No More Waiting, She Chooses Love novel Chapter 31

"Felicia, I've prepared a grand celebration dinner for tonight. I've even invited all our friends and family. Make sure you're back by six, okay?"

Jacqueline's words caught me off guard. It dawned on me that she was unaware that Conrad and I hadn't gotten our marriage license. It seemed Conrad hadn't spilled the beans, probably fearing a scolding after last night's cold reception.

Hearing the joy and anticipation in Jacqueline's voice, I felt a pang of guilt about breaking the news to her. Conrad and I not getting married was a settled matter, a temporary secret we couldn't keep forever. Especially not now.

If all the guests showed up, things would be more embarrassing for her.

"Jacqueline," I called out to her softly.

"Oh, sweetheart, what’s the matter? You're my daughter-in-law now. We’re family. If Rad dares wrong you, let me know. I’ll kick his ass." Jacqueline joked.

My heart, which had been numb, suddenly felt heavy. "Jacqueline, I'm so sorry. I, I might never have the right to be your daughter-in-law."

For ten years, there were countless times I wished I could be her daughter-in-law. But that dream would never come true.

"What do you mean?" Jacqueline sounded confused. "Felicia, if you're uncomfortable about the new role, that's okay. We’ll remain everything the same..."

"We didn't get the license," I cut Jacqueline off, "and we never will."

"What?" Jacqueline was stunned. "What happened? Felicia..."

I felt a heavy burden in my heart when I heard so. “Jacqueline..."

"I'm going to call Conrad. It must be something he did to hurt you," Jacqueline said before hanging up, leaving me with a bitter taste at her last words about Conrad wronging me.

Fanny held my hand, and I managed a broken smile at her. Looking into Fanny's bright, blue eyes, I saw a reflection of my shattered smile. On the outside, I appeared unscathed and calm, but my eyes betrayed my aching heart.

Jacqueline called again, but I didn't pick up. I knew she would want me to return to the Wagner family. But I didn't want to. Going back meant listening to Jacqueline and Herschel's well-meaning but ultimately futile attempts to persuade and comfort me.

I’d made up my mind, so there was no point in hearing them out. It would only waste their effort and drain my emotions further.