natalie carried groceries from the market near her hotel. She had arrived in Cuvale City that morning. Austin had two events there over the next few days. Before arriving yesterday, she'd researched a popular market. After checking into the hotel, she shopped while Austin and Hank prepared for the events. She intended to have everything ready before Austin's makeup session so he could eat.

Just as she was about to use her key card, her phone rang.