Chapter 344
Did he know something?
Did he realize she had deceived him?
Deceiving the CEO of the Winston Group would have grave consequences... She couldn't help but shiver.
"Ivan, why are you asking this?" Mrs. Winston could no longer stand by silently and coldly interjected, "Isn't it a bit inappropriate to question a girl about these matters?"
"I'm suddenly not feeling well. May I go upstairs to rest?" Emily asked, her head lowered.
"Alfred, take Emily to the guest room," Mrs. Winston commanded indifferently.
On the way there, Alfred had been informed that Emily would be staying with the Winston family tonight and had already asked the staff to prepare a room. He picked up Emily's luggage and escorted her upstairs.
Once Emily was in her room, Mrs. Winston spoke softly, "It's been over a year since we've seen each other, son. Sit down; we need to have a good talk."
Ivan settled across from her on the sofa.
"I've been observing Emily these past few days. She has improved a lot from four years ago," Mrs. Winston remarked as she sipped her tea, "Though she's still not quite a match for you, she's nevertheless given the Winston family two children. You could try to accept her."
Ivan's voice was utterly detached: "If Mother wants to talk about this, then there's nothing to discuss."
"Do you plan never to take a wife?" Mrs. Winston frowned. "The Winston family does not have that tradition. You must marry someone to care for your children and manage your affairs..."
Ivan nodded slightly. "I've already chosen someone in my heart. There's no need for persuasion."
Mrs. Winston looked surprised. "You've fallen for another woman?"
Are we falling for someone?
That may be the case.
At least, he felt the stirrings of a man's desire for a woman toward Haley.
Ivan's fingers tapped on the table surface: "Yes."
Mrs. Winston was struck dumb.
Her son had always been aloof and indifferent, never giving any thought to women. Once, the daughter of a family friend had confessed her feelings for him, only to end up in tears, overwhelmed by his imposing demeanor.
Initially, Mrs. Winston was deeply concerned that her son would never find a wife, but after he had two children, she was a bit relieved. Yet Keith and Owen were both over four years old now, and Ivan still showed no signs of wanting to settle down. That's why she was getting impatient and a bit agitated.
It was also the reason she tried to play matchmaker between Emily and her son.
Mrs. Winston set down her coffee. "Whose daughter has caught your fancy?"
"You'll see her at tomorrow's birthday party. She'll come to celebrate, and then you'll know," Ivan replied, pursing his lips.
If he had to marry someone, Haley seemed like the best choice. The idea of her being his wife wasn't at all repugnant to him—in fact, he felt a vague sense of anticipation.
...
The Winston family rarely hosted social gatherings.
For the past few years, Mrs. Winston's birthday parties have been held abroad, and the folks from the Cuenca social circle last went to Winston's villa three or four years ago. Tonight's private and intimate gathering was a special affair; only close family friends and significant business partners were in attendance.
As dusk fell, the Winston family welcomed the first guests. Emily was upstairs with Mrs. Winston in the dressing room, helping her change. She had spent the night at the Winston home and looked remarkably refreshed. The pink velvet dress she wore highlighted her vibrant complexion.