Whispers Turn to Whimpers: Could He Ever Change? novel Chapter 1277

"I don't need her approval to do things," Galen said, looking at Joyce earnestly. "This might be a poor comparison, but the principle is the same… Joyce, you've seen how I handle my relationship with her and my sister. When it comes to our relationship, I will be even more careful and decisive."

Joyce stared at him, slightly taken aback. She knew how good he was to Sherilyn. The fact that Sherilyn, who hated the Martin family, could accept him as a brother spoke volumes. His kindness was more than just superficial.

And now, he was making this promise to her.

"I would just need you to bear with it, to pretend she doesn't exist," Galen continued, his eyes fixed on hers. "I also can't give you a mother-in-law who will dote on you… Joyce, I…" He hesitated before asking, "Do I still have a chance?"

Joyce bit her lip, saying nothing. Galen's expression fell, and he forced a faint smile. "Heh. It's okay." He had only stated half of his position; there was another part. "If you can't accept this, you can absolutely reject me… There's no need to force yourself." With her qualifications, she could easily find a family that was her equal in every way, with in-laws who would adore her. In the end, he was the one being selfish.

As Joyce remained silent, a cold dread crept into Galen's heart. He stood up. "Well, then I'll…"

"Hmph," Joyce suddenly sniffed, wrinkling her nose. "Who said anything about marrying you? We've only been dating for a few days."

"Joyce?" Galen froze, his eyes widening. What did she mean?

Joyce pouted. "I have to see if you're reliable first, don't I?"

Her meaning was crystal clear. He still had a chance!

"Yes!" Galen was overjoyed. "You're right, I was getting ahead of myself… I'll keep working hard!"

"Mm," Joyce nodded, tilting her chin up. She pointed at the bag on the table, unable to hide her smile. "So, what delicious food did you bring me?"

"I understand," Gilbert said, waving a dismissive hand. "You can go rest."

"Yes, Mr. Harrison. You should get some rest too."

As soon as Charles left, Gilbert closed his eyes, a wave of dizziness washing over him. He'd known of Nanson before but wasn't familiar with the details, which was why he'd sent Charles to investigate. Divorced, with a daughter from his previous marriage who lived with her mother. He owned a law firm, an investment company, and several other businesses, all backed by the powerful Cooper family. At thirty-three or thirty-four, he was already a lawyer on par with Edwin Morris, with a limitless future ahead of him. Objectively, he was an excellent match. And because he was divorced, his family likely wouldn't object to him marrying another divorcee, unlike the Fergusons had.

Excellent. Just great. Really.

A bitter taste flooded Gilbert's mouth. He walked to the liquor cabinet, took out a bottle, and opened it. Just as he was about to drink, a sharp pain shot through his head.