Eugene Jr.'s Solution

In this era, marriages were mostly arranged by parental decree and the word of matchmakers. The concept of marital freedom simply didn’t exist.

Even if a man was deeply in love with a woman, if his parents didn’t approve, it was all for nothing.

Eugene Warren’s father was the head steward in Uncle Arthur’s household—a respected figure, surely hoping to arrange a suitable match for his son. Belle’s background was once a perfect fit for Eugene, but after what happened, even if Eugene himself didn’t care, his parents would never accept a daughter-in-law with such a past. Their hearts would always hold a grudge, and they’d never let their son marry a woman like that.

Lily Evans watched Eugene Warren closely, and sure enough, when the issue of his parents was raised, his expression immediately darkened.

“Eugene, I know you’re a reliable man and a good match. But Belle’s situation is truly special—if you’re not absolutely certain, I advise you not to pursue her. Otherwise, you’ll both end up heartbroken.” Lily cautioned.

Eugene Warren didn’t respond right away. He lowered his head, his hands clenched tightly at his sides, struggling to contain the storm of emotions raging within him.

After a long silence, Eugene finally spoke, his voice low but resolute. “Miss Lily, I’ve thought it through. I’m not afraid of what others might say. I want to marry Belle, not for anyone else’s sake, but for my own.”

Lily Evans gave him a long, searching look. "You know what that means, Eugene? Once you take this step, there’s no turning back. You’ll be standing against tradition, against your own parents. Are you ready for that?"

Eugene Warren looked up, meeting Lily’s eyes. "I’m ready. If I don’t fight for Belle now, I’ll regret it for the rest of my life."

Belle, who had been silently standing nearby, couldn’t hold back her tears. She turned away, her shoulders trembling, afraid to let anyone see her vulnerability.

Uncle Arthur and Aunt Charlotte exchanged glances, their faces full of concern. They both knew how difficult the road ahead would be for these two.

Lily Evans let out a quiet sigh, then smiled at Eugene. "So, what’s your plan?" she asked, her tone light but her eyes serious.

Eugene Warren straightened his back, a hint of determination flashing in his eyes. "I’ll go home and talk to my parents. If they won’t listen, I’ll move out and start my own household. I’ll do whatever it takes to marry Belle."

Lily Evans couldn’t help but laugh. "You’re really prepared to risk it all for Belle, aren’t you?"

Eugene Warren smiled, a rare warmth in his expression. "She’s worth it."

Belle wiped her tears, her lips trembling as she tried to smile. "Eugene, don’t make promises you can’t keep," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Eugene Warren stepped closer, his gaze unwavering. "Belle, I promise you—I’ll keep every word. No matter what happens, I won’t let you down."

The tension in the room finally eased. Uncle Arthur patted Eugene on the shoulder, while Aunt Charlotte quietly comforted Belle. Lily Evans watched them, her heart full of hope and worry for the future.