“Bad name,” Shawn refuted. “I like Serenity, Mom. I’m not asking her for anything, nor do I need her help. Everyone knows she doesn’t get along with her relatives. Those people can’t claim to be our in-laws and tarnish our family’s reputation.”
“Mom, I really, really love Serenity. Can you—”
“No! Don’t ask me for anything! I will never give my blessing as long as it involves Serenity! Besides, Serenity is married. She has a husband. Your pursuit makes you a homewrecker!”
“I’m warning you, Shawn! Don’t blame me for going after Serenity if you keep pestering her.”
Color drained from Shawn’s face. “This has nothing to do with Serenity, Mom.”
“I don’t care. Her mere presence has distracted my son and turned him into a homewrecker. I want her to pay. If you won’t grow up, I’ll make sure she has to leave town!”
Shawn stared in shock at his cruel and heartless mother. Not long ago, she claimed to like Serenity, but now her tune had changed upon learning of Shawn’s feelings.
“From now on, I’ll have security with you 24/7. If I catch you sneaking off to her shop to see Serenity, I’ll have it trashed. I’ll force her, her sister, her nephew, and her husband out of Wiltspoon.”
“You better get over your feelings if you really love her and want the best for her, Shawn. Don’t do anything to come between her marriage, or I’ll be forced to keep my word!”
Shawn went pale and stared blankly at his mother, recalling Jasmine’s warning. Jasmine had said that despite his mother’s fondness for Serenity, she would turn against her once she discovered his feelings.
It was true.
“Mom…” Shawn hesitated before saying, “Please don’t make things difficult for Serenity. I ask you not to do anything that might hurt her. I-I’ll try… I’ll try to let go of my feelings for her.”
It didn’t bother him to be labeled a homewrecker for getting involved in Serenity’s marriage. Shawn believed he and Serenity were destined to be together, having known her since childhood. The only thing keeping them apart was the timing. Still, he couldn’t stand the thought of his mother causing Serenity any harm.