No longer a pushover (Noelle and Cedric) novel Chapter 1003

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Noelle hadn't expected Bradley to press on about this. After returning the menu to Marvin, she replied, "These were all arranged by Mr. Greene."

Bradley's expression became even more eager after hearing this. "Mr. Greene surely treats you well, Ms. Liddell. The Liddell siblings are all so exceptional—it's truly enviable."

Donovan heard these words and immediately became somewhat smug. "Noelle is only this accomplished because of our family's upbringing. Otherwise, how could she be where she is today?

"Mr. Hitchcock, you're giving her too much credit. What could an inexperienced young girl possibly achieve?"

Carl looked over at him. "Donovan, there's no need to belittle someone as a way of praising them. Noelle is impressive—plain and simple. There's nothing wrong with admitting that."

Donovan's face stiffened slightly. "I'm just worried certain people might become arrogant. A little reality check never hurts."

Noelle paid no attention to these comments. When she saw the new dishes on the menu, memories of her dining here with Cedric suddenly resurfaced. She hadn't expected the menu to be updated with dishes from her childhood, the flavors nearly identical to what she remembered.

Noelle gripped her utensils tightly, staring at the food on the table, momentarily lost in thought.

Carl put some food on Noelle's plate. "Why aren't you eating? Does it not suit your taste?"

Blake spoke up from the side. "Noelle, I remember these are all childhood dishes you used to love. I didn't realize that person cared enough about you to use these to win you over."

Carl frowned. "But he still deceived Noelle. These small gestures can't cover up what he did before."

Blake nodded. "Carl has a point. Noelle isn't so easily won over. There are so many men in the world—surely she can find someone better than that Greene boy."

Carl looked at Noelle. "Noelle, what are your plans after the lawsuit is over?"

"Continue with school. Nothing else," she replied. She left one sentence unspoken—that she could finally distance herself completely from the Liddells.