Letty's voice paused, dropping a few decibels lower. "For so many years, other than us, you haven't had anyone close to you. I am genuinely afraid you'll end up growing old alone."
Once, Letty had already prepared herself for the possibility that her son might remain solitary for the rest of his life. She hadn't expected the twist of fate that brought Leilani into the picture. Until Leilani and Callahan were officially married, her heart would remain suspended in anxiety.
Callahan looked up, seeing his mother's slightly reddened eyes. After a moment of silence, he finally spoke. "Mom, things are developing very well between Leilani and me."
Letty's eyes lit up. "Then you two..."
"But there is no rush for marriage," Callahan interrupted her. "Leilani has her own career and plans. I don't want her to feel pressured."
Letty opened her mouth to argue, but seeing the firm look in her son's eyes, she eventually swallowed her words.
"Fine." She waved her hand helplessly. "You young people handle your own affairs."
Dante took it in stride, chuckling as he smoothed things over. "Alright, alright, let's eat. Children have their own destinies. We'll just wait to drink at the wedding reception!"
Letty rolled her eyes at him and muttered softly, "You just spoil him."
Seeing that Callahan didn't want to elaborate, Letty knew when to stop and didn't press further.
"Alright, let's continue eating!"
So, Callahan could only ensure everything was prepared to perfection. The venue, the flowers, the lighting, the ring... He had to let Leilani see his seriousness and sincerity. Even if Leilani didn't agree in the end, he wouldn't let this become a burden between them.
Letty and Dante were still rambling on about "seizing the moment." Callahan just listened in silence, neither refuting nor explaining. He didn't intend to tell Dante and Letty about his plan to propose. After all, if the proposal succeeded, everyone would naturally be delighted. But if it failed...
His gaze darkened slightly, his fingertips unconsciously tracing the rim of his coffee cup.
If it failed, it would remain his personal regret, without affecting anyone else's opinion of Leilani. He would never allow his mother or grandfather to harbor even a sliver of dissatisfaction toward Leilani because of his impulsiveness.
After dinner, Callahan stood on the terrace of the estate, looking out at the night scenery, and dialed his assistant, Lennox.

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