Chapter 8

"Enough—"

Joe's face turned livid as he glanced at the tearful Zoe who had thrown herself into his arms, then at Haley, feeling increasingly irritated.

He softened his tone, pretending to be stern as he said to Haley, "Haley, stop making a scene. Xena is still young and doesn't know any better. Don't be so petty."

"Young?" Haley's gaze swept over Xena, nodding, "Yeah, just a month younger than me, really young indeed."

She deliberately emphasized the last few words, her tone seemingly flat but carrying a hint of sarcasm that didn't escape Joe's ears.

He couldn't maintain his composure, his expression darkening, "She's your sister. How can you treat her like this? Yes, Xena was wrong in this matter, but James likes her. Your insistence won't change anything. Why not talk to the Ford family, explain the situation, and let the engagement go to Xena? That way, everyone wins, and I'll find you a better match in the future."

By the end, Joe's authority was noticeably weakened. He knew