Samuel hesitated, his tongue feeling like lead in his mouth. He sighed, rubbing his temples in an attempt to alleviate the mounting stress. "Look, Jasper, I understand your concerns…"
Jasper cut him short, his voice rising in indignation. "Concerns? Concerns? You're damn right, I have concerns! You're messing with my family! Are you serious about her? Or is it just casual dating?" His interrogation became increasingly heated.
Caught off guard, Samuel struggled for an answer. While he enjoyed Elsa's company, he wasn't prepared for a committed relationship. His uncertainty echoed in the silence that followed Jasper's probing question.
"Are you ready to marry her?" Jasper asked fiercely.
"Marriage? No!" Samuel exclaimed. "Look, I like her, but I'm not ready for marriage. I need more time."