Chapter 1706

Emma nodded. "I just met him through Ron." Susie said, "He's quite something, you know. Alwyn looks up to him the most. There's a bunch of rumors about him, none too good. Outsiders tend to steer clear." She snuck a glance at Xander. "But after I've been around him with Alwyn a few times, I think he doesn't seem as bad as the rumors say. Sure, he's a bit quiet, not much for jokes, but that's about it." Not well acquainted with the group, Emma kept it brief. "We've all heard stories, but what he's really like, that's his own business." Susie got the hint. "So, what's the deal with you and Ron? Are you into him?" Emma cracked a smile. "Family arrangements, where's the room for like or dislike?" Hearing this, Susie's smile faded, revealing a more solemn expression. "Ah, every family has got its own set of challenges. People envy us for our backgrounds, but they don't see the troubles we face. In this day and age, to think we still don't have a say in our own marriages." Emma asked,