The Daring Billionaire’s Wife novel (Vanessa and Dominic) novel Chapter 175

Liam

As soon as I arrive at my parents' residence, the staff stand in line to welcome me, but this isn't a warm welcome as I know what to expect when I speak to my parents.

I make my way inside, ready to fully explain myself as I know the challenge I'm about to face.

How could Stephanie tell them when I told her that I planned to do this myself? My father already sounded like he was against my decision, but I'm here now and by the time I leave this place, it'll be with my family's approval.

I get to the living room, my mother's glare so sharp that I can feel it from a distance. I'm certain that if Charlotte was here, she'd look at me the same way.

"Good morning," I say to both of them, taking a seat on the couch across from theirs.

"What's so good about this morning when you ruined it?" My mother sneers. "Of all the shocking things in this world we could've heard from Stephanie, this wasn't on the list! Are you out of your mind?"

"Mom, you have it all wrong. I made this decision with a clear mind."

"A clear mind?" My father chimes in, his tone and facial expression filled with disapproval. "You made the decision to marry someone you know absolutely nothing about."

"It's not like I'm marrying her today or something. I have my reasons for choosing her and-"

"We already know," my mother cuts me off. "Aileen claims she has no idea who we are, but do you really believe that? Don't you know how many ladies would jump at the opportunity to be with you? We've set you up on several dates before but those never worked out, which is why we thought it would still be Stephanie in the end since you two are so close."

"Mom-"

"No! She was heartbroken when she told us about this and I'm certain her parents will be disappointed."

"If you always wanted me to marry her, why did you make me go on those dates in the first place?"

"It was to establish a few business connections along the way. And because you never showed any romantic interest in Stephanie, we thought we'd let you choose from all the other ones we set up for you. But if I'm being honest, I always wanted it to be her."

"I'm sorry to disappoint you, but I don't like her that way."

My father scoffs. "How could you not like her when she's so classy and decent?"

I raise my eyebrows a little. If only I could openly tell them that Stephanie isn't who they think she is.

"Liam, should I remind you that even before your mother and I got married, we didn't like -"

"I know. You didn't like each other. I've heard it a million times. You only fell in love later on, but that's not what I want."

"Listen to me." My mother points a finger at me. "If you think we're about to accept a girl we know nothing about into this family, you're wrong. You can't just walk up to someone and decide that she's going to be your wife. What if she's a criminal?"

"She's definitely not."

"You don't know that for sure," my father says. "I hope that by the end of the day, you'll be back to your senses and stop this nonsense."

"But-"

"Enough." He rises to his feet, loosening his necktie. "I need to get to work now."

And with that, he makes his way out of the living room and I look over at my mother, who doest even want to look at me.

"Mom-"

"No." She crosses her arms, facing the other side.

I get up from my seat, taking a seat right beside her and reaching for her hand even if she doesn't look at me.

"You're obviously disappointed that it's not Stephanie, but I seriously don't see myself with her."

She sighs. "While it's mainly Stephanie, there are other girls from good families within our circle."

"And I want none of that. Aren't you the ones who want me to settle down?" I remind her.

"Yes, but-"

"I've made my choice. I'm certain that when you meet Aileen, you'll change your mind."

She rolls her eyes. "That's where you're wrong. Just get your head right and forget about whatever this is. I won't accept it."

"What if-"

"Enough."

I press my lips together so I don't speak any further. It's clear to me that there's no getting through to her. It's obvious that she's extremely disappointed. Aunt Mia is her best friend and they've spoken about this for years. Still, it doesn't change anything for me.

"I'm sorry," I say to her.

"That's my son." She chuckles, holding onto my arm. "Now you're talking a-"

"I'm sorry for not settling down the way you all want me to."

She gasps. "Liam!"