As soon as we returned to Arcania, my mother started crying when she caught sight of me.
“You’ve been away for years, and now you finally decide to come home!”
I hugged her tightly and gently comforted her, “I’m sorry Mom. I was immature before. But I’m back now, and I’ve even brought home your future son–in–law.”
At the mention of a son–in–law, my mother’s expression shifted from gloomy to bright, and she proudly patted her chest.
“See? My judgment was right. You thought he was bad before, but now you think he’s great.”
I saluted her playfully. “The older folk really know best. I’m impressed,” I teased.
We then went to meet with Quentin’s parents.
To my surprise, they were very warm and did not harbor any resentment over my previous resistance to marriage.
Quentin’s mother took me to her jewelry cabinet and waved her hand.
“This is my empire. Take whatever you like.”
Large pink diamonds, imperial green jade, heavenly pearls… it was a magnificent sight to behold.
I remember the first time I visited Justin’s family.
His mother had said I was poor and that marrying into their family was a blessing from heaven, so there was no need for jewelry for the wedding.
Quentin and I had our engagement ceremony on the 15th, which also happened to be Alice’s ball.
What surprised me was that Collin came to my engagement ceremony with his girlfriend.
“You’re the only one from Marina Sands. Now do you believe me?” I asked.
“Hehe, I’ve always thought you had a different aura from everyone else. Now, I see, you aren’t ordinary!
“Pleased to make your acquaintance Mr. and Mrs. Langley, Collin teased.
Quentin was amused by Collin’s reference to my new status and readily agreed with him.
“Of course! Viola’s friends are my friends too.
Throughout the ceremony, Quentin appeared more excited than I was, and often I caught him blinking hard to
hold back tears.
When he put the bespoke ring on my finger, he looked at me and said gently but firmly, “When we were children, you protected me. Now, it’s my turn to protect you.
The entire room erupted in applause.
It felt wonderful to be surrounded by the blessings of everyone who witnessed our marriage.
Later, Collin quietly pulled me aside.
“Justin called just now. He saw the news of your engagement on TV. He’s on his way here, and when he arrives, he’s bound to cause trouble.”
I glanced around at the bodyguards nearby, feeling reassured by the sense of security they provided.
1737
Chapter 8
+25 BONUS
“You are the daughter of the prestigious Smiths in Arcania Don’t be kidding, Viola. How dare you get engaged to another man? Come back with me!” someone yelled.
Justin barged in, followed by Alice, still in her dance attire.
“Why did you get engaged during my ball? You made Justin rush here in the middle of the event! Are you trying to ruin things for me? You even stole my fiancé! He’s mine!” Alice screamed.
The bodyguards quickly surrounded the two of them, making sure they couldn’t get any closer.
Thankfully, the engagement ceremony was nearly over, and most guests had already left, so it didn’t turn into a spectacle for anyone else to witness.
I was so annoyed by their antics that I nearly laughed.
“What are you doing, Justin? Why aren’t you enjoying your ball and instead causing a scene at my engagement party?
“And Alice? I’m at my engagement party, and you were dancing at your ball. How am I interfering with you?
