Noelle nodded obediently. "Alright. Go on in."
Edric glanced at Noelle and Kate, then said, "You two should head home early. I'll have the driver take you back first. Once the birthday party wraps up, I'll come home and spend time with you."
He made the arrangements with careful thought.
Noelle shook her head. "We don't want to go home. Even if your dad won't acknowledge Kate, she's always respected him in her heart. If he won't let her in, then we'll just stay out here. It still counts as celebrating his birthday. When it's over, we'll all go home together."
Edric froze for a second, clearly moved. He looked at her with softened eyes. "Don't worry. I'll never let you down."
"I know. I'd give anything for you, even die for you."
"Hey, don't say things like that," Edric cut her off. "We're going to stay together for the rest of our lives."
"Yes. Go on, don't keep them waiting," Noelle said with a soft smile.
"Alright. I'll go in now."
Edric hesitated before finally turning and walking away.
The moment he disappeared from sight, the gentle smile on Noelle's face vanished. She leaned back into her seat, her expression going flat.
Kate wasn't in the mood to watch her parents act all loving. All she could think about was being shut out of the party. She frowned.
"Mom, Dad's useless. I got all dressed up tonight, and he still couldn't convince Grandpa to let me in."
Noelle's face turned cold. "That's enough. Don't ever speak badly about your father again."
Kate rolled her eyes. "Why not? He's not even here."
Noelle saw her, too.
Tonight's spotlight belonged to Ivy.
She stepped out in a flowing evening gown, instantly drawing every eye. Her custom dress fit perfectly. Her long hair was swept up, with two pearl earrings resting at her ears. Just standing there, she looked untouchable, like something out of reach.
A flicker of resentment crossed Noelle's eyes.
In terms of brains and strategy, Tabitha had never been her match. Noelle had nearly crushed her more than once.
Yet, Tabitha had a daughter like Ivy. Ivy had the name, the talent, the looks, and the kind of luck you can't teach. She married Nathan, and now she was already expecting.
And then, there was Kate. She didn't even come close.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Heartbreak Prescription (by Glazed Snow)
Probably THE best story I've read in this genre. The characters are well written, as well as developed properly, you can truly glimpse their unique personalities through their interactions and reactions, and most of all, excellent humour!...