Chapter Sixteen - Jason's Reality

Gingerly, Hayley sat down on the couch while Jason was on the one opposite her. “I hope you know I wish to marry you?”

Hayley looked him in the eyes and nodded. “Yes, but why?”

This was the opportunity she had been looking for to show her disinterest in him. It was a do-or-die situation for her and she would surely speak her mind.

“I need a respectable virgin wife to give me an heir to my business empire. The women I have come across do not conform to my standards. I want someone far above, someone of aristocratic lineage such as yourself. I know your parents personally and I trust them when they boast about your high principles. But there is something I wish to warn you about.” His ancient principles infuriated her, but she took a deep breath and faced him courageously.

“I’m sorry to disappoint you, Mr. Lowells, but my thoughts on marriage differ from yours. If I ever marry, it will be for love.”

“You have little say in this, Hayley. Your family has accepted me. You’re still very