Faux Vows, True Desires

No matter who had influenced Olina's thoughts, when she spoke those heartfelt words to Cecilia, it was deeply touching.

Cecilia paused, looked at Olina, and said, "Auntie, thank you. With your blessings, Owen and I are sure to be happy."

"Auntie, I know my family doesn't come close to the stature of the Martinez family. Please believe that neither I nor my family are after your money. We won't accept any financial help from Owen, not before or after our wedding."

"Our family doesn't need any support. My dad and brother both have jobs. Sure, their salaries might seem modest to a wealthy household, but they're more than sufficient for an average family. After covering our expenses, we still manage to save a bit."

"My little shop is turning a profit now, and I'm expanding the business. As long as I manage it with care, I'm confident it'll continue to thrive. I love Owen for who he is, not for his wealth or status. I can support myself, and the money I earn is more than enough for me, with some to spare."

"Perhaps, in your eyes, I'm not the ideal daughter-in-law, but please give us a chance. If we can't get along after living together, Owen and I can move out. Keeping a distance might prevent any deepening conflicts."

Cecilia believed that once they spent time together, Olina would see her without prejudice, and they could live in harmony.

In Olina's words, they both loved the same man, and neither wanted to make life difficult for him.

Communication could resolve issues, unless someone was completely unreasonable.

The fear was that without giving each other a chance, understanding and communication would be impossible, only deepening the rift.

Love is about mutual giving.

Marriage and family require everyone's effort to flourish.

Olina knew Cecilia had a bright future, if only because she was Lucinda's close friend. Cecilia's prospects were boundless.

Cecilia was willing to give her a chance. If they could get along, maybe they could live in peace.

If not, then distance was the answer.

As long as Cecilia took good care of her son and kept him happy, Olina had no cause for dissatisfaction.

After all, what more could a parent wish for than their child's happiness?

"Cecilia, thank you."

Cecilia smiled, "And thank you, Auntie."

shared smile dissolved

a honeymoon, Liam still whisked her away for a local retreat, a blend of relaxation

her husband were set

was dotted with

held her daughter's hand, repeating

come back to visit you and

but her eyes reddened, and she couldn't help but hug her

as her own daughter. No matter where Lucinda went, Fiona would

you, dad, and my grandparents should

in years and deserve some rest. My brother's company

his

wife had nothing

of miles away, even with the Blue family's jets ready to

mom knows. Don't cry, it's not

fought back tears, gently pushing her daughter away and wiping away her tears. "I have no greater wish than to know that you and your brother are doing well. Visit us when you can, and let us know if you're ever in trouble. Even if we

it all inside; it's not good for your

through her

few paces, then knelt down to thank Vincent

"Lucy, get up, please."

as a baby and raised her with such care,

was returning to her

this felt like losing a

expressed no

losing a daughter; her daughter was simply gaining another

love her. Fiona felt

and his wife helped Lucinda to her

voice was

his daughter's hand for a moment before looking at Stefan. As Stefan stepped

Lucinda's hand in

s

good

don't worry. I will protect Lucy with

Lucinda