Page 54 of When Love And Destiny Collide

"Marian will be here on Tuesday," Jon says. "I suggest—"

"Tuesday?" I cut him off, surprised. "No. She’ll be here tomorrow."

Jon pauses. "The couple staying in the rental won’t be leaving until Monday. Marian can’t move in until the first."

"So where is she planning to stay?" I mutter, more to myself than to him. A sinking feeling hits me. "Does she think she’s staying with me?”

"Noah, this is exactly what I’m talking about," Jon says, his voice edged with frustration. "Marian is expecting to pick things up where you left off. What about Lily? Where does this 'living arrangement' leave her?"

"I'll take care of it," I say firmly. "And don’t worry about Lily. She’s my fiancée, and it’s my responsibility to ensure she doesn’t have any concerns about my ex."

After we end the call, I walk to the window facing the backyard and glance at the guesthouse, where my sweetheart is likely fast asleep. She has no idea that starting tomorrow, things will get a lot more complicated. Yet, as the naysayers continue to line up—Mateo, Jon, Marian, and possibly even Aaron—each voice of doubt only reinforces my resolve. With every objection, mydetermination to make Lily my wife grows stronger, carving itself deeper into my heart.

Chapter 14

Lily

I lie in bed, transfixed by the ring adorning my finger. It’s nothing short of breathtaking. As I lift my hand and touch the diamond, set in its delicate filigree band, I’m struck by its timeless elegance—whispers of love stories woven through generations. This ring is a link to Sharon, Noah’s mother, his grandmother, and even his great-grandmother. It carries with it so much history and love. I can hardly believe it’s now mine. "I love you, Noah," I whisper into the quiet night. "And I can’t believeyou’remine."

***

After I get ready for the day, I gaze at my reflection in the mirror, unable to suppress my beaming smile. I’m engaged! I run my fingers through my hair, sweeping my curtain bangs into place before spritzing them with hairspray. I silently pray they’ll hold throughout the day, savoring the joy of this new chapter.I shut the door behind me and stroll across the lawn towards the house, subconsciously twisting the ring on my finger and breathing in the fresh, flower-filled scent that drifts through the morning air. I see Noah sitting on the back porch, a cup of coffee in hand, his expression a blend of contemplation and unreadable emotion. When he sees me, his face breaks into a smile, and his eyes light up with unmistakable love. He loves me, and he no longer hides it.

"Good morning," I say with a smile as I go up the steps.

"Good morning, Sweetheart," he replies, setting his coffee cup down on the table before standing. My heart soars as he approaches me. His height, his strong arms, his broad chest—all solid like a comforting anchor—make me feel cherished and secure. "How was your first night as an engaged woman?"

"I slept like a baby," I say with a smile. "When I woke up this morning, I thought it had all been a sweet dream—until I felt the ring on my finger." I glance at it, gently twisting it around, before looking up at him. He reaches for my hands, cocooning them in his own, his grip firm yet tender, as if shielding them with all the strength and care he has. His touch feels like a silent vow, a promise that no matter what, he’ll always be there to protect us.

"I spoke to Jon last night," he starts, his tone serious. "He’s not exactly thrilled about us."

My stomach tightens at his words. "You told him we're engaged?"

"He already sensed something was going on," he explains. "He’s perceptive like that."

"Did Loren—"

"No, Sweetheart," he interrupts gently. "Loren didn’t say a word, but her excitement was so palpable, it was impossible to miss. Jon, and likely Aaron, put two and two together."

"Aaron has always been very supportive," I say, confusion lining my voice.

"To be honest, I’m not sure what Aaron thinks of us," he admits. "Jon's main concern is that he doesn’t want you to get hurt."

"Get hurt?" I echo, shaking my head. "How?"

"Well," he starts carefully, "it mostly revolves around the idea of you having to deal with Marian."

I nod, a sinking feeling in my chest as I begin to grasp where this is going.

"And speaking of Marian," Noah murmurs, his voice cautious.

"What is it?" I ask, bracing myself for whatever is coming next.

"She called last night to let me know her flight arrives today. According to Jon, she wasn't supposed to be here until Tuesday, so the rental Jon secured for her won’t be ready until Monday."

I nod, my mind racing as the pieces fall into place.

"She’ll want to stay here with you," I say, my eyes locking with his.

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