Tears welled up in her eyes as she said, “Are you being foolish? Why would you accept such a condition? You built the Larson Group from scratch with Brandon! The Larson Group is practically your child, isn’t it?”
She knew how important the Larson Group was to Garrett; otherwise, he wouldn’t have worked there for so many years. Now he was forced to leave what he had built so he could marry her.
“It must have been a difficult decision,” Garrett’s expression softened as he wiped away the tears from Laney’s eyes. He held her in his arms and spoke softly, “What else can I do? I can’t work at the Larson Group forever. My parents are getting older, and I need to take care of the family business sooner or later. Also, now I have something more important to protect than the Larson Group.”
Looking at him with tears in his eyes, Laney didn’t help stopping herself from crying even more.
Laney understood that Garrett had made a significant sacrifice for their relationship, and she was determined not to let him down. With a hoarse voice, she promised to be the best wife and make both Garrett and his parents proud. Garrett, amused by her words, laughed softly and kissed her forehead.
“Don’t change yourself for me, Laney,” he said affectionately. “Just be who you are. Okay?”
Laney knew that marrying into a wealthy family wouldn’t be easy, especially with Vera’s high standards for a daughter-in-law.
Now that they had his parents’ approval, Garrett began preparing for the wedding. Laney preferred a simple ceremony without many guests or media attention. However, news of their marriage spread, and even Garrett couldn’t prevent it from becoming a trending topic on Twitter.
During the wedding ceremony, the guests discussed the situation, particularly the women who had once pursued Garrett. He had been one of Seacisco’s most eligible bachelors, and Laney’s presence intrigued everyone.
Natalie, who had experienced a similar situation when she married Brandon, whispered to Laney while helping her with her wedding dress.
“Don’t pay attention to them. They’re just jealous. In Garrett’s eyes, you’ve already won.”
Laney smiled but felt an indescribable sadness. She worried about what life would be like after marriage. She had always enjoyed her carefree lifestyle, and she feared that Garrett might grow tired of married life.
“I heard Mrs. Harding is a gentle woman,” Natalie tried to console her. “I doubt she’ll make you suffer.”
Although Laney had never met Garrett’s mother, she knew that Garrett loved her deeply. If he could convince his parents to accept her as his wife, then maybe she could be protected from the harassment of the Harding family.
After their wedding, Laney entered the world of the upper class as Garrett gradually took over the family business. She accompanied him to parties and banquets, where some wealthy individuals mocked her. Laney had anticipated this situation when she agreed to marry Garrett, so she endured the insults and slander. no veloz com
Not long after their marriage, Vera called and instructed Laney to move into the Harding mansion. Laney was taken aback by the sudden order and nervously twisted the telephone cord as she responded, “Mom, I have professionals taking care of me. I don’t want to be a burden at home.”
“Nonsense! We are family,” Vera replied firmly. “I must take care of you. Besides, I’ve arranged etiquette classes and other necessary courses for you, including dancing, wine tasting, and art appreciation. As the future host of the Harding family, you must conduct yourself as a cultured lady. Don’t bring dishonor to the Harding family.”
Vera’s calm voice came through the phone, putting Laney at ease.
Laney realized that her mother-in-law didn’t despise her but was genuinely concerned.
“Mom, I understand,” Laney replied respectfully.
Vera sensed Laney’s hesitation and asked, “Is something bothering you, Laney? You can be honest with me now that we’re family.”
“No, nothing’s wrong. I just didn’t want to inconvenience you or dad. But since you insist, I’ll do as you say,” Laney replied, though still feeling uneasy. She knew Vera had good intentions, even if she wasn’t interested in the courses suggested.
It might be beneficial to learn about high-class customs, Laney thought.
The next day, Vera sent servants to help Laney pack her belongings.
After loading everything into the car, Laney officially moved into the Harding family home.
The Hardings owned luxurious mansions in Seacisco and Barnes.
To make it easier for Laney, Vera and Leo temporarily moved to Barnes.
Shortly after Laney settled in, her lessons began, and Vera started teaching her various things.
One morning at six, Laney was awakened by a servant.
Rubbing her sleepy eyes, she went downstairs and found Vera elegantly sipping coffee at the table. Vera was already dressed for the day, with impeccable makeup and perfume.
Vera always looked flawless and emphasized the importance of appearance and manners to Laney.
“Good morning, Laney. Did you sleep well?” Vera greeted, eyeing Laney up and down. “You look tired.”
Suppressing a yawn, Laney tried to compose herself. “No, no, I usually wake up at this hour.”
“Good girl. Nowadays, not many young people like to wake up early,” Vera said, satisfied. She glanced at Laney’s attire and added, “Usually, we dress before breakfast. Garrett must have forgotten to tell you. Well, you can have breakfast first and then go upstairs to change.”
Laney looked down at her pajamas, feeling embarrassed.
Trying to hide her nervousness, she quickly sat down at the table to eat.
After taking only a couple of bites, Vera reminded her, “You should stop eating when you’re halfway full. Overeating will make you feel tired and sluggish for the rest of the day.”
Vera paused and then smiled, saying, “But since you’re pregnant now, it’s okay to eat a little more.”
