Chapter 32

"Okay," Nicole responded, then stepped forward to follow Aaron out. Monica stood frozen, her eyes locked on them until they disappeared completely from view. Only then did she turn to Heidi, her jaw tight with frustration. "Mom, and you still insist you're not playing favorites? You've known I've liked Aaron for years. But the moment Nicole returns, you just hand this perfect engagement over to her?" Heidi snapped out of her thoughts, her expression cold as she looked at Monica. The usual affection in her eyes had vanished, and even her tone carried a hint of warning. "Monica, what happened to the manners and etiquette I've taught you all these years? Do you think that it was acceptable to act like that in front of Mr. Compton? "The Compton family is prestigious, and Mrs. Compton's family has been scholars for three generations. They value refinement and grace above all else. "Aaron chose Nicole. You think I can just turn him down? Since when did you become so thoughtless?"