“No need for self-introduction,” Louise cut him off, raising a hand with an air of finality.

Her lips curved into a strained, courteous smile. “There is no need for formalities either. I know who you are and that you’re seeing my daughter, but—” Her voice hardened, resolute. “I do not approve of your relationship.”

“Mrs. Hayes—”

“Mr. Jenkins,” Louise interrupted again, her tone unyielding. “I believe you’re a fine young man, but let me be clear. The Hayes family cannot accept your family. If you could somehow change who your parents are, perhaps things might be different. But can you?”

Of course not. Brady’s face drained of color, his words caught in his throat.

Louise let out a cold, mirthless chuckle, taking Colleen’s hand. Her eyes remained fixed on Brady. “You should go. We would rather not make a scene and hope to spare you some dignity in Colleen’s eyes. You and Colleen… it is best you part ways, as if you had never crossed paths.”

With that, she gently but firmly tugged Colleen toward the house. “Come along, dear.”

“Mom…” Colleen’s voice trembled as she was tugged away, her gaze lingering on Brady with a mix of yearning and reluctance.

“Colleen!” Louise’s tone was sharp, her frustration boiling over. “If you so much as glance at him again, you’re in for it! Nelson is still by the door!”

Her words carried a heavy warning—Nelson might lash out at Brady again if provoked.

Caught between her heart and her mother’s command, Colleen faltered but gave in. “I’ll come inside with you.”

“Move it, then!” Louise snapped.

“Colleen…” Brady took two instinctive steps forward, his voice soft but desperate.

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“What do you think you’re doing?” Nelson stormed toward him, eyes blazing with anger. “Didn’t you hear my mother? Don’t push your luck!”

“Nelson!” Zane rushed to intervene, grabbing Nelson’s arm to hold him back.

At the same moment, Eric pulled Brady behind him, shielding him.

“Zane, why are you defending this guy?” Nelson growled, struggling against Zane’s grip.

Brady retorted to Eric, “Let go! I don’t need you stepping in! If Nelson wants to throw punches, let him!”

“Don’t be a fool!” Eric and Zane spoke in unison, each grappling with one of the young men.

Eric dragged Brady toward his car, while Zane hauled Nelson back toward the house.

The rain poured relentlessly, soaking everyone and leaving them looking like drowned rats, their clothes clinging to their skin.

“Get in!” Eric pushed Brady into the car, tossing him a towel. “Look at you—you’re a wreck!”

He climbed in after him, slamming the door with a thud.

“Drive. Jewel Avenue.”

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