Ethan set aside his newspaper and got up from the couch. "We're only pushing the date of the engagement party. We can easily adjust the invitations," he remarked, directing a scrutinizing look toward Madelyn, as if trying to gauge her feelings.

Evelyn sharply retorted, "Hold on, Ethan. I didn't ask for your input. Remember, you were the one adamant about this marriage. The entire Ventropolis is aware of it now. If you pull the plug on the engagement party at this stage, have you considered the talk that will follow? Or how Madelyn might be feeling?"

It was rare for Evelyn to use such a stern tone with Ethan.

Madelyn, feeling a lump in her throat, kept her eyes lowered. After a moment of contemplation, she spoke up, "...maybe Ethan's just not sure yet. His decision might be due to reasons we aren't privy to."

She continued, "I get it; this is a big decision. For now, I'm cool with pushing it back. I'll talk to my father about it; he'll be fine.

With a sigh, she said, "And with exam