Can’t Win Me Back

Feeling bitter, Mandy nonetheless smiled with understanding. “You wouldn’t have talked back to me otherwise.

“I will not stop you from pursuing the woman you love, but with one condition— Lauren and Landon must have a clean break. If they remained entangled with each other, I do not want you involved in it.” Mandy’s tone grew serious. “I do not mind your partner’s background or life experience as long as she’s a decent young lady. However, I will not accept a daughter-in-law whom you stole from another man.”

Jasper had a newfound respect for Mandy. It was no surprise she had raised three wonderful children.

“Lauren will have the final say.” Cyrus’ eyes shone with determination. “If she chooses me, I will not disappoint her. But if she chooses to be with Landon, I will help them to overcome the challenges, no matter what it takes.”

An idea came to Alyssa. Eyes twinkling, she asked, “Cyrus, are you really willing to help?”

“Have I ever walked back on my word?” Cyrus seemed to have made up his mind.

“Since Mandy is here as well, I will openly state my idea.” After a pause, Alyssa inquired firmly, “Cyrus, may I make use of you?”

exchanged confused looks. Cyrus fixed a solemn gaze on Alyssa. “Lyse, what is it

flashed a clever smile at him. “I want you to wreck their

him speechless. Smiling wryly, he commented, “Lyse, my mom has just warned me not to steal a woman from another man.

what I mean is I’d like you to ruin the upcoming marriage between

deepened. He wrapped an arm around her waist. Last night, he

any shut-eye at all, as he thought through solutions for Landon and Lauren and made preparations for the future. To his surprise, Alyssa was more

escape their fates of being used by Alyssa in one way

you want me to pose as a

stealing, but I don’t mind competing against Freddy. I’m a Taylor—I don’t shy away from conflicts, and I can

to win Javier’s approval.” “Indeed. Lyse, Javier Beckett