Bride To Be Not Me (Janice and Simon)

The Swanwick family had never been involved in politics until the patriarch brought their son, Kellan, into the field, which paved the way for their current position.

Over the decades, he had climbed the ranks without slowing down and also secured a solid foothold in Lakeshore City.

Despite that, the Swanwicks and the Moores rarely crossed paths. Their respective fields of work kept them in separate circles, and there was little to no interaction between the two families.

In Lakeshore City, ordinary families wouldn't dare offend either the Moore or Swanwick families. Instead, they silently hoped to marry their daughters into the Moore family or secure a match with one of the Swanwick daughters.

After all, such alliances could significantly boost their social standing and career prospects.

Outside the Moore residence, the driver carefully helped the woman out of the car. "Miss, please watch your step."

She was wearing a pastel pink dress paired with high heels and a loose-knit cardigan draped over her shoulders. Her striking features were accentuated by almond-shaped eyes that held a faint, knowing smile.

This woman was Lysette, the youngest daughter of the Swanwick family.

In Lakeshore City, many sought to ingratiate themselves with her, but she rarely gave anyone the time of day and kept her distance from casual socializing.

Rumor had it she already had someone in her heart, but no one dared to speculate that it might be someone from the Moore family. After all, their status was beyond question, and few would risk discussing them lightly.

"Ms. Swanwick."

As the lady of the house, Barbara was responsible for receiving guests.noveldrama

"Mrs. Moore," Lysette greeted her.

"What a surprise! If I'd known you were coming, I would've had everything prepared in advance."

No matter the circumstances, Barbara wasn't one to make a guest feel unwelcome. She invited Lysette inside, where Robert was seated in the living room. However, Edward was nowhere to be seen.

Lysette wasn't surprised. Before coming there, she had done her homework. She had found out that Edward had a girlfriend in Greenfield City, and the whole town was talking about it. So, she assumed he was there and spending time with his girlfriend.

But Lysette didn't seem bothered by this.

"I didn't bring many gifts for the visit. But I heard Mr. Moore enjoys a particular kind of tea, so I brought some for him. My parents are on their way back from a trip and should be here soon."

Her parents were coming too?

Barbara paused momentarily. "Great. I'll have the staff prepare dinner."

Lysette smiled and sat down.

Once in the kitchen, Barbara quickly called Myra. "Is Terry home?"

Myra caught on immediately. "Do you need us to come over?"

"Come over to the Moore residence."

"Sure. We're actually nearby. We'll be there shortly."

Myra and Terry often shuttled back and forth between two places.

Robert exchanged a few pleasantries with Lysette and asked about her parents before excusing himself and heading upstairs.

Inside the study, Edward was focused on his work.

Robert shut the door and lowered his voice. "The Swanwick couple will be here later. You can join us for dinner, but don't feel pressured to accommodate them on my account."

Edward paused his work, then looked up. "You really think I would?"

He wasn't the type to let the so-called "bigger picture" considerations dictate his life. Even if it came to that, he would find a way to handle it without resorting to such compromises. Besides, he already had a girlfriend.