A Life Beyond Limits novel Chapter 269

Bella knew what Clarice was talking about. She said, "All we did was head to the library to study."

Clarice said, "He doesn't look like the studious type, if you ask me. You need to understand where I'm coming from, Bella. Many young men look outstanding now, but you'll realize how ordinary they are when you grow older. Look at your father—"

"Dad is wonderful. At least, that's what I think," Bella cut her off. She wasn't happy with Clarice's prejudice.

That rendered Clarice speechless. Still, she knew pushing Bella when the latter was madly in love would only have the opposite effect. She decided to take a step back and said, "I'm inviting a few friends for a gathering this weekend. Since you're so sure of this young man, why don't you bring him along?"

Bella was delighted to hear that. "Does that mean you approve of him? You'll let us be together?"

Clarice didn't give a straight answer. "We'll see how it goes."

"Okay!" Naively enough, that gave Bella hope. She chatted with Clarice about university for a while longer before hanging up. Though she was happy, she couldn't help feeling a little worried.

Clarice had always been shrewd and proud. She'd been vehemently opposed to Bella being with Jack—could she have something sinister planned now that she'd suddenly changed her mind and invited Jack to join them for a meal?

Bella started tearing her hair out over the matter.

…

When Jack woke up the following morning, he saw snow outside. It had already covered the ground in a blanket of white. Without even realizing it, winter had come.