Chapter 18

This time, Edward didn't take the car; instead, he opted for a bicycle. Melanie sat sideways on the back, hesitating for a moment before lightly gripping his shirt for balance. The neighborhood was lively at this time of day. While most of the younger folks were at work, the older men and women gathered under the trees, chatting and gossiping. When they saw Edward riding his bicycle with his new wife on the back, they couldn't help but watch. Once the couple was out of sight, the murmurs began. "It's a shame that Edward married a woman like that." "Isn't that the truth? It's quite the scandal." One older woman chimed in with exaggerated expressions while eating almonds. "You wouldn't believe it, but I saw Gabrielle yesterday. The poor girl was crying her heart out. She looked so pitiful." At the mention of Gabrielle, the group became even more animated. Everyone knew she had been chasing after Edward for years, only for him to suddenly marry someone else. It was hard for anyone t