The Kiss that Sparked it All

“They’ll only find peace once they’re engaged,” mused Imogen as she sipped her coffee. “And they can truly support each other’s ambitions, don’t you agree?”

Francis nodded. “I know you care about Regina, and you’ve been so devoted all these years. I do have someone in mind for her, a young man named Nolan Harris. He’s nothing like those spoiled rich kids, but just because I approve of him doesn’t mean he’ll take a shine to the Tanner family. It’s a tough situation.”

Regina, overhearing her father’s words, felt a pang of discomfort.

And Imogen couldn’t believe her ears. Francis had set his sights on Nolan before she could even make a move. Her body tensed up, and she accidentally pressed a bit too hard on Francis’s shoulders. “What’s gotten into you?” he winced.

“Sorry, sorry. I was just lost in thought about Nolan’s good looks and got carried away,” Imogen apologized, massaging the spot she had poked.

“I’ve seen Nolan around, and he seems alright. But I can’t shake the feeling that he’s not quite the right fit for Regina,” she said, searching for nonchalance in her voice.

“Oh? Have you seen them together?” Francis asked casually. To him, Nolan was the prime candidate for Regina’s hand, but he worried about the heat of one-sided affection.

“I saw them exchange a few words from a distance once; they didn’t seem cozy. Nolan’s made quite a name for himself at such a young age, and Regina, with her fiery spirit, moved out the moment she got back from abroad. She took up that roving reporter gig, living on her own terms. They’re both headstrong. Pair them up, and sparks are bound to fly.”

“So you think they’re not a match?”

Francis mulled it over with his eyes closed. He knew his daughter was stubborn and strong-willed. Nolan seemed the same. If they didn’t see eye to eye on marriage, it would be a real headache.

“Well, it’s a concern. But Nolan’s family background speaks for itself. There must be a line of suitors for him. If we could ally with the Harris family through marriage…”

His eyes snapped open at the thought. “If we could secure that connection, it would be a boon for the Tanners. We just have to see if he takes to Regina.”

Regina felt a wave of sadness. In the end, she was just another item on the marriage market, her future discussed without her presence. Was this the inescapable fate of being born into such a family?

“It’s a shame, but maybe you’re right; Nolan isn’t suited for Regina.” Belongs to NôvelDrama.Org - All rights reserved.

As Imogen continued her massage, her movements slowed, contemplating how to broach the topic without arousing suspicion.

“Not suitable for Regina, perhaps, but we have another daughter in the house.” Imogen leaned closer, whispering, “Don’t forget what you promised me. To treat my daughter Madeline as your own. With such an opportunity at hand, why not consider her? You know how gentle Madeline is, the perfect match for a man with a strong will.”

Francis pondered. “Madeline’s temperament is indeed fitting, but she’s only nineteen. It’s a bit early to think about marriage. Maybe when she’s in her twenties, a more suitable match will appear. It’s still early to consider it now.”