Filed to story: Mia Bowen and Timothy Barrett Novel
Maya never anticipated Dominic presenting a physical document directly, and his demeanor was unusually resolute.
Wearing a pitiful expression, Maya pleaded, “Dominic, today is my engagement day. Do we have. to discuss this matter now?”
After the ceremony. Maya planned to return to Nord City. At that point, she would ensure her brothers witnessed how indispensable she was to Laura.
Hopefully, this would make Dominic reconsider and spare her from signing the agreement.
Dominic narrowed his eyes slightly. “Maya, I made it clear to you last night. If you’re dissatisfied with the compensation terms, feel free to suggest your own.”
Connor fixed his gaze on Maya. “But you’re marrying Timothy and assuming the role of the lady of the house, aren’t you?
“Financial concerns shouldn’t be an issue for you. After all, Dominic has been generous to you all these years!”
Maya forced a smile and replied, “I acknowledge Dominic’s kindness to me. That’s why I see myself as part of the Lane family. But, getting married shouldn’t be a reason to cast me aside. right?”
She couldn’t fathom the reason for this sudden decision.
Considering his biological sister Mia, who had endured years of suffering, Dominic chose to sever Maya’s adoptive ties.
Otherwise, explaining things to Mia would be difficult if she saw them together here before knowing everything..
At the very least, he wanted Maya out of the Lane family before Mia discovered the truth.
Dominic handed the document to Maya. “Sign it.”
Maya scrutinized the document. “Dominic, could you tell me why you’ve suddenly decided to terminate my adoption?”
Maya had no intention of signing the document.
Deep down, she had always regarded herself as the heiress of the Lane family. The chance to become engaged to Timothy also derived from her standing in the family.
Hence, Maya was determined not to lose this advantageous position under any circumstances.
Dominic pursed his lips. “There isn’t any additional rationale behind this decision. It’s simply the appropriate moment to finalize your adoption, in accordance with our initial agreement.”
Before Maya could respond, Blake hurriedly entered and announced, “Ms. Lane, the Barrett family has arrived.”
Maya’s expression turned uneasy. She promptly handed the document to Blake and turned to Dominic, pleading. “Dominic, can we discuss this matter after the engagement ceremony?”
Dominic nodded. “Certainly, Maya. However, concerning this matter, there’s flexibility only in terms of compensation. Everything else is non¨Cnegotiable.”
Upon hearing this, Maya’s fists clenched tightly. Did this imply that, regardless of the circumstances, she would be required to sign the document?
But, why?
After dedicating herself for all these years and making significant contributions to the Lane family. why were they intent on pushing her away?
Connor’s tone was cold as he retorted, “Maya, you’ve already benefited significantly from our family over the years. We don’t owe you anything.”
With the discovery of their biological sister, Mia, who had endured years of suffering, the Lane family was determined to bring her back into the fold.
They certainly wouldn’t tolerate anyone mistreating Mia.
Hence, Maya couldn’t remain a part of the Lane family.
After all, she was now set to marry Timothy and step into a prosperous future as his wife.
Maya stayed silent and signaled to Blake to discreetly conceal the document, ensuring it remained out of sight.
Just then, the Barretts entered the main hall.
Maya swiftly regained her composure and greeted, “Mrs. Barrett, you’ve arrived.”
As she spoke, Maya cast another glance at Timothy beside her, a subtle anticipation in her eyes.
If the engagement ceremony unfolded smoothly today, she would soon become part of the Barrett family.
Timothy remained unfazed, his eyes scanning the three Lane brothers before finally settling on
Connor.
He recalled the morning when he called Mia, and Connor’s voice could be heard in the background.
This incident had been on Timothy’s mind ever since..
pyesi
Upon spotting the three handsome Lane brothers, Shelly’s eyes widened. Dominic may be married, but Nathan and Connor, both remarkable young men, were still single.
If Shelly could marry one of them, it would be ideal.
With a smile, Sharon took Maya’s hand. “Why are you still calling me Mrs. Barrett? It’s time to change that now.”
Maya smiled with a touch of shyness, though her eyes didn’t quite reflect the same warmth.
Shelly chimed in, “Maya, we’re going to be family soon. When does the engagement ceremony begin? You haven’t started getting ready. Do you have enough time?”
“I thought I’d wait for all of you to help me out, you know? After all, I don’t have any female friends or relatives here in Bern City.”
Sharon waved her hands dismissively. “No worries, we’ll assist you. Let’s go.”
Maya nodded and turned to Dominic. “Dominic, I’ll take them upstairs for makeup and a change of clothes.”
“Sure.”
Dominic nodded, shooting Timothy a displeased look.
According to Connor’s remarks, it seemed Timothy had ulterior motives toward Mia.
Soon after, the main hall was left with four men.
Three members faced off against a single opponent; it was evident that there was mutual animosity between the two sides.
Breaking the silence, Connor spoke up, “Mr. Barrett, after your engagement today, you should other women.”
Certainly, Timothy must not entertain any feelings for Mia! Being a divorced man from a second marriage, he had no right to covet her.
Timothy could discern the underlying message in Connor’s words. It seemed like a veiled threat, but Timothy questioned Connor’s authority to make such statements.
Timothy narrowed his eyes. “What’s your connection with Mia?”
“Heh, whatever connection I have with her is none of your concern. But remember this, young man, she’s not someone you can pursue. Stay away from her!”
Connor decided to be straightforward. After all, it would be better for everyone to be open and transparent with each other.
The atmosphere in the hall grew tense for a moment.
Timothy adjusted his tie. “Dr. Lane, you’re too overbearing. Grandma entrusted me with taking care of Mia, so her matters are my responsibility.”
Dominic couldn’t contain his volatile temper upon hearing this. Timothy was already engaged to
Maya. Did he still want to have it both ways?
Timothy’s face remained stern, showing no signs of yielding.
Dominic was furious. He stood up, seized Timothy’s collar, and declared, “What’s with that attitude? Retract what you just said, or I’ll break your damn legs today!”
Dominic couldn’t comprehend how Timothy had the audacity to openly express his interest in Mia!
Timothy’s gaze was arrogant and defiant. “No retractions,” he shot back.
Speaking in a cold tone, Connor addressed Timothy, “Do you even think you deserve Mia? Initially.
I was reluctant to consent to Grandma Laura’s surgery.
“I don’t usually go out of my way for people I dislike, and you happen to be one of them. However,
Mia pleaded with me, so I reluctantly agreed.”
Timothy stared at him in shock, and after a moment, he spoke in a hoarse voice, “Are you telling me that Mia begged you to perform the surgery on my grandmother?”
“Yes, that’s right. I agreed to operate on Grandma Laura out of consideration for Mia. It’s solely because of Mia’s plea.
“After all, Grandma Laura has looked after Mia before, and I’m not one to disregard gratitude. So, I consented to the surgery!”
Timothy’s body seemed to freeze, his mind going blank.
His trembling lips managed to utter, “Isn’t it because of Maya that you agreed to perform the
Connor promptly denied, “No, it’s not.”
Timothy felt as if all the strength had been drained from his body. He sank onto the sofa, propping himself up with one hand, and stared at Connor with a weighted gaze.
All along. Timothy had assumed it was because of Maya.