Mrs. Ormond had heard a bit about the Labbe family in Havenmill. She said, âWealthy families often
fight, both openly and secretly, becoming enemies. Itâs rare to find a family that doesnât have internal
struggles. Even close relatives can turn against each other for personal gain.â
Elora replied, âDuring a business trip, I heard the Farrell family in Jensburg is having major issues.
The previous matriarchâs descendants and the current matriarch are fighting over control of the
family. Some even say the new matriarch killed the old one. Who knows whatâs true? But itâs a big
deal, and people are talking.â
Mrs. Ormond sighed, âWe shouldnât worry about other families. Our own family must stay united.
We canât let division tear us apart.
Elora, we need to relax and not get too involved in small things. The more we care about every little
issue, the more likely conflict will arise. Weâre all family, and itâs better if everyone is happy.
Since there arenât many men in our family, we must stick together. If we fight among ourselves, our
enemies will sit back and watch us fall apart. They wonât have to do anything, just wait for us to
destroy each other.â
Elora agreed, âMom, I know. My sisters and I are close, and they respect me as the eldest. Even
our uncles and aunts are reasonable people.
When we marry, weâll choose good men, not the kind who just want our familyâs wealth. We wonât let
anyone come between us and cause us to fight.â
Elora was a seasoned businesswoman, running a large company. She had been in the industry for
years and was always rational. Her younger sister and cousin were also practical, not easily swayed
by emotions.
âGood, thinking like that puts us at ease. Everyone trusts and relies on you,â Mrs. Ormond said with
satisfaction, proud of Eloraâs leadership.
But Mrs. Ormond worried about finding a suitable husband for Elora. âYouâre so exceptional that I
donât know who would be worthy of you. Thereâs no one in our city good enough. I donât want you to
marry far away, but I also donât see any strong men willing to marry into our family. Iâm so concerned
about your future.â
Elora took a sip of water that Joly had poured for her and smiled. âMom, Iâve told you before, Iâm not
in a hurry. Iâll let fate take its course. When the time is right, Iâll find a good man. If I donât, then I
wonât marry and you can take care of me forever.â
Mrs. Ormond replied, âItâs not about us supporting you. Your parents will grow old and wonât be
around forever. Your brothers and sisters will marry and have their own lives, and youâll be left
alone. Itâs lonely without a companion. Marriage is about having someone to talk to and grow old
with.â
Elora, unfazed, said, âWhen my brothers and sisters have children, Iâll treat them like my own and
build strong bonds. When Iâm old, theyâll be there for me, and when I die, theyâll handle my funeral.
These days, even those without family donât have to worry about being taken care of. A quick call to
the funeral home, and itâs all sorted out. Itâs not as complicated as it used to be.â