Chapter 24.

A few days later, Cameron and his fiancée decided to meet James's brother together. Upon seeing them, Maxime smiled and showed them in, already guessing the reason for their visit. Cameron's face was far too serious for it to be a courtesy visit.

"I imagine you're here for Layla."

"Yes, she told us about your doubts about your relationship. Which I completely understand, don't worry. But I think she needs more than that to feel reassured about your relationship. She wants something serious."

"But you can understand me. I don't know if I'm right for her, and I don't want to give her false hope."

"Why would you say such a thing? How long have you been together?"

"For three months now. All I'm asking is a break."

"And in the meantime, she could very well find someone else to love."

- Cameron...

- No, Violet... he's right, and I can't deny that I could be replaced.

- So what are you waiting for to make your decision? She told us about it a week ago, yet we only came today. Don't you think it was on purpose? You could have thought about it during that time.

- Cameron, can you be less harsh? He probably had things to do. Listen, I don't blame you, but all I'm asking is that you think it through carefully and not keep her waiting too long. I know her well enough to know that she could quickly be hurt by your lack of response. Which I don't want. She's my best friend, and I want her to be happy, and for that, I'm going to help her, just like she did with me. So as soon as you've decided, have a serious discussion with the two of you and decide on your future. You're no longer teenagers, but rather responsible adults. And I know you'll make the right decision.

- Thank you.

- Now we have to go. We have an appointment with our gynecologist, and work too. Take your time, but remember, be sure and be quick.

- Understood.

Back at their place, Cameron helped her get ready for her appointment.

- I think you scared her a little.

- I had to. It was for my sister's sake.

- But I don't think your sister would agree with you knowing how you behaved with her boyfriend. It's not that I'm defending her, but rather that of my friend.

- You're definitely both the same.

- That's why we're best friends, have you forgotten?

- Of course not.

- I'd rather we didn't tell her we had a discussion with him. He'll do it himself if he wants, and he'll talk to her. I'm sure it is.

- I'm surprised you trust him so much when you barely know him.

- Because you don't? He's your best friend's brother, right?

- Indeed, but James doesn't talk much about his family, and I don't ask him much either, so I don't really know what he's capable of.

- You talk about him like he's a criminal. Cameron…

She placed a hand on his shoulder and looked him in the eyes.

- Learn to trust the people you know, especially those close to you.

- It's when I decide to trust that I end up betrayed.

- Have I ever betrayed you? Has your sister ever done it, or even James?

- No, but you have.

- Really? And when was that?

- When you decided to go out with someone else before I was even here. - But in the end, I put myself in danger, so it doesn't count, and besides, it made you come back, so...

- Violet... you're always making excuses, huh?

- I'm pregnant with our child, and we're getting married soon, so this really isn't the time to get angry or even argue.

They suddenly heard several voices downstairs and both went downstairs with their things. Violet was surprised to see her mother and in-laws gathered together, accompanied by her best friend, who seemed to be chatting with them before turning to face them.

- Ah, there you are! I brought them here to kill two birds with one stone. I have two pieces of good news to share with our extended family. First, I'm officially in a relationship with Maxime, and we're moving in together to deepen our relationship. Second, I've officially finished planning your wedding. Everything is ready, as is the guest list. - You see," Violet added to her fiancé, "I told you he'd be mature enough to make a good decision for both of them. However, I didn't quite understand the second piece of news. What do you mean you've got everything ready for our wedding?!"

- Well, yes. You're engaged and you're pregnant with my nephew. Besides, you've finished sorting out all your problems, so... maybe it's time to think about yourselves, right?"

"Your sister isn't wrong, my boy," Violet's mother replied.

"Good evening, mother-in-law, I'm sorry I can't share my presence only now.

"Don't worry, I don't blame you, and I completely understand."

"However, Layla, show me your famous guest list. I hope it's only people we all know."

"Sure, look."

Cameron glanced quickly at his list before looking up.

"I don't know half of your famous guests, I'm warning you, if you make my wife uncomfortable..."

"Of course you don't know them all since you're too busy with your own business to get to know the rest of your family, like your aunts, uncles, and cousins."

"Oh, I see. Well, don't worry, Cameron, I won't be uncomfortable. As long as you're here, it's fine." - Very well, he sighed for a moment before taking her hand, it's time to go see our gynecologist for our baby.