On an autumn evening, Wayne's mansion stood serenely under the orange sunset. However, this peace was about to be shattered. Wayne had just finished a busy day at work and returned home, only to be summoned to his parents' study.
Inside the study, Wayne's father, James, sat behind a large desk, his expression stern. Wayne's mother, Elizabeth, sat beside him, her eyes filled with worry. Wayne entered the room, sensing an unusually heavy atmosphere.
---
A few days earlier, during the club gathering, Georgia had discovered that Wayne was very serious about his feelings for Hailey. Consumed by jealousy, she decided to use this information against Hailey. She found an opportunity to casually mention it to Wayne's parents.
"Uncle, Aunt, I've heard that Wayne has been very attentive to a female college student recently. He even took her to an amusement park. Her name is Hailey, and I believe her family background isn't very good," Georgia said nonchalantly.
Elizabeth frowned, "Georgia, is this true? How could Wayne be interested in such a girl?"
Georgia nodded, "Yes, I was surprised too, so I thought I'd check with you."
James's face darkened further. "It's absurd that Wayne would do something like this. We must stop him. Marriage is not something to be taken lightly."
---
In the study, James said coldly, "Wayne, I hear you've been very attentive to a female college student at the company and even took her to an amusement park. Is this true?"
Wayne nodded, though he wasn't sure how his father had found out about this. He looked his father in the eye and said, "Yes, Dad. Her name is Hailey. She is a very talented and hardworking girl. My respect and admiration for her are genuine."
Elizabeth sighed softly and said gently, "Wayne, we know you're grown up and have your own thoughts and choices. But is this girl really suitable for you? Her family background is very different from ours, and we're worried that such a relationship could affect your future."
James added coldly, "You need to understand that you are the heir to this family. Every choice you make affects the family's interests. We can't allow you to jeopardize the family's reputation and future over a girl with an unknown background."
Wayne felt a surge of anger but tried to stay calm. "Dad, Mom, I understand your concerns. But Hailey is an outstanding person, and I believe she will prove her worth."
James sneered, "Prove her worth? What can she bring? What benefits can she provide to the family? Wayne, you are too naive. In a family like ours, only power and benefits matter. Since you were born to enjoy these, you must bear the responsibilities that come with them."
Wayne felt a chill in his heart. He knew his father was ruthless, but he hadn't expected him to be so unfeeling. He turned to his mother, hoping for some support, but her eyes only held helplessness and worry.
"Wayne, I know this is hard for you to accept, but it's for your own good," Elizabeth said softly. "We hope you can find someone truly suitable for you to build the future of this family together."
Wayne took a deep breath and said firmly, "I respect your opinions, but I will not give up on Hailey. I believe she is worth fighting for."
James's face grew even darker. He stood up and walked to Wayne, speaking in a low, threatening voice. "Wayne, I'm giving you one last chance. If you don't break up with that girl, I'll strip you of your inheritance rights in the company and even expel you from the family."
Wayne was shaken. He had never seen his father so ruthless. He knew this was not an empty threat; once his father made a decision, he would not easily change it.
"Dad, Mom, I hope you understand that while I respect your opinions, my choices are also my own," Wayne said resolutely.
James looked at him coldly and finally said, "Then be prepared to face the consequences."
---
Leaving the study, Wayne felt heavy-hearted. He knew that being born into such a family came with responsibilities, but he couldn't understand why marriage and love had to be used as bargaining chips. Why should he sacrifice his feelings for the family's sake?
Returning to his room, Wayne sat at his desk, replaying his parents' words in his mind. He knew his father's threats were serious, but he couldn't give up on Hailey. His feelings for her were deepening, and he believed she was worth fighting for.
Just then, his phone rang, displaying Hailey's name. Wayne answered, trying to keep his voice calm. "Hailey, what's up?"
On the other end, Hailey's voice carried a hint of concern. "Wayne, are you okay? You seemed troubled today."
Wayne smiled wryly, "I'm fine, just some family issues. By the way, are you free tomorrow? I'd like to go out and relax with you."
Hailey chuckled softly, "Of course, I'm free. I was hoping to relax with you too."
Wayne felt a warmth in his heart. Hailey always knew how to comfort and support him when he needed it most. He decided that no matter what, he would stand firm, because he knew that being with Hailey was the only thing that truly made him happy.
---
The next day, Wayne and Hailey went to a park in the countryside. The scenery was beautiful, the air fresh, and the two walked slowly along the path, enjoying the rare peaceful time.
"Wayne, have you been having trouble lately?" Hailey asked, looking at him with concern.
Wayne nodded and sighed, "Yes, some family issues, but I'll handle it. Don't worry."
Hailey said softly, "If there's anything I can do to help, please let me know. I'll always support you."
Wayne held Hailey's hand, feeling a surge of warmth and strength. "Thank you, Hailey. Your support means a lot to me."
They smiled at each other, feeling a deep sense of reliance and trust in the tranquility of the park.
---
However, things were not that simple. James had not given up on pressuring Wayne. He began using his influence to attack Hailey from various angles.
One day, Wayne received an urgent call from the company, informing him that Hailey was facing severe issues at work and was at risk of being fired. Wayne rushed to the company, finding the situation worse than he had imagined.
In the conference room, Wayne saw Hailey surrounded by several senior executives, being questioned. The so-called issues were clearly exaggerated and distorted. Wayne felt a surge of anger and immediately stepped forward to defend Hailey.
"These accusations are unfounded. Hailey has always done excellent work. There must be some misunderstanding here," Wayne said coldly.
A senior executive frowned at Wayne. "Wayne, we know about your relationship with Hailey, but this matter concerns the company's interests. We must take it seriously."
Wayne responded calmly, "I understand the importance of the company's interests, but I won't let anyone falsely accuse my employee. I will personally investigate this matter and ensure Hailey gets justice."
Due to Wayne's insistence, the senior executives agreed to temporarily suspend any actions against Hailey pending further investigation. Wayne knew his father was behind this but had no easy way to prove it.
After leaving the conference room, Wayne and Hailey walked to the company terrace, overlooking the city nightscape. Hailey's eyes were filled with helplessness and frustration. She said softly, "Wayne, how can we handle so much pressure?"
Wayne put his arm around her shoulders, comforting her. "Hailey, I know it's hard, but I'll always be by your side, facing all challenges with you. I believe we can overcome these obstacles."
Hailey nodded, moved. She knew Wayne's care was sincere, but she also understood that their relationship would face countless challenges and pressures. She said softly, "Wayne, I'll face all difficulties with you. I believe our effort and sincerity can overcome everything."