Chapter 1427:
In that slow, imperceptible drift, she lost herself. Each compromise led to another until she barely recognized the person she had become.
The Astley family ranked among the elite of Nelting. Their union with the Fords represented a significant social advancement for the latter.
There was absolutely no reason for Rachel to appear so subservient before the Fords.
Corrine knew Rachel’s humility stemmed from her genuine feelings for Jules.
Yet those feelings didn’t grant Jules the right to take advantage of her affection.
As Corrine hesitated at the garden entrance, contemplating whether to confront Jules and set things right, his voice came through.
“I oppose having the wedding so soon not because I don’t want to marry you, but because everything feels rushed, and I’m worried I can’t give you the grand wedding you deserve.”
Even though their union was one of convenience, Jules understood that as Rachel’s future husband, it was his duty to fulfill certain expectations.
He felt compelled to give Rachel all the dignity she deserved.
Upon hearing this, Rachel lowered her eyes, concealing the emotions threatening to surface. “Alright, I’ll inform my parents to come and discuss the wedding arrangements.”
“Whatever you say,” Jules replied with finality. “It’s getting windy outside, so let’s go back in.”
Rachel nodded and reached out to hold his arm, but Jules turned away and walked briskly toward the house.
She watched her hand fall empty into the space between them, a wave of indescribable sadness welling inside her.
“I’ll get some fresh air outside. You go on back,” Rachel said.
𝕊𝕠𝕦𝕣𝕔𝕖 𝕗𝕚𝕝𝕖: 𝗀𝖺𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘀﹒𝖼𝗈𝗆
Jules turned, his gaze lingering on her quietly before he walked away without a word.
Standing alone, Rachel watched his retreating figure until it disappeared from view.
As a future husband, Jules performed his role impeccably.
He considered her feelings and treated her with respect. Every gesture, every consideration stemmed from his sense of duty rather than genuine care.
She had always told herself that her love alone could sustain them—that if she loved him deeply enough, his indifference wouldn’t matter.
But now, faced with Jules’ cold demeanor, she wondered if she had been too naive, thinking too simply.
Love and marriage were always a dance for two. One-sided devotion only comforts the giver; it never truly reaches the other heart.
She harbored no regrets about her choices, yet she was at a loss for how to awaken any genuine feeling from Jules.
Rachel sighed softly and turned her attention to the roses swaying gently in the evening breeze. She reached out, her fingertip barely grazing a delicate petal. “Do you think I’m stupid too?”
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