"What?" Shock registered on Lauren's face as she asked.
"I agree with his marriage proposal, Lauren."
"You agreed without even consulting me? Without considering my opinion?"
At that moment, Lauren's emotions surged. The irritation she felt was palpable. It was as if she were a pawn being handed off to whomever her mother pleased.
She didn't know whether to be furious, to cry, or laugh.
"Listen, Lauren, what's your alternative? Should we leave me and your brother with no financial support? Subject ourselves to ridicule from the neighbors? Allow me to spiral into madness trying to resolve your father's enormous debt to our acquaintances and friends?"
In that instant, Lauren's expression darkened further still. Her brows furrowed, her lips pressed into a thin line. Her gaze drift
