Chapter 4522
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.
Most people tied the knot in their mid-twenties.
He wondered—what if he had pursued her back then? Would he already be married now?
But back then, he was arrogant. Even though he liked her, he never made a move. He just showed up around her, waiting for her to make the first move.
She never did. Maybe she just didn’t like him. Or maybe she thought he was just another spoiled golden boy with too many admirers.
As the car rolled into the Lacroix estate, Maddox shook off the thought.
The mansion was lit up, with the butler out front directing cars.
The younger generation of the Lacroix family waited in the yard to greet guests, no matter their status.
But every guest invited tonight was someone important in Eaglioncile—wealthy, noble, or both.
The Lacroix family had an excellent reputation in town, and people respected them.
Romina’s eyes landed on a Maybach parked ahead.
She instantly recognized the license plate—it was River’s.
After years of clashing with him, she knew everything about him, even his license plate number.
But there was one thing she didn’t know: River’s family background.
He never talked about it. Ever.
Once, someone asked why he left Wiltspoon, such a major city with so many opportunities, to come all the way to Eaglioncile.
River’s answer?
He said he couldn’t make it in Wiltspoon anymore and had to get away from everything—to start over.
Was that the truth?
Who knew?
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