Troubled hearts

As the conversation continued, Ella's enthusiasm seemed uncontainable. She leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with excitement, and said, "If we talk and decide to hold a wedding next year, and get the marriage certificates this month, we will have plenty of time to arrange everything for the wedding."

Derrick and Elena exchanged stunned glances, their mouths slightly agape as they struggled to process Ella's words. The shock from the initial proposal was still settling in, and now Ella was suggesting they not only plan a wedding but also get the marriage certificates right away.

Derrick's mind raced. The prospect of rushing into such a significant commitment was daunting, and he couldn't help but feel overwhelmed. He cleared his throat and tried to respond with a calm demeanor, despite his inner turmoil. "Well, that's quite a proposition. It's a lot to take in all at once. We need to consider everything carefully."