"I've had enough of trying to talk to you," Rachel said, her frustration evident as she turned toward the estate, her steps determined.
"Wait. Let's find a way to come to an agreement that benefits both of us. We need a plan," Nick's voice chimed in, a hint of urgency in his tone.
Rachel let out a heavy sigh, her irritation palpable.
"My plan right now is just to survive this dinner," Rachel replied, her voice tinged with resignation, and she headed back towards the house. Nick silently followed her inside.
They made their way directly to the dining room, where everyone had already gathered, and the table was adorned with an array of delectable dishes.
"Ah, there you are. I was about to send someone to fetch you," Maria greeted Rachel with a warm smile.
"You two were quite heated in your conversation earlier. But now you're inseparable," Sarah teased Rachel, a playful wink accompanying her words.
Rachel felt a wave of discomfort wash over her at the comment, her stomach churning. Had they really been outside for so long? It had only been a matter of wandering too far into the estate that had prolonged their absence, nothing more.
Suppressing her feelings, Rachel managed a polite smile, not wanting to offend anyone. However, her patience was wearing thin, unsure how long she could keep up this charade.
As Rachel approached the dining chairs, she realized that the only unoccupied seats were side by side, meant for her and Nick. Her mother's subtle glance conveyed a stern message, compelling Rachel to comply without protest.
Taking her seat, Rachel noticed Nick settling in beside her.
"Oh, you two look absolutely adorable together," Sarah, Nick's mother, gushed enthusiastically, prompting an internal groan from Rachel. Could this woman ever stop talking?
With utensils in hand, Rachel began eating, the others following suit, grateful for the focus on the food and the ensuing silence.
Sarah shattered the quiet once more with a remark that nearly made Rachel choke on her food.
"How about we plan the wedding for next month? No use in delaying happiness, right?"
Rachel's internal struggle prevented her from recognizing the expressions that flitted across her parents' faces.
Breaking the silence, Rachel's father, Drake, finally spoke up. "Perhaps taking it slow is wise. Rachel and Nick could use more time to get to know each other."
"Agreed," Maria chimed in, her support evident.
"Rachel and Nick will have plenty of time to bond after they're married. Delaying things seems unnecessary," Sarah retorted with a frown, sharing her perspective.
"I believe sooner is better. Don't you agree, Drake?" Mr Hill interjected addressing Drake, Rachel's father.
The tension around the table was palpable, and Rachel realized that there was more to this situation than met the eye. A sinking feeling settled in her stomach as she considered the possibility that her father might be facing some sort of trouble.