?Chapter 1607:

While they were conversing, Nate drew near.

His eyes met Corrine’s, and although they said nothing, their silent exchange was profound.

Corrine rose from her seat, brushing off her skirt. “It’s gettingte. I need to…”

“Sure,” Rachel said.

Once settled in the car, Corrine leaned against Nate’s shoulder, looking weary. “Are the Astleys really unhappy with the marriage?”

During dinner, Franco tried to reassure her, primarily out of deference to Nate, making his assurances somewhat suspect.

Corrine was fully aware of the Astley family’s stature; they certainly didn’t regard the Fords as equals.

Even in their decline, the Astleys would not consider an alliance with the Fords. The disparity in their social standings was too vast to ovee quickly; it would take generations to bridge such a divide.

Nate leaned in, nting a gentle kiss on her forehead, his voice resonating deeply. “At this stage, does anyone’s disapproval really change anything?”

Only two weeks remained before Jules and Rachel’s wedding. Invitations had already been sent. Both families had made their announcements. Things had reached a point where no one could back out without consequence.

Canceling the wedding over mere dissatisfaction wasn’t an option. Such a decision would tarnish the Ford family’s reputation, and the Astley family couldn’t bear the repercussions either.

Noticing Corrine’s sudden quiet, Nate took her hand, reassuring her. “Ultimately, it’s their life, and we’re merely spectators.”

Love, after all, is about the individuals involved; its sess or failure depends on theirbined efforts. It remains beyond the influence of outsiders.fn50be Readplete version only at ?ovelFind/fn50be

“So, was today’s meeting with Franco meant to smooth things over for the Fords?” Corrine asked, opening her eyes wide with curiosity.

Nate answered, “Should you need anything in Nelting, Franco is your go-to.” He gently brushed a stray hair from her cheek. “He’ll take care of everything for you.”

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With the conversation heading in this direction, Corrine responded without hesitation, “Got it.”

After a brief pause, she inquired, “Does the Independent Continent use a unique script?”

“Hmm?” Nate’s interest was piqued. “Have you stumbled upon something intriguing?”

Pulling out her phone, Corrine showed him a photo she had zoomed in on. “These symbols were on the hairpin.”

Nate inspected it closely. “These seem to be ancient scripts from the Independent Continent.”

Corrine’s eyes brightened with interest. “So you recognize it?”

“Most of these symbols have been forgotten,” Nate said. “However, my grandma might recognize them.”

Corrine grew thoughtful at his words. “Do you think Evelyn has been steering my path all this while?”

The hairpin, a gift from Evelyn, bore ancient inscriptions known only to her.

Was it mere chance that guided these events?

“Why not discuss it with her when you see her next?” Nate suggested, setting the phone down and drawing Corrine closer. Corrine gave a quiet nod.

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