Chapter 244

Maya’s expression momentarily tensed, prompting Sharon to step in. “Alright, if Tim has to prioritize his

career, let him. We can continue with the engagement and make the most of it.”

At the mention of proceeding with the engagement, Maya managed to force a smile and apologized,

“Mrs. Barrett, I’m truly sorry about this.”

“I should be the one apologizing. Tim’s behavior is a bit out of line.”

“It’s okay: I understand that he’s caught up with work.” Maya smiled, yet her eyes remained devoid of

warmth.

Despite her internal frustrations, she couldn’t afford to abandon the engagement ceremony.

Shelly seized the opportunity to inquire, “Maya, where is Mia? Wasn’t she supposed to be here today

too?”

Frustrated, Maya turned to Felix, demanding, “Where is Mia? What happened to her?”

“Her phone is off, and we’re unable to contact her. I’m not sure if there’s a conflict with her adoptive

parents,” Felix responded, expressing growing concern for Mia’s well–being.

Shelly sneered, “I suppose Mia may be harboring some guilt and is hesitant to show up. Given the

unfolding dynamics of the engagement, she may lack the courage to face everyone.”

“Who said I wouldn’t dare to come?”

At this moment, Mia entered, appearing somewhat disheveled with a minor injury at the corner of

her mouth.

She had just run into trouble with Bob and Mary outside her neighborhood.

A brawl ensued between them on the main road, and to top it off, her phone got stomped and

broken–a series of unfortunate events.

Ignoring the pain, Mia turned to Felix, asking, “Felix, are there any issues at the venue?”

“Everything is progressing smoothly without any problems,” Felix assured.

Mia then addressed Maya, saying, “Did you hear that? There are no issues.”

Maya wore a displeased expression. “The engagement hasn’t even begun; how would I know if

there aren’t any problems?”

“Well then, let’s commence.” Mia declared.

+15 BONOS

Her words brought an immediate hush to the surroundings.

Noticing Maya’s hostile expression, Mia glanced around and remarked, “According to the schedule, the

engagement ceremony should have begun by now. Why hasn’t it started yet?”

The situation was undeniably peculiar. Not only had the engagement ceremony failed to commence,

but Mia also noticed the conspicuous absence of Timothy.

Suspicious, Mia inquired, “Where’s the groom?”

Struggling to maintain her composure, Maya uttered, “Due to some urgent work, Tim had to leave. but

the engagement will continue as planned.”

Adopting a triumphant demeanor, Sharon interjected, “Exactly, the engagement will continue.

Tim’s absence due to work isn’t a hindrance.

“As long as both families consent, that’s what matters. It epitomizes a well–matched marriage, a

union characterized by equal standing.”

Mia remained composed and shifted her gaze to the relatives‘ seats. “Oh, and what about the bride’s

family? Did none of them show up?”

Shelly quickly chimed in. “Maya’s brothers are also quite busy and had some matters to attend to.”

Mia raised an eyebrow and quipped, “With no groom and family members in sight, an unsuspecting

observer might mistake you and Sharon for the ones getting married.”

Maya’s expression immediately soured. How dare Mia make such a statement!

Shelly swiftly interjected. “Maya, don’t let it bother you. Some people are just envious. The less they

have, the more they covet.”

Mia glanced over with a smirk. “Well, look who’s boldly making an appearance already. It seems you

not only carry a carefree attitude but also a courageous spirit.”

Shell

Shelly’s expression grew uneasy. She detested it when people brought up this matter, particularly

Mia!

Stepping forward, Shelly prepared to deliver a slap to Mia’s face, declaring, “I’ve been wanting to teach

you a lesson for a long time!”