Love at First Novel by Gu Lingfei

But the elders in Maddox's family always reminded him he was the only son. His wife had to be strong enough to support him and smart enough not to covet the Johnstone family's fortune.

"She's got great character and strength. My parents really like her too," Maddox said. Romina smiled. "That's because you actually listened to their talk about health routines. Most people run away when they hear that."

Maddox laughed. "Well, their methods must work. They look younger and younger every time I see them. When your mom's standing next to you, people would think you're sisters." Romina sighed. "She keeps telling me to start taking care of myself. Says if I don't, I'll look older than her one day. It's kind of brutal." "We definitely can't lose to the older generation," Maddox joked.

Romina leaned back. "I could never compete with her. She's stress-free now, and I'm under pressure from every direction-business and life. You know how my grandpa is always pushing me to get married. He's worried I'll end up alone." "But it's not like I've been avoiding marriage because I couldn't. If I wanted to settle down, I could've done it right after college. Back then, I had plenty of guys chasing me—and some of them were actually great."

She had just been too young and not ready for marriage.

Then, once she grew into her role as a strong, independent woman, she found she liked the freedom. She didn't need a relationship to feel fulfilled.

Maddox, hearing her talk about her college years, suddenly thought of a junior he had a crush on back then. She was a couple years younger than him. By now, she was probably married.

tied the knot

if he had pursued her back

though he liked her, he never made a move. He just showed up around her, waiting for her to make

Or maybe she thought

Lacroix estate,

was lit up, with the butler out front directing

waited in the yard

guest invited tonight was someone important in Eaglioncile-wealthy, noble, or

reputation

on a

recognized the

clashing with him, she knew everything about him, even his