When Two Winters Met (Henrietta and Yosef) novel Chapter 66

Henrietta was speechless. Logically, she understood his perspective. But…

Before she could form a response, Joaquin spoke again. “You’ll just need to be a good wife at home, go shopping, have a few children, and raise them well. A woman as beautiful as you, Ms. Sargent, will surely have beautiful children.”

Henrietta put down her knife and fork and looked at him, but before she could speak, he cut her off again. She fell silent, deciding to let him finish.

“My mother is very fond of you,” Joaquin said. “It’s a shame you rejected the alliance before. But I’m glad I waited all these years; it wasn’t in vain. As for your… previous low-class boyfriend, I think it’s best you never contact him again. And this storm you’re planning? Forget about it. Have him run out of Juno City to avoid any gossip.”

Henrietta arched an eyebrow. “Gossip?”

“After what happened at your birthday party, even though it was cleaned up relatively well, do you really think people aren't talking?”

She met his gaze coolly. “Does that bother you, Mr. Leland?”

So this was what he was “considering.”

“A little,” he admitted. “But it’s not important. For you, I can overlook the past.”

Henrietta let out a small laugh. “If I married you, I wouldn’t be allowed to work. What about the Sargent Group? When my father gets older, it will be mine.”

Joaquin sipped his wine. “If you become my wife, then naturally, I will manage the Sargent Group for you.”

She couldn’t believe it. She had come for dinner, said almost nothing, and had been subjected to a laundry list of requirements and a complete critique of her life.

Joaquin was stunned. “It’s only natural to be a little judgmental.” he said, recovering. “But I told you, for your sake, I don’t care. And raising a family is what a woman is meant to do. What’s wrong with a comfortable life at home? It’s a luxury others can only dream of.”

Henrietta grabbed her bag and nodded stiffly. “Your vision is lovely, but I can’t fulfill it. I apologize. I’m leaving now.”

“Ms. Sargent!” Joaquin shot to his feet. But she ignored him and walked away.

He threw down his cutlery and followed her. “You can’t be serious. I was just being honest. Would you have preferred I lied to you?”