?<strong>Chapter 1189:</strong>


    “How are things progressing with Juliet?” Gerry shifted topics, his tone casual but purposeful.


    Cliff reached for a ss of water, his throat suddenly parched. “We’ve coborated on several business ventures. Nothing more.”


    “No private dates?” Gerry inquired.


    “None whatsoever,” Cliff stated firmly.


    “Our father’s been hesitant to approach you directly, so he sent me to gauge the situation. He’s even suggested a wedding before year’s end. Would you consider it, Cliff?”


    A peculiar weight settled in Cliff’s chest as he considered his response. “We’ll see how our dad arranges it. If everything aligns, perhaps.”


    Gerry released a heavy sigh, disappointment evident in his features. “You might resolve one dilemma, but what of Laney? Your wedding day would shatter her heart. But maybe this might be what she needs—a harsh lesson in not letting men deceive her so easily, learned through you.”


    Cliff’s fingers tightened around his ss as he abruptly changed course. “Who else knows about our aunt’s adoption of Laney, beyond our family?”


    Gerry’s brow furrowed in contemtion. “No one, I believe. Our aunt only revealed it during her illness. She guarded that secret fiercely, fearing Laney would face rejection.”


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    Curiosity flickered across Gerry’s face. “Has someone uncovered her background? Is someone bullying her?”


    “No one would dare.” Cliff’s voice was steel, his lips pressed into a thin line as he wrestled with emotions he couldn’t quite name.


    Gerry studied him intently. “Listen up, Cliff. Being kind to Laney is one thing, but don’t take it too far. She’s young. The more attention you give her, the harder it’ll be for her to let go.”


    Cliff offered no response, simply turning on his heel and walking away.


    After observing Cliff for a while, Juliet opted for a more tactical approach—going through his parents rather than confronting him directly. She masterfully leveraged the goodwill she’d earned by saving Madison’s life, using it to cultivate favor with Madison.


    With Madison’s influence, Cliff found himself unable to avoid encounters with Juliet. Despite their professional coborations, an invisible wall remained between them, keeping their rtionship strictly formal.


    Madison noticed Cliff’s emotional distance and, attributing it to shyness, suggested he take Juliet out privately.


    But Juliet simply offered a knowing smile. “No need, Mrs. Hopkins. His heart lies elsewhere. I won’t try to force what isn’t meant to be.”


    Madison’s face flickered with genuine surprise. “That can’t be right. You two appear perfectly matched.”


    Confusion crossed Juliet’s features as well. “Mrs. Hopkins, surely you’re aware…” She nced meaningfully at Cliff, uncertainty creeping into her voice. “Or have I misread the situation entirely?”


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