Chapter 361
My heart skipped a beat, and I instinctively turned to look at Soren.
“Grandpa, 1”
Soren had just started speaking when William interrupted, I’m trying to have a chat with Miss Jones, young man. Why are you interrupting? What could I possibly do to your lifesaver, hmm?”
Although William’s tone remained wann, his repeated reference to me as “Miss Jones” made something clear.
I had failed his test.
What he was trying to say was that, as much as I had saved Soren’s life, the facts remained. I was from the Jones family, a family of such lowly status that we could never hope to be on par with or approach the Kenways.
He didn’t say it outright, but I understood.
“That’s right. My father made some bad business decisions and was sentenced to prison. But he’s now appealed for medical parole due to health issues,” I answered truthfully since there was no point in hiding it.
William nodded. “I heard it was you who turned him in?”
“Yes, it was.”
A flicker of appreciation passed through William’s eyes. “A brave and resolute decision–traits you’ve always had.
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“Thank you for the compliment.”
He sighed, his gaze distant. “I’m glad Soren found you to repay his debts.”
What did that mean? Was he implying that Soren was only with me to repay some childhood debt?
I turned to look at Soren, who met my gaze before saying, “Grandpa, I’m with Taylor because I love her. It has nothing to do with any debt that needs repaying.
“Of course, I only got to know her because she saved my life, but I didn’t choose to be with her out of gratitude.”
A warm sensation spread through me, and I found myself staring at him.
No matter what happened between us in the end, the fact that he was willing to defend me and our relationship in front of his family touched me deeply.
I would never regret being with him.
William gave a small nod before picking up his cup again, “I understand. You should put yourself out there and experience things while you’re still young.
“Enjoy being in love when you find a woman you love. That way, you’ll be ready to settle down when the time comes. Wouldn’t you agree, Miss Jones?”
A sharp pang coursed through me, like countless tiny needles pricking my skin.
I could read between the lines. He was trying to say we could find someone we loved, enter a relationship, and indulge in our personal desires. However, marriage should be arranged by our families.
“Yes, sir,” I replied with a smile, though it felt forced.
Soren suddenly stood. “Grandpa, the reason I brought Taylor here today is to tell you that I want to marry her. I’ve
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Chapter 361
waited for her for years, and I once thought I’d never have the chance again, but now-”
William interrupted, “You’re still young, Soren. Your career’s just beginning. Why rush into marriage?”
“Grandpa, I’m almost…”
Soren was eager to fight for us, but my heart tightened.
I quickly stood and grasped his arm, giving him a small shake of my head.
William was an old man who couldn’t handle too much excitement.
Unfortunately, Soren refused to listen. He pulled my hand from his arm and clasped it tightly in his, making sure his grandfather could see.
He was silently declaring his determination for us to be together.
I subtly twisted my hand, trying to break free, but his grip was firm.
William’s sharp gaze rested on our joined hands.
I couldn’t tell what was going through his mind as he said, “There’s a reason I told you to focus on your career first. Take your older brother, for example. He’s two years older than you and has devoted himself so fully to serving the country that he’s rarely even home to visit.
“On the other hand, you have been out in the world, dazzled by its temptations. I understand that. But marriage is still a topic for another day.”
