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?”

gaze on Alyssa. “Lyse, what

clever smile at him. “I want you to

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

is I’d like you to ruin

waist. Last night, he

and Lauren and made preparations

back, none of the Taylor sons could escape their fates of being used by Alyssa in one way

a love rival

no different than stealing, but I don’t mind competing against

has agreed to the marriage. He’s very happy with the Hodgsons. Even if we make Cyrus openly compete against Freddy, it’ll be hard for Cyrus to win Javier’s