Unbroken by Secrets

chapter five - unwelcomed heiress

Skylar awoke the next morning with a sense of quiet disbelief. As sunlight filtered through the curtains, she stared at her engagement ring, its brilliance catching the early morning light. She turned it over in her fingers, as if seeing it for the first time, still trying to wrap her mind around the events of the previous night. It had all happened so fast—Xavier’s proposal, the public declaration, her own acceptance. It was everything she could’ve imagined, and yet, the reality of it was slowly beginning to set in.

She could hear the quiet hum of activity downstairs—her brothers laughing, her father’s low voice as he spoke on the phone. It was a normal Sunday morning, but nothing about today felt ordinary to her.

Skylar reached for her phone on the nightstand and saw several notifications from social media. The engagement had gone viral overnight—pictures, videos, and articles were already circulating online, all talking about how Xavier had proposed to the famous model Skylar Rayner at Heaven’s Dove Lounge. Fans were excited, critics were curious, and tabloids were busy trying to unearth every possible detail about their relationship.

A knot formed in her stomach as she scrolled through the comments. While most of the reactions were positive, praising their love story and celebrating the engagement, there were others—more cynical remarks, questioning the authenticity of their relationship. A few people speculated that the proposal was nothing more than a publicity stunt, a move to further boost Skylar’s already rising fame.

It didn’t take long before she felt overwhelmed. The reality of being in the spotlight—of having every moment scrutinized—had always been part of her life, but now it felt more intense. She wondered if Xavier had seen any of this and how he was feeling about the sudden attention.

Her phone buzzed with a new message from Xavier.

Xavier: Good morning, fiancée. How are you feeling?

Skylar couldn’t help but smile at the word "fiancée." It still felt surreal to think of herself in that way. She quickly typed a response.

Skylar: Morning. I’m feeling good, just overwhelmed. It’s a lot to take in.

Xavier: I know. I’ve been seeing all the online reactions. Don’t let it get to you. They don’t matter.

Skylar sighed, her fingers hesitating over the screen. How could it not get to her? She was a model—her life had always been public. But now, with the engagement, the attention had reached a new level. She just hoped that meeting Xavier’s parents wouldn’t add to her worries.

Skylar: It’s just… a lot of pressure, especially with meeting your parents.

Xavier: Hey, don’t worry about them. They’ll love you, just like I do. You’re more than enough, Skylar. Trust me.

She read his message a few times, letting the reassurance sink in. She trusted him, but the gnawing doubt still clung to her. Would his family really accept her, or would they see her the way the tabloids did—just another model caught up in the glamorous world of fashion, someone who couldn’t possibly be serious enough for their son? Or possibly someone who couldn't fit into their family's way of life.

They weren't wrong actually, she loved her career as a model not minding the odds that came with it. Marriage and love wasn't really her thing but now, she is doing it, she has finally decided to marry Xavier at least, her father and brothers would stop singing the marriage hymn to her.

She layed back in bed, preparing her mind for the journey ahead—The Walter's( Xavier's family). She had packed her bags and their flight was booked already.

________________________________________________

The journey from the airport to Xavier's parents' house wasn't long, but for Skylar, every minute felt like an eternity. The luxury sedan sped down the well-paved roads, surrounded by manicured trees that lined the wealthy suburban neighborhood. Skylar's stomach tightened with each passing moment, her palms growing damp despite the cool air conditioning of the car.

Xavier glanced at her, sensing her unease. "You okay?" he asked softly, his hand reaching out to squeeze hers.

Skylar forced a smile. "Yeah, just... nervous, I guess."

"They'll love you," he said, as if his words alone could erase all her fears.

By 11:35 a.m., the sleek car pulled up in front of an expansive mansion that loomed like an old-world fortress. Its grand facade of limestone and tall, arched windows gave the impression of prestige—of a family that had built itself on old money, tradition, and a legacy that spanned generations. Skylar’s breath hitched at the sight of it. This was Xavier’s world, a world of untouchable class and refinement, a world where she felt like an outsider, despite how much Xavier insisted she belonged.

The large oak doors swung open, and there they were—Xavier’s family, standing on the wide steps of the mansion, waiting. His mother, Mrs. Shalom, a regal woman with silver-streaked hair pulled into a tight chignon, stood at the center, her posture straight and dignified. Beside her, his father, Mr. Walter, towered with an imposing presence, his stern expression revealing little warmth. Behind them were his siblings: Seneca, Oswald, and Sherlock, each one dressed in expensive, well-tailored outfits, their gazes a mixture of curiosity and judgment.

Xavier stepped out first, embracing his family with the casualness of someone who had always belonged. Skylar, on the other hand, hesitated, her feet feeling as though they were glued to the ground. She had never felt so out of place.

"Mom, Dad," Xavier said, turning to his parents with a wide grin, "this is Skylar, my fiancée, and the woman I want to marry." His voice was filled with pride, but Skylar couldn't shake the feeling that the announcement was met with cold resistance.

Skylar lowered her head respectfully, forcing a polite smile as she bowed slightly, murmuring, "It's a pleasure to meet you all."

Mrs. Shalom’s eyes lingered on Skylar, taking in her form from head to toe, her gaze sharp and probing, as though she were examining something fragile—something breakable. "Is she the girl you want to marry?" Mrs. Shalom asked, her voice calm but edged with disbelief.

"Yes, Mom," Xavier answered, standing firm.

A silent exchange passed between Xavier’s parents before Mrs. Shalom turned her head slightly. "Ira, please take their bags upstairs," she instructed the young house help standing nervously by the door. Without a word, Ira scurried forward, taking the luggage from the trunk.

"Xavier," Mr. Walter’s voice boomed, commanding attention, "take her to your room and come back downstairs. We need to talk." His tone brooked no argument, his eyes flicking briefly toward Skylar before settling back on his son.

"Dad, can't we talk later?" Xavier asked, a note of exhaustion creeping into his voice. "I'm really tired and could use some rest."

"He’s right, Walter," Mrs. Shalom said with a touch of softness. "Let him eat something and rest first. We’ll talk later."

Mr. Walter’s lips pressed into a thin line before he relented. "Fine," he said gruffly. "After dinner."

The family dispersed, but not without Nigel, Xavier’s childhood friend, being mentioned in passing by Mrs. Shalom. "Nigel mentioned he's arriving today," she said, almost in passing. "He’s already landed. I’m sure he’ll want to see you both later. For now, make yourselves comfortable."

---

Xavier’s room was on the top floor, a space that exuded the same wealth and class as the rest of the mansion. The plush carpeting muffled their steps as they entered the spacious bedroom, complete with an attached bathroom and a massive balcony that overlooked the sprawling gardens below. The scent of expensive cologne and polished wood filled the air. Skylar stood awkwardly by the doorway, her arms wrapped tightly around herself, her thoughts racing.

Xavier, sensing her discomfort, reclined on the bed, patting the space beside him. "Come on, relax. It’s just family."

Skylar let out a sharp breath, her frustration bubbling to the surface. "Just family? Did you see the way they looked at me?" she asked, her voice rising. "They already hate me, Xavier. It was written all over their faces."

Xavier frowned, shifting his position to look at her. "Sky, they didn’t say anything. You’re reading too much into it."

"Am I?" Skylar snapped, pacing across the room. "Your father barely acknowledged me, and your mother... God, the way she looked at me, like I was some sort of charity case. And then there’s Nigel. He’s going to hate me even more than he already does. I can feel it."

Xavier sighed deeply, running a hand through his dark hair. "Nigel’s always been protective of me. He’ll come around once he gets to know you."

Skylar crossed her arms, her expression hardening. "Will he? Or will he just add fuel to the fire? I’m not some disposable plaything, Xavier. First, your friends treat me like trash, and now your family. What did I ever do to deserve this?"

Xavier stood, walking over to her. "Hey," he said softly, cupping her face in his hands, "you haven’t done anything wrong. I love you, Skylar. That’s all that matters. My family will come around eventually. They just need time."

Before Skylar could respond, the door swung open, and Ira entered, her face flushed with embarrassment. "I’m sorry, sir. I brought food and clean towels. Mrs. Shalom sent them."

Skylar’s eyes narrowed as she whirled on the girl. "Do you not know how to knock?" she barked, her patience fraying.

Ira flinched, bowing repeatedly. "I’m sorry, ma’am. It won’t happen again, I promise."

Skylar huffed. "It better not. It’s basic courtesy to knock before you enter someone’s room."

Xavier stepped forward, placing a hand on Skylar’s shoulder. "Hey, take it easy. Ira’s just doing her job. She’s not the enemy here."

"I know," Skylar muttered, her frustration giving way to guilt. "I just... I can’t help it."

Xavier gave her a gentle smile. "I know. Just... don’t take it out on Ira, okay?"

Skylar sighed, nodding as she watched Ira finish placing the items in the room before hurrying out, clearly relieved to be out of Skylar’s line of fire.

---

After dinner, the family gathered in the lavish living room, the atmosphere tense as Xavier joined them. Skylar had opted to stay upstairs, still too shaken to face them again. Nigel had arrived, sitting comfortably beside Mr. Walter, his presence only heightening the tension in the room.

"Xavier," Mr. Walter began, his voice carrying the weight of authority, "I need to ask you something."

Xavier swallowed, bracing himself. "Go ahead."

Mr. Walter’s eyes narrowed slightly. "Were you serious when you introduced that girl as the woman you intend to marry?"

Xavier squared his shoulders, his expression determined. "Yes, I was."

There was a heavy pause before Mr. Walter spoke again, his voice tight with disapproval. "Do you understand the gravity of what you’re saying? Bringing someone like her into this family—do you even comprehend the consequences?"

"Dad, I don’t understand why this is such an issue," Xavier said, trying to keep his frustration in check. "You and Mom have been asking me to settle down. Now that I’ve found someone I love, you’re against it."

"Someone you love?" Mr. Walter scoffed. "What qualities could she possibly have that you think make her suitable to join this family?"

"She’s kind, ambitious, intelligent—"

"A harlot," Mr. Walter interrupted coldly, his words slicing through the air. "You’re bringing a harlot into this family."

Xavier's jaw clenched, and the room fell into a stunned silence. He could feel the weight of every gaze on him, waiting for his response.

"Dad, with all due respect, she’s not a harlot," Xavier said through gritted teeth. "She’s a model. And even if she were—she hasn’t slept with you, has she?"

The room erupted. Mr. Walter shot to his feet, his face flushed with anger, while Seneca, Oswald, and Sherlock stared in shock. Even Nigel looked taken aback.

"Watch your mouth!" Seneca yelled, jumping to her feet. "How dare you speak to Dad like that!"

Xavier stood his ground, meeting his sister’s glare head-on. "I’m not going to let any of you degrade her like that. She’s my fiancée, and she deserves your respect."

The conversation only spiraled further from there, each family member piling on their own objections, picking apart Skylar’s profession, Skylar's appearance, her background, everything they could find fault with. It was a relentless barrage of criticism.

Sherlock leaned forward, his eyes cold. "You said she’s a model, right? A woman who exposes her body for the world to see—how is that respectable? What kind of dignity does she bring to this family?"

"Exactly," Oswald chimed in, crossing his arms. "A woman who poses in lingerie and underwear for money... you can't seriously think she’s suitable to be your wife."

Xavier felt a surge of anger rise in his chest. He was used to his brothers being judgmental, but this was different. This was about the woman he loved. "She’s a top model. That’s her career. Just because you don’t understand it doesn’t mean you have the right to degrade her."

"And did you at least tell her to dress appropriately before bringing her here?" Mrs. Shalom asked, her eyes narrowing. "We are Africans, Xavier. We have traditions, values, and expectations. The outfit she wore today—it was disrespectful. It lacked any sense of decency."

Xavier’s frustration mounted. He rubbed his face, trying to keep his voice steady. "There was nothing wrong with her outfit. I picked it because I liked it. She wanted to wear something more formal, but I wanted her to feel comfortable. This is not about her clothes, and you know it."

"And what about the tattoo on her wrist?" Seneca asked, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Did you pick that for her too? Or was that just another sign of her rebellious, undisciplined nature?"

Laughter rippled through the room at Seneca’s comment, except for Xavier, who stood silent and fuming.

Nigel, who had remained quiet throughout most of the conversation, finally spoke up. "Look, man, I know you think you love her, but this isn’t just about you. It’s about your family’s reputation. You’ve worked hard to build a career and a name for yourself, and she’s going to drag all of that down with her lifestyle. She shops all the time, goes clubbing—do you think she’ll stop that when you marry her? She’ll drain you dry."

"That's enough!" Xavier’s voice was sharp, slicing through the room. He was done with the accusations, the endless criticisms. "I’ve listened to all of you long enough, and I’ve had enough. This is my life. My decision. You don’t get to choose who I love or who I marry."

"Your decision?" Mr. Walter said, his voice dangerously low. "You're behaving like a child who doesn't know what’s best for him. Do you even hear yourself?"

Xavier clenched his fists. "Nothing is wrong with me, Dad. And nothing is wrong with Skylar. You all just refuse to see her for who she really is because you’ve already decided you don’t want her in this family. Well, too bad. I am marrying her, whether you like it or not."

"You don’t speak to your elders that way!" Nigel barked, standing from his chair. His voice was filled with anger and disbelief at Xavier’s defiance.

Xavier whirled around, his eyes burning. "And I’m speaking to my family, not you! So stay out of it."

Nigel’s mouth dropped open, clearly not expecting such a sharp retort. "Imagine that," Seneca cut in, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "She’s not even a part of the family yet, and you’re already turning against the people who’ve stood by you all your life."

"Nobody chose your partners for you," Xavier shot back, his voice low but dangerous. "So don’t try to choose mine."

Seneca smirked, crossing her arms. "That’s because we made the right choices. You, clearly, have not."

Xavier laughed bitterly. "Shall we talk about your choices? Oswald, your wife is a Hollywood actress who takes roles that strip her down to her underwear. Is that somehow different? Or Sherlock—didn’t you meet your wife when she was a stripper? Did that disqualify her from becoming a part of this family?"

The silence that followed was icy. Both brothers glared at Xavier, but neither could muster a defense. The truth stung.

"This is madness," Mr. Walter finally said, his voice brimming with disbelief. "Seneca, go and bring that girl here."

"With pleasure," Seneca replied, striding out of the room, eager to get Skylar.

The room fell into a tense quiet, everyone waiting for Skylar to arrive. Moments later, Skylar entered, dressed in a pair of Xavier’s shorts and one of his polo shirts, her face pale but composed. She hesitated in the doorway, clearly sensing the tension, but walked forward, her head held high.

"You called for me, sir?" Skylar asked, addressing Mr. Walter with a polite, measured tone.

"Yes," he replied coldly, gesturing for her to sit. "We need to talk."

She took a seat beside Xavier, who reached for her hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "How is your family?" Mr. Walter asked, his tone formal.

"They’re fine, thank you," Skylar responded quietly, her voice steady despite the tension that hung heavy in the air.

Mr. Walter leaned forward, his expression unreadable. "Tell me more about yourself."

Skylar took a breath, then spoke clearly. "My name is Skylar Grey. My father is Mr. Rayner Grey, and I have two younger brothers, Hasil and Owen. I’m twenty-four years old, and I’m a model by profession."

"A model," Mrs. Shalom said with disdain, her eyes narrowing. "Do you really believe that’s a respectable career?"

Skylar held her gaze, refusing to be intimidated. "I love what I do. Modeling is a part of who I am, and it’s how I support my family. I understand that it might not be what you expect, but it’s a career like any other."

"There’s no need to sugarcoat it," Mrs. Shalom said sharply. "You cannot marry my son, and that’s final."

Skylar felt her heart drop, but she forced herself to remain calm. "Ma'am, I don’t understand. What have I done wrong?"

Seneca leaned forward, her eyes cold. "You don’t fit into this family, Skylar. Your profession, your lifestyle—it goes against everything we stand for."

Skylar’s lips trembled, but she held her ground. "I respect your family, but I don’t think my career defines my worth. I’m more than my job. I’m a person with feelings, dreams, and ambitions, just like any of you."

Seneca scoffed. "You can say whatever you want, but it doesn’t change the fact that you are not good enough for my brother."

"I’ve made my decision," Xavier said firmly, standing up and pulling Skylar with him. "I will marry Skylar, whether you approve or not."

"You’re making a huge mistake, Xavier," Mr. Walter warned, his voice hard. "When this marriage falls apart, don't come crying to me."

Xavier shook his head, his grip on Skylar tightening. "If that day ever comes, I’ll handle it. But it’s my life, not yours."

With that, Xavier and Skylar left the room, leaving the family behind, stunned into silence.

---

Later that night, as the household settled into an uneasy calm, Mr. Walter and Mrs. Shalom lay in bed, the tension from the evening still hanging between them.

"Xavier is determined to ruin his life," Mr. Walter grumbled as he turned off the bedside lamp. "When it all falls apart, he’ll realize we were right."

Mrs. Shalom sighed deeply. "If marrying her makes him happy, then we have to let him. He’s a grown man now, and he’ll have to live with his choices. All we can do is hope for the best."

---

The next afternoon, after lunch, Mr. Walter called another family meeting. This time, the air was less charged, but still filled with tension as the family gathered once again in the living room.

"I’ve thought long and hard about this," Mr. Walter began, his voice solemn. "After careful consideration, your mother and I have reached a decision."

Everyone sat in silence, waiting for his verdict.

"We’ve decided to allow Xavier to marry Skylar," Mrs. Shalom announced, her tone calm. "As long as there is peace in the family, we’re willing to support it."

Xavier and Skylar exchanged relieved glances. "Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Dad," they said in unison, their voices filled with gratitude.

Seneca, however, wasn’t convinced. "Why the sudden change of heart?" she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion.

Mrs. Shalom sighed. "Xavier is no longer a boy. He’s a man now, capable of making his own decisions. If he believes Skylar is the right person for him, then we have to trust that he knows what he’s doing."

"And what if he’s making the wrong choice?" Seneca pressed.

"Then he’ll have to live with the consequences," Mr. Walter replied. "But as parents, our role is to support him, not control him."

Xavier grinned, his mood lifted for the first time since they had arrived. "Looks like I’ve got a wedding to plan!" he said with excitement. "Brothers, I’ll need your help with this!"

Oswald and Sherlock exchanged hesitant glances, but Xavier pulled them along with a playful shove, lightening the mood.

As the rest of the family gathered in small groups, Xavier led Skylar outside to the garden. The cool evening air was refreshing after the tense discussions. The garden, with its neatly trimmed hedges and fragrant flowers, offered a sense of peace that seemed far removed from the drama inside the house.

Skylar stopped near a stone bench, her hand slipping from Xavier’s grasp. She looked up at him, her expression filled with a mixture of relief and lingering doubt. "Do you really think they’ll accept me, Xavier? Or are they just tolerating me because they have no choice?"

Xavier stepped closer, wrapping his arms around her waist. "They’ll come around," he whispered, his voice full of conviction. "My family is stubborn, but they’ll learn to love you. Besides, they can’t deny that you make me happy."

Skylar leaned into his embrace, resting her head against his chest. "I hope you’re right," she murmured. "I don’t want to be the cause of tension between you and them."

"You’re not," Xavier reassured her, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me, Sky. I won’t let anyone ruin that—not even my family."

They stood in comfortable silence for a moment, the soft rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of crickets surrounding them. Skylar closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of Xavier’s body and the strength of his commitment to her. For the first time since arriving, she felt a sense of calm wash over her.

Xavier pulled back slightly, his hand cupping her cheek as he gazed into her eyes. "We’ll get through this together. I promise," he said softly. "And soon, all of this will just be a memory. We’ll be married, living our lives the way we want, without anyone else’s interference."

Skylar smiled, her heart swelling with love for him. "I don’t know what I’d do without you, Xavier."

"You’ll never have to find out," he said, leaning down to kiss her gently. The kiss was soft but full of the promise of their future together, a future they would fight for, no matter what obstacles came their way.

---

The following weeks passed in a blur of wedding preparations. Despite the initial resistance from his family, Xavier threw himself into the planning with enthusiasm. Skylar, though still cautious about her relationship with Xavier’s family, began to see small signs of acceptance, especially from his mother. Mrs. Shalom, though still reserved, started involving herself in the wedding plans, offering suggestions on venues, caterers, and guest lists.

It wasn’t easy, though. Skylar could feel the tension lingering beneath the surface every time she entered a room with Xavier’s siblings. Seneca was still distant, her sharp remarks about Skylar’s past lingering in the air during family dinners. Oswald and Sherlock were less overt, but their quiet judgment was just as palpable.

Nigel remained the biggest obstacle. He barely spoke to Skylar, and when he did, it was with thinly veiled hostility. He made it clear that he still didn’t approve of the marriage and took every opportunity to remind Xavier of the potential consequences of such a union.

But Xavier stood firm, never wavering in his support of Skylar. He shielded her from the worst of the family’s criticisms, constantly reminding her that they were building a life together, separate from anyone else’s expectations.

As the wedding day drew closer, Skylar found herself growing more excited. Despite the challenges, she couldn’t wait to marry Xavier. She had never imagined she would be marrying into a family like his, with all its complexities and wealth, but her love for Xavier overshadowed everything else.

One evening, as they sat together in the living room, flipping through a catalog of wedding cakes, Skylar glanced up at Xavier with a teasing smile. "So, what do you think your family will say when we go with the triple-layer chocolate cake instead of something more... sophisticated?"

Xavier chuckled, pulling her closer. "I think they’ll survive. Besides, it’s our wedding, not theirs. We’ll have whatever cake you want."

Skylar laughed, feeling lighter than she had in weeks. "I guess that’s true."

Xavier kissed her temple, his eyes twinkling with affection. "I told you, Sky. This wedding is about us. As long as we’re happy, nothing else matters."

---

The day of the wedding arrived, and Skylar found herself standing in front of the mirror, her reflection taking her breath away. The gown she had chosen was elegant yet simple, a perfect blend of modern style and classic beauty. Her hair was styled in soft waves, and a delicate veil trailed behind her, completing the look.

As she stood there, nerves fluttered in her stomach. It wasn’t just the wedding that had her on edge—it was the lingering uncertainty about how the day would unfold with Xavier’s family. Would they truly accept her, or would the tension that had simmered for weeks boil over at the worst possible moment?

A knock at the door broke her thoughts. It was Mrs. Shalom, dressed in a sleek navy-blue gown, looking every bit the matriarch of the family.

Skylar turned to face her, her heart racing. "Mrs. Shalom," she greeted, her voice polite but hesitant.

The older woman gave her a small smile, something Skylar hadn’t seen often during their time together. "Skylar, I wanted to speak with you before the ceremony."

Skylar nodded, unsure of what to expect. "Of course."

Mrs. Shalom stepped closer, her expression softening as she looked at Skylar. "I know I haven’t made things easy for you. In fact, I’ve probably been harder on you than I should have. But I want you to know that today, I’m putting all of that aside."

Skylar’s eyes widened in surprise, her heart lifting slightly. "You are?"

"Yes," Mrs. Shalom said with a sigh. "Xavier loves you, and I’ve seen how much you love him. I can’t keep fighting that. So today, I’m welcoming you into this family, for the sake of my family—for real."

Skylar blinked, struggling to hold back the sudden rush of emotion that filled her chest. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice thick with gratitude though it was a pretence. "That means so much to me."

Mrs. Shalom smiled again, this time with more warmth. "I’m not saying it will be easy, but I’ll try. For Xavier’s sake. And for yours."

With that, Mrs. Shalom gave Skylar a brief nod before turning to leave. Skylar stood there, her heart racing with a mix of relief and disbelief. It wasn’t perfect, but it was a start—a real start.

---

When Skylar finally walked down the aisle, her eyes locked with Xavier’s, everything else faded away. The grand venue, the hundreds of guests, even the tension with his family—it all disappeared as they stood together, ready to vow their love and commitment in front of everyone they cared about.

Xavier’s smile was radiant, and as Skylar reached his side, he whispered, "You look stunning."

Skylar blushed, her heart swelling with love for him. "You don’t look so bad yourself."

The ceremony went by in a blur of emotions—laughter, happy tears, and heartfelt vows that left both of them teary-eyed. As they exchanged rings, Xavier squeezed her hand, silently promising her everything they had fought for.

Finally, the moment arrived: "I now pronounce you husband and wife."

Skylar barely registered the applause as Xavier leaned in to kiss her, sealing their marriage with a soft, tender kiss that sent her heart soaring.

They had made it. Despite the doubts, the obstacles, and the pushback from his family, they had made it to this moment—together.

As they walked back down the aisle, hand in hand, Skylar couldn’t help but smile. The future wasn’t going to be easy, but she knew, without a doubt, that they would face it together. And that was all that mattered.