"Why is Uncle here today? Is there a special occasion?" I ask, adopting a naive expression that mirrors the one the original Faye often wore around Caden. I play the role of the clueless participant flawlessly, maintaining a façade of innocence, though my thoughts are already racing ahead. In their eyes, I'm still the clueless one—ironically, the potential bride, the only person here who 'has no idea' about the marriage proposal. Of course, thanks to Assistant Uno, I'm well aware, but they don't need to know that. Time is money, after all, and I have no desire to dwell on unnecessary pleasantries.
Mr. Timewell glances in my direction, his expression subtly displeased by the interruption. Caden, on the other hand, looks momentarily bewildered, as if he can't quite comprehend why I've slipped back into the demeanor of the original Faye. Across from us, Mr. Lozero chuckles awkwardly, a slight tension hanging in the air.
"I haven't had the chance to inform Faye about the proposal yet," Mr. Lozero says, his gaze flicking to Caden. "But since you're already here," he gestures toward him with a casual wave, "why don't you tell her yourself?" His tone is light, almost too light, but beneath it, there's a barely concealed mockery aimed at the Timewells for their impatience. The atmosphere shifts ever so slightly, though no one directly acknowledges it. I simply nod, staying in character, letting them think I'm just along for the ride. And for once, it'd be fun to see Caden be the person begging. I'm sure if the original Faye is watching from heaven or hell, she'll be very satisfied. Unfortunately for her soul, I don't plan on accepting any stupid proposals that don't benefit me.
Caden clears his throat, sitting up a little straighter, trying to gather confidence. That familiar, well-practiced smile of his reappears, though it's more forced than usual. He's clearly uncomfortable with my indifference, and I can see the tension in his voice as he struggles to handle this conversation now that I'm no longer pining after him.
"Well, Faye," he starts, glancing briefly at his father, seeking some sort of confirmation. But Mr. Timewell doesn't intervene. He watches silently, his expression stern, not amused but intent on letting Caden handle this on his own. Part of his training, no doubt. Caden presses on, his eyes returning to me. "It's not exactly a special occasion. My father and I have been talking, and we believe it's the right time to... take things in a new direction."
He pauses, likely expecting a reaction that I have no intention of giving. The discomfort in his voice becomes more apparent, and I relish how he falters, losing the confidence he once wore so easily.
"We... uh, we think it's best for both families," Caden continues, his voice wavering slightly. "You and I have known each other for a long time. And with everything that's been happening lately..." He trails off, struggling to find the right words, as if he's grasping for something—anything—that might bring back the old Faye, the one who would hang on his every word.
I simply watch, my expression calm and expectant.
"So," he stammers, looking increasingly flustered, "we thought—a proposal could benefit both of us. You... you were always interested in me, right? And this could be the perfect opportunity for us to finally... formalize things."
His eyes flicker nervously, trying to gauge my reaction, but I blink slowly, letting the silence hang heavy between us.
Caden shifts on his feet, his hands fidgeting as he searches for more to say. "I mean, it's not just about us," he adds, his voice a bit louder, as if trying to convince himself. "Think of the business potential! Our families—our companies—could really benefit from this partnership. It's logical, Faye."
He's clearly trying to appeal to my rational side, but I can see the desperation creeping in, his voice slightly trembling as he fumbles for words. "And, um, it could make you happy, right? I know how much you like being around me, and—" He shifts nervously, running a hand through his hair, the color rising in his cheeks.
I can't help but smirk slightly at the way he stumbles over his words, clinging to the past like it's a lifebuoy. It's a little abnormal considering he's supposedly the male lead. "Caden," I interrupt, my tone light but edged with sarcasm, leaning back slightly as I cross my arms. "The last time I saw you, you were trying to hurt me and 'my boyfriend.' Where's all of this coming from? I'm sure our families are doing just as well, even with us being friends—sort of. Don't you agree?"
His eyes widen, and he opens his mouth to respond, but no words emerge. The realization that I'm not the same Faye he once knew is finally sinking in, and I relish the moment, letting the silence stretch out as he grapples with my question. He swallows hard, his face shifting from shock to confusion, and for a fleeting moment, I almost feel sorry for him.
Mr. Timewell, clearly irritated by the 'inexperienced brats yapping,' decides to interject. He leans forward, his brow furrowed. "Faye, dear, as great as a friendship can be, blood ties strengthen bonds a lot more." He gestures toward my stomach with a pointed finger. THE AUDACITY.
"Uncle is absolutely right," I say, unable to resist a cheeky grin, tilting my head slightly as I meet his gaze. "The boyfriend I mentioned earlier—maybe Caden must've informed you about him—is your elder son. We can definitely form blood ties." I tap my stomach playfully, mirroring his earlier action with a mockingly raised eyebrow.
A loud boisterous laugh echoes in my mind from the system Bee, who seems to materialize just in time. "Host, you're so good at roasting people! I'm glad I'm not your only victim! HAHAHAHA!"
Mrs. Lozero jumps into the conversation, her voice sharp enough to cut glass. She leans forward, hands on her hips, her expression a mix of disbelief and indignation. "My lovely daughter, how can the Lozero family's heir wed an illegitimate son? Don't talk nonsense anymore; be obedient. It's fine to play around, but it's time you got engaged now, honey."
"Mommy," I say, feigning innocence, my eyebrows raised. "One would expect you of all people to understand my situation. Wasn't your situation before you married Dad worse than that of an illegitimate son of the Timewell family?" I maintain my smile, my posture relaxed, enjoying the moment. Isn't there a saying about not being able to slap a smiling face?
Mrs. Lozero's expression tightens, and I can see the urge to slap me simmering just below the surface, her fingers twitching at her sides. Yet years of being groomed as a proper aristocrat and the presence of guests seem to restrain her.
Controlling herself, she shoots a glance at Mr. Lozero, as if to say, 'Deal with her yourself.'
Mr. Lozero's annoyance flickers to life as he senses my challenge to his beloved wife. He straightens his posture, crossing his arms in a defensive stance. "Faye, you shouldn't look down on your mother. She and I have worked hard to get us to where we are today. I won't hold your words against you or ask you to apologize. I know you're not thinking clearly right now." He takes a step closer, his voice firm but strained. "You're the heir of our family. All of this will one day belong to you, and it's only right for you to work hard for our family's welfare. Besides, I know you've had a lover's spat with Young Master Timewell, but do you think you can hide how much you love him from your own parents? You even asked me to move you to his classroom—don't be shy, daughter." He offers me a grin, a forced camaraderie that makes my skin crawl, his eyes glinting with expectation.
Is he done? If I had a gun, I'd shoot all four—no, five—of them, system included. I've never been a patient or diplomatic person, but today is testing my limits like never before. I glance at the ornate clock hanging on the wall, its ticking a relentless reminder of time passing. Almost two hours since I last saw my obedient puppy. Time to wrap this up.
"I am the heir? Dad, are you sure?" I ask Mr. Lozero, my gaze unwavering, not hiding my mocking gaze this time as I lean forward slightly, challenging him. The moment hangs in the air, thick with tension, and I can see his irritation bubble to the surface as the truth settles in.
"Yes, of course, you're our only daughter. Who else will we give all of this to, if not you?" he replies, clearly annoyed, his jaw tightening. "Let's have a press conference about the engagement on the 11th, shall we? It's an auspicious date."
Caden bounces his leg impatiently, glancing between me and Mr. Lozero, his desperation palpable as he shifts in his seat, fingers drumming nervously against the armrest. It must be tough for him to lose his number one fan girl. Mr. Timewell leans back, arms crossed, looking disinterested, tapping his foot lightly against the floor.
"Very well, Dad. I will draft a Statement of Intent outlining that I will be your sole heir, thereby ensuring that any future children will not have a claim to the Lozero assets. Additionally, in the event of my passing, the assets will be distributed equally among all relatives. Once you have signed this document, we can proceed with the announcement of the engagement."