Seven

"Let's just say it was love at first sight, plus I also didn't want to be forced to marry someone I don't love," Raven explained, her gaze pointedly directed at her mother. Her words seemed to carry an unspoken message. What did she mean by that?

"So this marriage is real?" My dad's calm demeanor was unnerving.

"Yes, Dad, you can call my lawyer to confirm," I said, trying to sound more confident. The barrage of questions was starting to get on my nerves.

"Come, my dear," my father said, reaching out to Raven. "Your father would be so happy right now. Welcome to the family." He enveloped Raven in a heartfelt embrace, his smile almost tearful. It was an unexpected reaction, I had never seen him this happy since my mother’s death. "Finally, I kept the promise I made to my friend. We need to have a proper wedding."

I scanned the room, searching for Julie, but she was nowhere to be found. The maids informed me she had left when Raven arrived. She's probably with her boyfriend, Kyl