“Since Henry has fallen for someone else and wants to pursue something better, I won’t force him. Today, I’m returning the engagement bracelet the Carter family gave me. Let’s call off the wedding.”
Anne slammed her hand on the table in frustration.[]
“That ungrateful little brat! How dare he humiliate us like this? The Carter and Blake families have been close for decades. Our marriage alliance wasn’t some
coincidence.”
“Henry’s aunt married your uncle–look how perfect they are. Equal status, happy marriage. What the hell is Henry thinking?“]
She sighed and softened her tone, trying to comfort me.
0
“Vivian, don’t be upset. When he comes back, I’ll set him straight and make sure he apologizes to you himself.“]
I let out a bitter laugh.
“Mrs. Anne, there’s no need. I won’t marry a man whose heart belongs to someone else. He’s made his choice–why should I keep fighting for him?”
“Mrs.
Anne looked at me with concern.]
“Vivian, your marriage to the Carter family was personally arranged by your grandfather. His dying wish was to bind our families together forever. You understand his intentions. How can we break that promise?“]
A dull ache pierced my heart.]]
Sure, the Blake family has power–but we’re not a large family. My father died young, leaving just me and my sister.[]
Meanwhile, Anne has three sons. Her eldest, Julian, has built a powerful business empire overseas–he’s sharp, strategic, brilliant, and formidable.[]
My grandfather once saved Henry’s father. They were lifelong friends and business partners.]]
This engagement was his way of protecting the Blake family legacy.
Anne patiently comforted me. “Henry’s just lost his way. Once he comes back, he’ll get straightened out. Don’t throw away twenty years of history so easily.“]
“Vivian,” Anne said gently, “I know this breaks your heart. But please give him one more chance.”
“Men are sometimes just like boys. They chase thrills, but once the novelty wears off, they realize who they truly care about. You two grew up together…”
“Mother.”
A cold, deep voice cut her off.
“Henry isn’t a child anymore. He’s grown up. He needs to take responsibility for everything he’s done.”
With those words, a tall, imposing figure walked in.]
I stood up, whispering:
“Julian.”
Anne’s face lit up with surprise.
“Julian, when did you get back? Why didn’t you tell us?”
Julian’s stern expression softened slightly.
“Closed a deal in New York today. Finished early, so I thought I’d stop by to see you.”
Then Julian’s gaze fell on me.
e.]
“You want to break your engagement with Henry?”
I lowered my head and explained quietly:
“I’m not the one breaking it. He fell in love with someone else.“]]
Julian–Henry’s older brother, eight years my senior. He’s always been too serious, always intimidating me.
He’s tall with broad shoulders, a strong jawline, and a face like stone–cold as ice.[]
“You’re certain you won’t marry him, even if he changes his mind?”
I took a deep breath, mustering the courage to lift my head.[]
“Why would I marry someone so fickle?“]
“Life is long. If he can betray me once, he can do it again.“]
“A man who’s already been tainted is garbage in my eyes–and I’m not the type of woman who digs through trash for a husband.“]]
Julian let out a short laugh.[]
“Good. I like a woman with standards and backbone.”
Good.
Anne grew more anxious.
“Vivian, don’t be impulsive. Give Henry another chance.”
She turned to Julian in frustration.]
:“0
“And you–stop laughing! Talk some sense into Vivian. She listens to you more than anyone.“]
Julian’s smile vanished, replaced by his usual seriousness.
“Vivian,” he said calmly, “marry me instead. I’ll take you as my wife.
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