Faux Vows, True Desires novel Chapter 494

No matter who had influenced Olina's thoughts, when she spoke those heartfelt words to Cecilia, it was deeply touching.

Cecilia paused, looked at Olina, and said, "Auntie, thank you. With your blessings, Owen and I are sure to be happy."

"Auntie, I know my family doesn't come close to the stature of the Martinez family. Please believe that neither I nor my family are after your money. We won't accept any financial help from Owen, not before or after our wedding."

"Our family doesn't need any support. My dad and brother both have jobs. Sure, their salaries might seem modest to a wealthy household, but they're more than sufficient for an average family. After covering our expenses, we still manage to save a bit."

"My little shop is turning a profit now, and I'm expanding the business. As long as I manage it with care, I'm confident it'll continue to thrive. I love Owen for who he is, not for his wealth or status. I can support myself, and the money I earn is more than enough for me, with some to spare."

"Perhaps, in your eyes, I'm not the ideal daughter-in-law, but please give us a chance. If we can't get along after living together, Owen and I can move out. Keeping a distance might prevent any deepening conflicts."

Cecilia believed that once they spent time together, Olina would see her without prejudice, and they could live in harmony.

In Olina's words, they both loved the same man, and neither wanted to make life difficult for him.

Communication could resolve issues, unless someone was completely unreasonable.

The fear was that without giving each other a chance, understanding and communication would be impossible, only deepening the rift.

Love is about mutual giving.

Marriage and family require everyone's effort to flourish.

Olina knew Cecilia had a bright future, if only because she was Lucinda's close friend. Cecilia's prospects were boundless.

Cecilia was willing to give her a chance. If they could get along, maybe they could live in peace.

If not, then distance was the answer.

As long as Cecilia took good care of her son and kept him happy, Olina had no cause for dissatisfaction.

After all, what more could a parent wish for than their child's happiness?

"Cecilia, thank you."

Cecilia smiled, "And thank you, Auntie."

Their shared smile dissolved all enmity.

...

As Tiffany was pregnant and couldn't travel far for a honeymoon, Liam still whisked her away for a local retreat, a blend of relaxation and intimate couple time.

After waving the young couple off, Lucinda and her husband were set to follow her birth parents back to Skywatch.

Below Ascend Estate, the sprawling green was dotted with the Blue family's private jets.

Fiona held her daughter's hand, repeating her advice.

"Mom, I'll come back to visit you and dad often."

Lucinda tried to smile, but her eyes reddened, and she couldn't help but hug her mother.

This was the woman who had cared for her as her own daughter. No matter where Lucinda went, Fiona would always be her mom.

"Mom, I'll always be your daughter. When I'm not here, you, dad, and my grandparents should take care of yourselves. Don't work too hard. You're getting on in years and deserve some rest. My brother's company is doing well; you don't need to worry so much."

Ike's company was thriving, and his heart had found a home.

Vincent and his wife had nothing to fret over.

But for Fiona, who had raised Lucinda from the age of six months, sending her thousands of miles away, even with the Blue family's jets ready to bring her back at any time, was a painful farewell.

"Lucy, mom knows. Don't cry, it's not good to cry before a journey."

"Lucy will always be your daughter. She can visit anytime, and if you ever miss her, just let me know. I'll arrange for the jet to pick you up immediately."

Fiona dabbed her tears with a tissue, turning to Janice.

Janice had been downcast since waking up the day before, reluctant to see Nathan.

Today, they were all set to go back to Skywatch, and she had no choice but to face him.

"Hey sis, I'm fine."

Janice knew deep down that Fiona was really worried about her.

"Janice, what matters is your happiness. Let the past be the past, and let's look to the future."

Janice nodded in agreement.

Yes, look to the future.

The Andersons came by one by one to say their goodbyes.

They all made Stefan promise to take good care of Lucinda.

"Don't try to shoulder everything on your own. You're not made of iron; you're human, too."

Nathan replied with gratitude, "Thank you, Uncle Pat. Rest assured, if I need help, I won't hesitate to ask."

"Mhm, it's getting late. You better get going to catch your flight."

Mr. Anderson gave his grandson a pat on the shoulder, a world of unspoken understanding in the gesture.