The change in their relationship made her feel embarrassed; she hadnt been able to call her Mom for a long time.
Bella seemed to notice her hesitation and said generously, Dont worry. Im still adjusting to this new identity myself. Lets just let things happen naturally.
Seeing that Bella didnt care about it, Stella was relieved.
In an apartment, Joann Crawford greeted Lindsay at the door, who was arriving to move in.
She welcomed Lindsay warmly, saying, Youre finally here. Ive been waiting for you.
With a hint of embarrassment, Lindsay replied, Thank you for taking me in. I just returned from abroad and wasnt sure where else to go.
Joann waved dismissively, saying, Why so formal? Remember when we were kids? You saved me from drowning. I owe you big time. This is my chance to repay you. No need for politeness.
Its been a long time. Lets not dwell on it, Lindsay said with a smile.
No way, Joann insisted, helping Lindsay with her luggage. Seeing she only had one bag, Joann asked with a touch of dissatisfaction, Is this all your stuff?
I just moved out from my sister-in-laws place. I didnt want to impose with too many belongings in other peoples place, Lindsay explained.
Joann frowned, thinking Lindsay might have been mistreated, and remarked disapprovingly, Who is she? Why does she have to interfere?
Its not just about her. I just didnt feel comfortable staying there, Lindsay clarified.
The more Joann dwelled on it, the stronger her conviction grew that Stella was to blame for Lindsays troubles. Defending Lindsay, she remarked, Ive heard about your so-called sister-in-law, Matthews wife. She comes from a humble background. Does she think marrying Matthew will change who she is?
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Turning to Lindsay with a hint of ambiguity, Joann added, Besides, youre not related to Matthew by blood. If you had not gone abroad, you might have been his wife.
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.
Alarmed, Lindsay quickly interjected, Please dont say that in front of Stella. Its not true. People might get the wrong idea.
Joann squeezed Lindsays hand sympathetically. Youre too gentle and kind-hearted to be mistreated by someone like Stella.
Lindsay looked timid. Shes been kind to me, taking me in for a few days. Im an outsider, not part of the Clark family. Its understandable.
Changing the subject, Lindsay pulled Joann to sit on the sofa. Lets not dwell on this. Hows the engagement party planning going?
With a radiant smile, Joann replied, Ive delegated everything to my fianc. My only job is to show up on the day.
Though Lindsay smiled, inwardly she felt disdain.
Rumors about Joanns pursuit of Bennett Lowell had already circulated among their circle. Joann went to great lengths, even traveling abroad, to pursue Bennett. If the photos of them in bed hadnt been exposed, he would never have accepted her.
At this moment, Joanns heart brimmed with sweetness, oblivious to the contempt in Lindsays eyes.
Resting her head on Lindsays shoulder, she declared, Youre my closest friend. You must attend my engagement party. My brother will be there too, ready to support you against Stella.
At the mention of her ignorant playboy brother, Felix Crawford, Lindsays disdain for Joann deepened.