Goodbye, My Love

Undeterred, Loraine simply scoffed dismissively, “Judie, it seems you’re incapable of speaking the truth!”

She then turned her attention to the villagers, her tone earnest, “When I left the village, it was to join my biological family who had found me. I was not ‘kept’ by any ‘rich man’, nor did I leave due to pregnancy. As for the rumors, they don’t matter to me. What’s crucial is that Judie is misleading you!”

Contrary to Judie’s flamboyant, insincere words, Loraine’s clear and melodious voice resonated with the villagers. Her sincerity shone through, sowing seeds of doubt in their minds.

She continued persuasively, “Judie’s interest in the orphanage’s Land has nothing to do with building an agritainment resort for the collective good. Rather, it’s about her personal profit, aiming to become a local landowner. If she truly cared about everyone and wanted to develop an agritainment resort, she should start with the construction of roads!”

Supporting her, Marco added, “The village roads are indeed in a poor state. City folks may be wealthy, but when they seek a farmhouse experience, they’re after relaxation, not hassle. With the current state of the roads, even your village children have trouble getting to school. Do you really think tourists would come here for leisure?”

Both Loraine’s and Marco’s experience in negotiation and public speaking easily swayed many villagers, especially those with children.

They whispered to each other, “This young man doesn’t seem ordinary. He looks more Like those movie stars my child admires. As a city dweller, what he’s saying must have some truth!”

“That’s right! Our children already struggle to go to school. Each time they return, they Lament about the state of the roads and the poor

Internet connection in the village. They’d rather leave home than stay!”

Judie bristled at the villagers’ discourse, unable to conceal her vexation. “What do you all understand? The allure of a farmhouse experience lies in the authentic rural life. Over-modernizing it defeats the purpose. Loraine, all you do is chatter and ensnare men. Is there anything else you can accomplish?”

Jealousy now added to her resentment as Judie glowered at Loraine.

Marco might have been a smooth talker, but he was undeniably handsome, with a solid build and a commanding aura. Why couldn’t he be hers?

Just then, a bodyguard ran in from outside, his face Losing color upon sighting Marco. He hurriedly whispered to Judie, “Miss, it’s him! The man who chased us off that day!”

The news stoked Judie’s anger, and she fixed a venomous gaze on Loraine and Marco. Sneering coldly, she accused, “Loraine, you’re nothing but a liar! You claimed you don’t have a sugar daddy, then who is this man by your side? My men recognized him from financial newspapers. He’s clearly wealthy! He must be your sugar daddy!”

The villagers’ gaze shifted to Marco, filled with uncertainty.

Even in his casual attire, Marco possessed an aura of exclusivity that marked him as affluent. Could it be that Loraine… really was a mistress?

If so, could her words have any credibility?

As suspicion simmered among the villagers, Marco addressed them calmly,

“I am not her sugar daddy. Loraine is my benefactor.”© 2024 Nôv/el/Dram/a.Org.

His straightforward response left Judie flustered, and she faltered for words. Seizing the moment, Loraine appealed to the villagers.

“Everyone, don’t let Judie mislead you. I’ve been away for years, and it’s true that you may not know me as well anymore, but I grew up in this village. I truly wish to help you all, to prevent you from being tricked and exploited by a fraudster.”

She Looked around and continued, “Earlier, I sent people to the town to learn about the situation, hoping to improve the village roads. But the locals were resistant and rejected my help. Now, I’m here in person, seeking your approval. If you consent, I’ll arrange for a crew to repair the roads, making your Lives and travels easier. We can also collaborate with the government to bring internet connectivity to the village, which will facilitate your business ventures in the future!”