"Aunt Anneliese, why won't Sophia Hart marry Benjamin Taylor?" Elise Morgan frowned.
Anneliese King spoke with determination, "Elise, I will not let Sophia Hart become my daughter-in-law."
Elise's eyes moistened slightly.
She knew what Anneliese's words meant; it was a glimmer of hope for her.
But she knew he would never love her.
She took a deep breath and said softly, "Aunt Anneliese, I appreciate your kindness towards me, but matters of the heart can't be forced. I hope Benjamin finds the person he truly loves, even if it's not me. You shouldn't stop them."
Anneliese shook her head gently, her face showing conviction, "Elise, you are a good girl. Sophia is not suitable for our family. She's like a greenhouse flower that requires pampering."
Anneliese took Elise's hand, "I know you don't want to force Benjamin, but as his mother, there are things I must do."