âI implore that you entrust Carrie to me Despite my past, I will work to become a good man and the only
man for Carrie. I will treat her right, even better than Justin toward Ms. Thompson, and I swear on my
life to make her the happiest woman. I love Carrie. I hope you will give me your blessing to date Carrie
with the intention of marrying her.â Nervous, Ryan gripped Carrie a little too tightly, and his voice
trembled.
Bella looked askance at Ryan. Her expectations for Ryan were low since Justin served as the
benchmark for relationships.
Justin stared at Ryan peevishly, doubting the latter could do better than him.
Ryanâs expression hardened, and his prepared speech tumbled out in a rush. Yet, his eyes held an
undeniable sincerity.
The words must have been weighing on him for a long time.
Nigel let out a wry smile. Ryan reminded him too much of Justin.
âAhem. Iâm not suspecting you of anything. I just-â
Even though Gregory had been in the business world for over three decades, he was overwhelmed by
the young man for a change. He quickly pulled himself together and looked Ryan in the eye. âAs at
father, I hope my daughters will find the right men and start a family. together. But I need to make a few
things clear-â
âI know what youâre about to say.â
Ryan could not look any more serious. âSay no more. I get it. I know everything about Carrie. Sheâs the
only woman for me. We have kept it real, sharing everything, including a bed-â
âWhat? Donât tell y-y-you slept with my preciousâ¦.â Nigel pointed at Ryan, shuddering with fear.
Ryan waved his arm in a panic. âYou got the wrong idea, Grandpa Nigel! I never laid a finger on Carrie.
Donât take things the wrong way.â
Carrie did not get it at first. At that point, she blushed hard and buried her head in the manâs arms.
Bella curled her lips as Carrie relied on Ryan.
It was a much-needed assurance for Bella.
If Ryan were the man destined for Carrie, she would still pick him even when the world stood against
her.
The situation was just like back when Bella put everything on the line and chose Justin.
Ryanâs out-of-the-blue confession was a heavy blow-to Gregory.
However, now was not the time to talk about it, so Gregory put the matter aside.
âJustin!â
Carrie paced toward the bed, her eyes reflecting worry. âRyan said you injured your head. How do you
feel? Does it hurt?â
Justin caressed his sisterâs face and replied tenderly, âIt doesnât hurt. Your sister-in-law saved me. She
took great care of me.â
Ryan was jealous of the bond between Justin and Carrie, even thought they were siblings.
âThatâs great to hear.â
Carrie suddenly grabbed Bellaâs hand and dangled it. She asked eagerly, âCan you stay with Justin,
Bella? Can you take care of him. until his release from the hospital? Heâll be happy and get better soon
if you stay by his side.â
As her heart skipped a beat, Bella pressed her lips together.
Justin gazed at her with anticipation. He looked like a lonely, stray puppy with tears in his eyes.
The siblings knew exactly how to manipulate her emotions.
âI wonât shy away from my responsibility because your brother was injured because of me.â
Bella curled her lips. âI will nurse him back to health.â
âYay!â Carrie clapped her hands excitedly.