Ch. 2841..2850

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2841-"When you say 'responsibility', what is it that you're referring to?" Sherman asked. "I recall explaining everything in vivid detail to you back then, and I left only after I ensured Rita's safety. Why are you now presenting this surveillance footage to me and demanding I shoulder some form of responsibility?"

He shrugged and stared at Vince, unable to fathom his intentions. "Did you even seek Rita's consent before coming to my place today?"

"No, of course not," Vince retorted, a wry smile playing on his lips. "I purposely refrained from doing so because I know she'll try to stop me. I'm sure you're aware of how much damage gossip can inflict upon a young woman. That is precisely why I am asking you to take responsibility. I believe she'd be a suitable match for you."

Sherman could not help but be entertained by Vince's audacity. He lounged on the sofa and glanced at the shameless middle-aged man before him. "And what makes you believe that?"

Though Sherman never intended to disparage Rita, her father's coercion left him little choice but to push back.

Vince's expression soured. "You can look down on me right now, but once the surveillance video makes its rounds, you'll still have no choice but to marry her."

"Are you trying to force me into marrying her?" Sherman asked callously as he tapped his fingers lightly on the sofa's armrest.

"That's right. Consider it a means of forging ties. Besides, it's not as though you don't have any feelings for Rita, right? Why else would you go all the way to the hotel from your company just to rush to her aid? Young people tend to have a lot of shared interests, so nurturing a relationship after marriage will probably come very easily."

Sherman chuckled softly. "Only you could make such a request, Mister Vince.

The Russells' fortunes must've gone through a tremendous decline lately, and you seem to be rather anxious to try and turn things around."

Though Vince had sensed Sherman's reluctance, he remained steadfast in his mission to get Sherman's approval. If that remained out of grasp, then Vince would happily reach out to Sherman's family, and he believed that Sherman's elders would not stand to see Sherman act that way.

"This isn't about my company's plummeting stocks," Vince countered. "I simply want you to embrace the responsibilities that a man should bear. If this video surfaces, it won't just be our company's stocks that will plummet. In this day and age, integrity and morality are necessary in power. The shareholders will be sorely disappointed if the president of the Parr Group displays such blatantly irresponsible behavior."

characteristics of ummet.

Vince's words carried a weighty threat that aimed squarely at Sherman, not that Sherman was moved by it anyway.

"Feel free to play your hand and post this video online," Sherman challenged. "d be interested to see if that tiny bit of affection your daughter still has for you will continue to remain after that. No.

father in their right mind would exploit their daughter for personal gain, would they? And besides, you now have a second wife and a stepdaughter. I'm sure your image as a father will be laid bare for all to see."

Truer words had never been spoken.

Sherman knew that Vinge was simply trying to intimidate him.

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2842-Naturally, Vince knew that the pivotal weakness of Sherman before him lay not in the company, but in the familial network backing him. That alone provided a glimpse into a facet that was completely different from his assertive demeanor in the business world.

"I'll have no other choice if you are uncooperative. I'm quite curious to know what your parents and grandparents would think if they learned of this?" Vince's tone carried a veiled threat.

Sherman's expression changed abruptly. While he could endure any personal affront, he could not stand the thought of his family being involved in it. He did not expect Vince to have a means of contacting his family members whom he had endeavored to shield from the public eye for so long. Few in the business

realm were privy to Sherman's family, much less his strong familial support. "I've underestimated you," Sherman admitted. A faint smile barely masked his smoldering anger.

Vince was determined to see that things went his way, so he could not afford to capitulate easily. With a forced grin, he urged, "That you have. I am simply saying this because I want you to reconsider my proposition, rather than dismissing it outright."

"Has anyone ever advised you to think twice before speaking? If not, perhaps you should ask your daughter. That's something she excels in," Sherman retorted impassively. "Feel free to approach my family if you're not afraid of the consequences."

With that, he summoned his secretary to see Vince off. Just as Vince was about to be ushered through the door, Sherman's words cut through the air, "Make sure no dogs are allowed in here again."

Vince clenched his fists in humiliation, knowing full well that such indignities were the price of his choices. He would have to endure insults to achieve his goals-that was a risk he was prepared to take even if it meant breaching no Sherman's guarded weaknesses by involving his family.

The Russells' situation left no room for hesitation. If he did not secure Parr Group's help, his family would be destroyed by his own hands. With a son on the way, he had to make the necessary preparations for the child.

When Vince left, Sherman stood alone before the floor-to-ceiling window and glanced at the diminutive figures walking on the street below. He believed that Rita would never stoop to such lows, but many of the details he spoke about had only been mentioned when he was on the phone with Rita. Vince's unwavering resolve to leverage the surveillance footage and marry her into the Parrs meant that Vince was incredibly confident.

Though he had not viewed the footage, the mere thought of it stirred an unease within him. Vince's face only intensified that discomfort. Sherman frowned and wrestled with his distress, wondering where had it all gone awry.

After some thought, Sherman decided to head home, fearing that Vince might make audacious claims to his family. Unlike his steely resolve his grandparents and parents were more soft-hearted.

Should they learn of what happened,

they would likely advocate for Sherman to marry Rita even without Vince's coercion. While there might still be a possible future for them to be romantically involved, a union forged through underhanded means was not the future Sherman wanted for them.

Unfortunately, Sherman had underestimated Vince's determination. By the time he m returned, he realized that it was already too late. Dinner had been prepared on the dining table, and the servant was waiting helplessly as if waiting for instructions to reheat the meal.

Sherman's parents and grandparents were seated solemnly in a circle around the sofa, each with a somber expression.

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2843-"The young master has returned!" the servants exclaimed in surprise, dispelling the tense atmosphere in the room.

However, on Sherman's return, Chelsea immediately told everyone to leave the room. Being well-trained servants, they did not ask for an explanation and withdrew silently, leaving Sherman and his family alone.

"You're frowning, Grandma. Is something the matter? I've been coming back home more frequently, haven't I?" Sherman remarked casually and settled right next to Chelsea.

Simona, Sherman's mother, frowned deeply at his nonchalance. "What's with the attitude?"

Sherman adjusted his tie and felt the weight of the day's work bearing down on him. The only time he could relax was when he was home. "What do you mean?

Why is everyone so on edge?"

"Why shouldn't we be on edge? Someone is claiming you're involved in some romantic entanglement with their daughter and is demanding you take responsibility for her. Care to explain?" Frank asked in an angry tone.

"You don't need to be so harsh. We can't say for sure if Sherman has done what he's been accused of doing. Besides, the surveillance footage could've been tampered. with," Simona interjected. She knew her son inside out, and there was no way he would be embroiled in such Scandalous affairs. Furthermore, there could have been a chance that Sherman had fallen for someone's scheme.

"I reacted that way out of disappointment because I know what kind of person my son is. Whatever the reasons may be, this, incident is being held against him right now. And to make things worse, the person behind all ne isn't just any ordinary person. His surname is Russell, and Russell Group is a renowned company too," said Frank, feeling a headache coming on. His son's independence meant they seldom intervened in his affairs.

Career-wise, Sherman had achieved more than what the entire family had ever achieved, so they were spared from worrying about that. However, it was in his personal life, particularly his romantic life, that they still harbored some concern for him.

"The father has spoken to us. It erne won't be that big of a problem if Sherman and the girl have feelings for each other, but we can't let m Sherman marry someone out of obligation if neither has feelings for the other! It's unfair to the daughter,' Roger remarked, gaining Chelsea's agreement.

'That's true. We cannot treat marriage lightly. Two people who do not love each other should not be forced to be together. Let's accommodate their demands as best we can in financial terms," Chelsea concurred, turning her gaze to Sherman who remained aloof.

"You're making a mountain out of a molehill. I've done nothing disgraceful, so please don't work yourselves up over this. I promise !I'll resolve this matter without implicating our family," said Sherman. Simona could not shake her concern. "But it must be such a pity for that girl, or else her father wouldn't have come over to seek us out. I feel like I should go and meet her."

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2844-Simona felt a twinge of concern for Rita because she knew Sherman was the kind of person who would not commit such misdeeds.

"Okay, that's enough. Please stop worrying about this. I promise I'll have it resolved within two days. This is the time for you to enjoy your retirement. I've said time and again not to worry so much about me, especially when it comes to relationship matters," Sherman said to them.

Chelsea grumbled, "We wouldn't be so worried if you had a girlfriend by now.

Now you ended up being set up, and I can't imagine how indecent she must be to act this way."

Sherman frowned and retorted instinctively, "That's out of character for her.

She's nothing like her father, and I'm quite sure that she doesn't have a single clue about what her father has done."

It was the first time Sherman had spoken up for someone else. The elders exchanged secretive glances, believing that there was a chance for Sherman to finally get a partner.

"If you truly have feelings for her, perhaps you should consider accepting their proposal. You'll at least have some control over what seems to be an uncertain situation," Sherman's father suggested. Sherman shook his head. "I can't say for sure, but I can vouch for her character."

With Sherman insisting on his point of view, the elders saw no reason to worry any further. Unfortunately, Vince's unexpected intrusion disrupted a longawaited family reunion, casting a pall over their happiness.

Unbeknownst to them, Vince had more tricks up his sleeve.

The following morning, Lucy sent an urgent message to Sherman as he was en route to work, asking him to respond promptly to her as soon as he read it.

Sherman noted Lucy's unusually distressed tone, which starkly contrasted the usual composure that so characterized her even during her first few months as an intern.

"Mister Sherman, an anonymous person sent a video of you with another woman to our company's email inboxes. The person is threatening to escalate the issue f you don't take responsibility. I've sent people to retrieve the videos, but I'm not sure if they've been leaked," Lucy explained in regret. She wondered if she could have done more to prevent such a breach, given her role as secretary.

Sherman's grip on the steering wheel tightened as veins protruded on his arms.

Vince proved more audacious than he anticipated. The person who had to suffer most out of everything was Rita, all while Vince remained behind the shadows.

Sherman was unable to control the situation like he wanted, and that inability was exacerbated by the fact that some individuals within their circle were privy to the video and brought it directly to his family's attention.

"Didn't you say you'd resolve this in two days, Sherman? Why is it getting more and more out of hand?"

Simona asked over the phone. "Even your grandfather's friends called to ask about it. His illness is acting up because of that, and so is your grandmother's."

Though his mother did not blame him for that, Sherman still seethed with anger when his cherished family suffered at the hands of other people.

His grandparents were both frail and no longer able to endure such stress. Sherman was grateful to com himself that he was able to keep his emotions in check before, but Vince's relentless actions were beginning to shatter that composure.

Fine, tell Dad that I'll oblige if the Russells are so keen on marrying their daughter to the Parrs. I want her to understand that the Parrs aren't so easily swayed," Sherman declared.

Simona remained apprehensive. "But didn't you say she has nothing to do with all this Don't you think she might feel hurt by your words?"

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2845-"She didn't return the courtesy I showed to her," Sherman lamented. "I believed her because I knew her character through our interactions together, but I now doubt her because there were certain things that I told her and her alone.

Please take good care of Grandpa and Grandma. You don't have to worry about the rest."

As she listened to her son's icy tone, Simona realized that there was no turning back anymore. Whatever affection they might have shared before would have been nipped right in the bud. The Parrs had been waiting for ages to know what sort of partner Sherman would end up with, yet none of them could have anticipated that his marriage would be a rushed one.

Simona sighed and could only wish the best for Sherman. As concerned as Sherman's elders were about him, it was not up to them to dictate what sort of life Sherman was supposed to live. He was already an adult, and he was capable of navigating his decisions and understanding their consequences. The sole issue that niggled her at that juncture was the prospect of having scheming people are their in-laws. When Simona returned, she shared Sherman's decision with the rest of the family. "We'll support him now that he's made his decision. I can only hope that the young lady doesn't come to regret this." Vince was caught off-guard to learn that Sherman would lower his ego and accept the proposal. When he received the message, he stood up with a smile in the meeting room, much to the surprise of his subordinates. It was not until his secretary reminded him about the situation that he snapped back to the present.

"Forgive my distraction. I forgot we were in a meeting because I just received news about my daughter's impending marriage. Please excuse my earlier behavior." His explanation satisfied his subordinates, who extended their congratulations.

"Congratulations! May we inquire as to who the lucky man is?" one of them asked.

Vince, however, remained cryptic about the details. "You'll know when the day comes. It's not very convenient to reveal it right now," he replied, evoking laughter from his subordinates, who found it rather puzzling that he would be so secretive over his daughter's marriage.

What Vince did not expect was that Sherman's acceptance had caused Karen to make up a fuss before Rita did, which was amusing given that Rita was the one who had been subjected to his scheming.

"What's the meaning of this, Vince?

Didn't I tell you that today's youngsters value the chance to choose who they wish to be with Why are you forcing Sherman and Rita to be together?" Karen asked. All that talk about choosin a partner was simply an excuse that masked her true agenda.

Vince was aware of what Karen and Sadie were thinking after noticing Sadie's infatuation with Sherman.

Still, he felt that the two of them should at least look in the mirror and know where they stand before entertaining such wishful thinking.

"You're carrying my child, and I won't argue with you. Remember, you're in my house, and I'm in charge. Know your place and don't just shoot your mouth off Vince responded . He did not even bother to stand up from his seat and simply pointed at Karen as he spoke. She was pregnant with his son, and he did not want to argue with her at that point. As long as she could carry his baby son to term, he could not care less about her temper tantrums.

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2846-Karen had long known about Vince's callousness, but his words cut deeper than she expected. She felt as if she held no significance as a person, and all that mattered to him was the fetus in her womb.

"Don't you care about anything else other than your son? How could you be so selfish? Did you consider Rita's feelings when you visited Sherman on an impulse? They were friends, but your actions will only make the situation awkward for them. How could you expect her to face Sherman again?" Karen's retort was rooted in some logic.

Vince fell silent for a moment before responding, "Everything I do is for the good of the family. Rita is older now, and I trust she'll be able to understand her father's decisions. Even if she disagrees with it on a personal level, she'd still be

able to see the bigger picture and see it as a means of salvaging her reputation." Vince paused for a moment.

"What's done is done, and even the strength of our business won't be enough to silence the rumors. And do you think anyone will marry Rita once word gets out?

Her options will be severely limited. As her father, I must consider her best interests. And besides, you're now carrying a child that will inherit my family's legacy. This is our child. Before you lose your temper in front of me, you should at least consider that Sadie isn't your only child."

Karen shrank back under Vince's gaze. She realized her oversight. Sadie had thrown a tantrum about wanting to marry Sherman, but she never even contemplated the fact that she was not worthy of Sherman She was not of the same social status, especially since was not even originally from the Russell household.

Vince's assurance that he would not deny her unborn baby's inheritance alleviated Karen's worries, though some concerns lingered.

"You know how stubborn Sadie is. She's still young, and this is her first time falling in love with someone. Seeing you set Rita up with the man Sadie likes is surely going to make Sadie feel sad," Karen explained. She was unusually compliant as she sat by Vince's legs and embraced him.

"Yes, you know that she's at an age where it's easy to get infatuated with guys.

Even if she kicks up a fuss, you'll be there to keep her in check right? This home belongs to us and our son. We must plan for his future," Vince reasoned, gently caressing Karen's belly.

She smiled and patted the back of his hand. "I don't think you can feel him when he's less than a couple of months old."

Surprised, Vince replied, "Of course I can! I have a bond with him because I'm his father. I sense his presence when I touch him."

Their laughter erased the earlier tension, and they conversed as if the disagreement had not occurred.

However, upon returning to her room, Karen found Sadie disheveled and in tears-a sight that startled her out of her wits.

"Oh, goodness me, Sadie! Don't you remember I'm pregnant? You could've scared me senseless," said Karen as she placed her hand tenderly on her belly.

Sadie felt her stomach churn. "Just because you're pregnant now doesn't mean I'm no longer your child, right?

Theard everything you and Vinge m talked about. Have you ever considered my feelings? I've told you so many times that I'm in love with Sherman, but you never supported me! All it took was a few words from Vince, and suddenly, this baby in your womb is now your favorite. Don't you see me as your child anymore?"

Karen glanced anxiously at the closed door and was relieved that no one overheard Sadie, "Why are You!

talking Nike that? You've always.

called him 'Daddy'. Why are you calling him by his name? Why is your attitude getting worse?"

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2847-Karen's impatience did not sit well with Sadie.

"Do you think the people in our circle are stupid? They know that I'm not his daughter, and he's not even my real father! I don't even know who my real father is," Sadie retorted sarcastically, leaving Karen feeling awkward.

"You're getting bolder as you grow older. This is no way to talk to your mother!

Do you think it was easy for me to marry Vince? You say you like Sherman and you insist on marrying him, but have you ever considered that you never even had the Russell surname before this? What do you have that will make you a good fit for them?

"I've given my all to help you, but what have you done? Have you made any effort? All you do is blame me, and you never even consider the challenges I face. Rita is only marrying him because of some unfortunate circumstance_"

"Some unfortunate circumstance? That's a nice way to put it. That was nothing more than Vince blackmailing Sherman! What a disgrace!" Sadie interrupted.

Karen's frustration surged. Her daughter seemed to care for nothing except Sherman, going so far as to completely disregard the mother who had provided her with such a privileged life. If their surname were still Parr, their life would be confined to that dilapidated alley surrounded by darkness. It was a life Karen never wanted to return to.

"It looks like you've enjoyed too many luxuries and forgotten how much we had to struggle to reach this point. Can't you see beyond your infatuation for that man and remember our goals?"

Sadie shot back, incensed, "I remember. But do you? You only see yourself, your unborn baby, and Vince as a family! You've forgotten all about me even though I still depend on you! If you can't help me, then I'll just rely on myself appreciate it if you don't try and stop me."

As Sadie attempted to storm out, Karen grasped her wrist. "What are you doing? Sherman and Rita'sOm marriage is settled. Don't cause trouble; that's a warning. You can't afford to bear the consequence, Karen cautioned, her voice tense.

Sadie rolled her eyes and snapped, 'That's because you're too scared of doing anything. What can you achieve by being so timid? How dich!

end up with such a useless mother who couldn't even provide me with anything? Since you couldn't give me a proper family or a better status, I'll find a way to attain it on my own.

Now let go of my hand! Don't stop me from trying to achieve my happiness. You can still be Sherman's mother-in-law and enjoy the benefits after I make him mine."

Karen was speechless at her daughter's audacity and ignorance Fuming, she released Sadie's hand and stepped back. "Fine, go ahead, then. But don't come crying to me when things go wrong."

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2848-Karen added, "And another thing-don't mention that I'm your mother if you end up in any trouble. You will face the consequences yourself." Sadie then slammed the door in anger as she left.

Karen settled onto the sofa and patted her chest to calm her emotions. Never had they exchanged such harsh words despite quarreling numerous times over the years. Hearing Sadie berate her for being unable to offer anything left her feeling genuinely disheartened.

Karen was aware that she had a disadvantaged background, but she did not let that put her down and strived relentlessly to elevate their status. Having the Russell surname was proof of her unyielding effort, and she regretted that Sadie was so blinded by love that the sacrifices Karen made over the years went

unacknowledged simply because Sherman was all she could think of. Sadie seemed to have focused on what Karen had failed to provide, rather than what Karen had succeeded in securing for her.

Rita had not yet returned home, but Sadie had paid her an abrupt visit. Still in a petulant mood following her encounter with Sherman, Rita had no desire to return home or see her family at a time when she considered herself not of the right mind. Before she could even gather her thoughts, she was confronted by Sadie's imposing figure.

"What are you doing here?" Rita asked as she was seated on the sofa with her arms folded. Having just been discharged from the hospital, her complexion remained pale, and she resembled a fragile beauty. Sadie felt a pang of sorrow.

So long as she stood beside Rita, everyone could tell who was the Russells' genuine daughter. Sadie found it unfair. Lineage seemed to dictate everything even though she could not choose who she was born to, not to mention the tireless effort she had put in to change her fate.

Rita probably found amusement in everything. After all, it had taken Sadie years and years to attain what Rita had been born into, and Rita's indifference toward the entire thing further fueled Sadie's resentment.

"Don't play dumb," Sadie lambasted. "I told you I had dibs on Sherman. Why do you have to become the third party in this?"

Rita was baffled by Sadie's accusation; it seemed to imply that Rita was in a relationship with Sherman.

"I have no idea what you're talking about. If you're here to cause trouble, I suggest you leave now. Your presence is unwelcome," Rita replied, her energy depleted by Sadie's irrational behavior.

"Stop acting stupid. The incident at the hotel was a trap that you set! You're a shameless hoe! You want Sherman all to yourself! Who were trying to deceive when you pretended not to care at the dinner party? And why would he interested in you if you hadn't put on that act?" Sadie sneered with a condescending gaze.

Rita was fuming, but she found herself laughing bitterly. She did not deny that Sherman hailed from a privileged background, which created an even bigger gap between them. Rita acknowledged that, but she never doubted that she was worth his company. Beyond her

Russell surname, she was an independent individual who possessed her own distinct c o m personality, physique, beauty, and abilities. She was the full package. To say that she was unworthy of Sherman would be complete and utter rubbish.

Moreover, it was Sadie who had once given her the advice to marry om someone of a higher standing. Had Sadie and Karen forgotten what they did to become part of the Russells?

Sadie had no right to declare Rita unfit.

"A mistress' daughter is not entitled to judge my worth," Rita remarked pointedly.

Rita was so exhausted that she got up slowly from her chair, but this com seemed like a display of calmness and composure in Sadie's eyes, She felt as though Rita was displaying a dismissive attitude that looked down on her.

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2849-"Watch your words. Who are you calling a mistress' daughter? My mother brought me into this marriage after your mom died!" Sadie retorted sharply.

Rita could never stand it when Sadie mentioned her mother's death so frivolously. It was a topic too painful to be treated lightly. Her expression hardened quickly, and she said, "You of all people should know what sort of character your mother has. Mine passed away due to illness, but yours isn't as upright as you think. Just because I was young when you two came into my life doesn't mean I'm clueless about what's happening. I know much more than you think, so stop trying to put on an act."

She then said, trailing off, "You know, Sadie…"

Rita began to approach Sadie, prompting Sadie to instinctively retreat a couple of steps. The contrast in their heights became more pronounced as they drew nearer. Rita inherited her mother's height and graceful figure, but Sadie took after her father's shorter stature which she compensated by paying more attention to her figure since joining the Russells. However, her height remained a conspicuous flaw that rendered her forever inferior to Rita's stature.

"If you say that I'm not fit to be with Sherman, then you're even less worthy of him," Rita continued with a hint of amusement. "Just because you've borne the Russell name for years doesn't mean you're a genuine part of our family."

A soft laugh escaped Rita's lips, causing Sadie's face to turn red with embarrassment. Sadie knew that Rita had always looked down on her.

"What do you take yourself for? You're just born into privilege! Oh, I see—I can't measure up to you because your mother married Vince first. But it's a shame she's long gone. Vince loves my mother now…" Rita realized that her greatest error over the years was her excessive tolerance of Karen and Sadie. It made her an easy target for their bullying. They felt free to say and do as they pleased in her presence, believing that she would not resist. After Sherman's recent rebuke, however, Rita could no longer endure Sadie's comments. She lashed out and delivered a tight slap to Sadie's cheek.

Sadie was left stunned as she rubbed her stinging cheek. She was unable to regain her composure from that slap, as no one in the Russett household had dared to lay a hand on her until Rita's audacious act.

"Y-You!" Sadie's eyes welled with tears.

Rita's eyes widened in some surprise. "This is a pretty convincing performance.

Remember this when you're putting on the theatrics for my father next time.

You're not television actress, so your usual melodramatic display is hardly convincing."

"You just wait, Rita. I'll make you pay!" Sadie declared with tears streaming down her face.

Rita's impatience grew as she m listened, knowing that there was nothing Sadie and Karen could do to her.

Oh, I can wait. Now leave my house.

won't repeat myself," Rita. Com commanded, pointing firmly toward the door.

Defeated, Sadie clenched her jaw and swallowed her humiliation as she left.

Sadie seethed with hatred toward Rita, but she could at least find some comfort in knowing that ho. one else was home to witness their confrontation. If anyone were to see them like that, Sadie would have wanted to bury her head in the sand.

The Day I Kissed An Older Man Chapter 2850-"I will strip Rita of everything I hold dear. Then she'll finally wipe that smug, condescending smirk off her face for good!" Sadie vowed silently as she left Rita's residence.

Instead of heading home, Sadie made a beeline for the Parrs' residence with her face still bearing the marks of Rita's slap. She wanted to talk to Sherman.

Meanwhile, Sherman had yet to return home after informing his parents of his decision. Simona was troubled by her son's decision and had come to the company to talk to him. They were already together in his office.

"I've been thinking, and I realize I've been too harsh on you. Perhaps we should discuss this with the family…" Simona began, feeling uneasy about the situation.

Marriage was a serious matter, and she did not want her son to rush into it.

Pushing the girl seemed like a rather unnecessary decision.

However, Sherman remained indifferent. "If their family is so eager to marry into ours, then go ahead and let them do so. Whatever happens after the wedding is on her."

Simona, with her gentle disposition, could not bear to see him talk that way. She gently patted his hand and said, "You're taking this too hard. She's your friend, and there must have been some sort of misunderstanding. If it doesn't work out, we can provide whatever it is the Russells want. You've earned a lot of money anyway, so it wouldn't hurt to spend some of it."

Sherman chuckled at his mother's suggestion. "If everyone was as kind-hearted as you are, the world wouldn't be filled with so much crime. Anyway, I assure you that you can leave it to me. She is Vince's daughter, so she has to take responsibility too. I know what I'm doing. Besides, you, Dad, Grandpa, and Grandma have been wanting me to get married, right? I've already said I will, so the wedding will be held within a month."

Simona's anger flared at his words. "We want to see you start a family, not rush into marriage. Do you even like her at all? If you don't, then you shouldn't have to deal with this. Your father and I will help you. I wouldn't want you to deal with this marriage."

Sherman had been holding his coffee cup and had yet to get a sip. After some time, he finally said, "I've already said I'll marry her. Could you please stop trying to give me advice? You should spend your time traveling with Dad rather than dealing with this. I'll have the marriage papers ready once you return."

Simona knew how stubborn her son was, as he was always the kind of person who would never do something that he did not want to do. Just as she was about to continue, Lucy knocked on the door and interrupted them.

"Come in," Sherman beckoned.

Lucy came in awkwardly and said, Mister Sherman, this woman claiming to be Miss Rita's sister m insists on seeing you . We've told her that appointments are necessary; but she caused a scene in the lobby and was nearly too much to handle for the security guard. rather embarrassing."

Sherman frowned, knowing that it was Sadie. 'What's she up to now?' he wondered.

Simona was intrigued. "Let her come up. It must be important if she's so adamant on meeting Sherman she was some what curious about Rita's family too, and since Sherman had been so determined to marry-Rita, it was important to try and understand Rita from someone else's perspective.

Sherman had prepared to refuse, but he reluctantly agreed after hearing !!

What his mother said.