Faux Vows, True Desires

The incessant trilling of her phone cut through the silence, and Cecilia hastily pushed Owen away to fish the device out of her pocket. Glancing at the caller ID, she informed him with a half-smile, "It's my mom."

Owen's interest piqued at the mention of his potential mother-in-law, signaling for Cecilia to answer while his ears practically perked up in anticipation, curious about the impending conversation. "Hey, Mom."

"Cecilia, Owen's parents have just dropped by with an armful of gifts. They're being super sweet, talking about wanting to officially ask for your hand on Owen's behalf. Imagine that!"

Cecilia's eyes darted toward Owen, annoyance mixed with surprise. He had kept this monumental development completely under wraps.

Owen, with his heightened senses, overheard the booming voice on the other end of the line. This was news to him too. He hadn't expected his parents to show up on the Yates' doorstep bearing gifts or proposing marriage on his behalf. What had gotten into them?

"I had no clue," Owen whispered, leaning close to Cecilia.

Cecilia's eyes twinkled as she calmly asked her mother, "Did you agree?"

"How could I possibly say yes without talking to you first? Your dad and brother are on their way home, and even Grandpa is here. Do you want to come over?"

With a playful pinch to Owen's arm, Cecilia heard his hushed plea, "Honestly, Cecilia, I was in the dark about this."

Owen was starting to piece things together. His grandparents must have said something after he and Cecilia left last night, spurring his parents into action.

"Mom, are you actually considering Owen as your son-in-law?"

Owen leaned in even closer, eager to gauge his mother-in-law's current opinion of him.

window for you, and that means he's serious. Sure, he had a thing for Ms. Scott, but that's history. Everyone has a past. As

just about the couple; it's about blending two families. If we can't get along, you two will

we'd still be new money without their kind of heritage. And let's not forget Owen's mother, who looked down on us, trying to break you and Owen up. You've finally broken free,

troubles are as old as time. If you decide to marry Owen, you'll have to try and bridge that gap. Not suck up to Owen's mother, but treat her with genuine kindness. People respond to heartfelt gestures. If she still doesn't come around,

Cecilia, is you have to be strong. Elevate yourself, and maybe Owen's mother'll truly accept you. A woman's gotta be her own hero." "Mom, I get it.

this proposal

had expected as much; she wasn't eager to agree either. Who

over. I'll remember what

to snatch the phone and speak to Becca himself. Unfortunately, Cecilia ended the call with a

Owen called softly, a hint of vulnerability in his voice. "Don't

a challenging look. "Your parents show up unannounced, and you claim ignorance. It reeks of compulsion, not sincerity. Besides, I'm not in a rush." She'd have been open to a heartfelt proposal, but

you still have a lot to

"Like what?"

a teasing smile, she said, "You figure it out.

wrap up for the day anyway. I guess I'll head off early. I need

"To join forces."

to tell if you two are archenemies or

"I've never seen rivals

he replied meaningfully, "For someone special, I'm willing to

still harbored hopes of