Ben's parents were not easygoing, especially when it came to his marriage. For them, the most important thing was that any future spouse came from the right background. And now, Ben intended to marry a woman with neither wealth nor status. There was no way they would accept it.

"No, I haven't told them yet. And don't forget, the last time you got into trouble abroad, I was the one who had to clean up the mess. Don't tell me you're thinking of outing me now," Ben said, his eyes on Jake.

Jake quickly shook his head, showing his loyalty. "Come on, Ben, you know me better than that! We're like brothers. I'd sell out my own dad before I'd sell you out. This secret goes with me to the grave. But...

"But they'll find out eventually," he continued, looking around uneasily. "Even if I stay quiet, you know they're gonna get wind of it at some point. They've already got matchmaking plans in motion. When they find out, it'll be like a bomb going off."

Ben nodded, giving Jake's shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "That's why I didn't invite anyone else from the family today. Just you. Don't let me down."

look on his face. "Got it, Ben," he muttered, slumping into his seat. He glanced around the room, feeling the weight of

from his aunt, Ben's mother: "Jake, I'm scouting for suitable matches for Ben. Can you lend a

photos filled his screen, one woman after another, each with a polished, poised look.

looked lovely in her gown. He replied with as much diplomacy as he could muster: "Honestly, I think marriage is all about finding someone Ben truly likes. Even the prettiest match won't mean much if he's not

I'm not letting him run wild. Now, help me out here and give me

and continued to placate her, knowing she wouldn't easily budge

had begun. Ben stood beside

on the couple throughout

belonged to Jake, who couldn't help but envision his aunt's reaction and the chaos that would surely ensue when she found out. The mere thought was enough to make

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