Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

"Mrs. Collins really knows how to make an entrance, doesn't she? Scolding a young girl like that, quite the talent."

Suddenly, a deep voice echoed from the doorway, causing Mrs. Collins to retort. Her expression soured as she turned to see who it was.

The rest of the room followed her gaze.

Fiona's eyebrows shot up at the familiar voice, and she looked up as well.

A middle-aged man strode in briskly, moving so fast it seemed like he was gliding.

And why wouldn't he be in a hurry?

After the scandalous rumors about him and Flora, he needed to set things straight before word spread around Maple Grove. If he didn't, he'd be in serious trouble. Forget about the Irving and Stonnell families, even his own boss could make life difficult for him!

"Mr. Welch?!"

Everyone in the room was taken aback at the sight of him, including Mrs. Collins.

They all knew who he was.

The manager of the Golden Hotel.

The Golden Hotel had been a staple in Cedarvale for over twenty years, renowned and backed by significant influence.

Everyone gave it the respect it commanded.

Even as just the manager, Mr. Welch was someone most people treated with deference.

What was Mr. Welch, usually swamped with work, doing here?

"Mr. Welch, what brings you here?" Mrs. Collins's earlier confidence faded. Her family wasn't particularly wealthy, and they certainly didn't want to cross the Golden Hotel.

She wondered if Mr. Welch's child attended Westbrook High School too, and if he had come after seeing those photos on the forum.noveldrama

Trying to be pleasant, she smiled at Mr. Welch. His gaze was cold and direct as he looked at her. "Mrs. Collins, based on what I heard from outside, I finally understand why Mr. Liu prefers the company of other women rather than coming home to you." "You!"

Mrs. Collins's face turned red at the insinuation.

Mr. Welch didn't waste any more words on her and made his way across the room, stopping in front of Fiona.

"Miss..."

A quick look from Fiona made him pause.

He swallowed the initial greeting.

"Miss Fiona, I'm really sorry. Who would've thought a simple chat with you would get photographed and lead to such a misunderstanding?"

His apology was sincere, his voice raised just enough for everyone in the office to hear.

Everyone was stunned!

Was Mr. Welch saying the man in the photos was him?!

Known for his devotion to his wife, Mr. Welch had been married for nearly a decade, always showing his affection. Out of all the men who might stray, he was the least likely!

"This morning, Miss Fiona and her classmates came to the Golden Hotel for lunch. I found Miss Fiona, despite her young age, to be very insightful, and ended up chatting with her a bit longer than expected. I had no idea someone would take advantage of that."

Mr. Welch's tone turned stern.

Whoever took that photo had bad intentions!

Miss Fiona had just joined the class and already had enemies!

"Exactly! We all went for lunch together this morning, the entire class nine!" Robert chimed in quickly.

Nash, arms crossed and looking grumpy, nodded in agreement.

So, that was the real story...

It was a bit embarrassing now.

The parents exchanged glances, all trusting Mr. Welch. Whatever he said was taken as the truth, his integrity and honor beyond question, making it impossible for him to be involved in such a scandal.