At the intersection ahead, Serena turned the steering wheel, glanced at the road across and checked the cars in her rearview mirror as she said:
"Anything works. My schedule is pretty flexible—it mainly depends on you and Grandpa Grant."
Marriage had become a matter of meticulous calculation—pure benefit, without any surprise or expectation. Announcing it whenever made no difference.
They turned onto Crestwood Avenue. The road was quiet, with faint, dusky lighting glancing across Serena's flawless and ethereal profile. She looked emotionless—silent, and beautiful.
"Serena, things aren't like they used to be now." Jasper said, "Don't let yourself get hurt just to accommodate others."
"I won't."
Serena had endured so much grievance in the past, but now she refused to let herself end up in that kind of situation. Whatever the outcome, she faced it calmly and clearly.
After a short silence, Serena added, "If marrying you helps, I don't feel wronged."
