?Chapter 1194:

    Freya could sense it was something odd. “What did she say?”

    “She told me that if my dad and you both proposed at the same time, she wouldn’t even hesitate. She’d choose you.”

    “She’s only joking.”

    “Not this time.”

    “She’s just being polite because I’m not family.”

    “If you don’t count as family, then my dad must be a stranger.” A yful note slipped into Ellis’s voice. His deep tone almost made her smile. “So, are you sure you’re ready for my mom to move in with you?”

    Nothing came out of Freya’s mouth. After everything, he was only trying to get her to refuse Kendra’s visit.

    “Hey, Mina.” A knock interrupted her thoughts. Ethel’s voice came from the hallway. “Three brands just sent their summer collections. Want to see if anything catches your eye?”

    Quickly, Freya seized the opportunity to dodge the conversation. “She needs me. I’ll talk to youter.”

    The call ended, and she opened her door.

    A step into the hallway allowed her to see several shopping bags in the living room.

    “Did I break up your call with Ellis?” Ethel’s teasing eyes sparkled.

    “That’s not it.” Relief crept into Freya’s answer. “Pick out a few for yourself. I won’t be needing many.”

    Rarely did she have events to attend, and she kept to herself most of the time, so there was no point in collecting new outfits. Ethel nodded.

    Freya sifted through the clothes alongside her.

    “Yeah?”

    “I want to marry Jarrett.” Lowering her voice, Ethel checked that their dad was nowhere nearby before she whispered, “Do you think Dad will be okay with it?”

    Freya stopped sorting, the warmth that usually filled her eyes fading. An uneasy feeling made Ethel shrink back. The silence wasn’t encouraging.

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    “Are you absolutely certain?” Freya’s voice grew firmer, not as gentle as before. While dating brought happiness, marriage meant a promise that couldn’t be taken lightly.

    “I’ve thought long and hard about this. Things with Jarrett are solid. Besides, I’ll be starting my master’s soon.” Ethel’s voice was steady. “I figured it made sense to settle down. But don’t worry, I’m not rushing to have kids.”

    “That doesn’t sit right with me,” Freya said after a long pause, thinking it over.

    A hint of frustration colored Ethel’s voice. “Howe?”

    Freya pressed her lips together, taking her time. “You’re just twenty. That’s too early for something this big. If marrying Jarrett is what you really want, promise me you’ll decide when your head is clear.”

    She only had Ethel for a sister and wanted the best for her. “If you’re still sure after that, I won’t stand in your way.”

    “Okay,” Ethel said.

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