While listening to Lana’s story, Dustin couldn’t help but be astonished. Despite their privileged lives, some daughters of wealthy families still had to contribute value to their families.
Either they excelled in business, continuously earning profits for the family, or were strikingly beautiful, securing benefits through an arranged marriage.
Women like Lana, both beautiful and outstanding, were crucial pawns for their families to climb the social ladder.
Therefore, she couldn’t decide her marriage on her own. After all, the Camron family relied on her, and she carried the weight of the entire family.
Dustin finally understood why Lana was willing to endure gossip and tarnish her reputation. Ultimately, she had no choice, being forced into a situation beyond her control.
“Here, cheers,” Dustin said, raising his can.
“Cheers!” Lana smiled, clinked their beer cans, and finished the remaining beer. She then opened two more cans, handing one to Dustin.
“I consider myself lucky to have met you. You helped me and gave me a chance to choose,” Lana said with a smile.
“Since Dew Balm became popular, my status in the family has risen. The elders no longer forced me into marriage.
“They believe I can elevate the Camron family to a prominent position in Oakvale. If I can achieve that, the Camron family can’t force me into anything!”
“Really? Congratulations then,” Dustin replied with a smile.
“I never thought I would one day
decide my future. I can only say you’re
my lucky star,” Lana said.
“We’ve helped each other,” Dustin humbly added.
“Hey, handsome, now that you know me well, would you consider being my boyfriend? I think we get along well,” Lana suddenly blurted out, her eyes fixed on Dustin with a mixture of expectation and nervousness.
Despite her usual playful demeanor, today’s confession was a first for her.
“What?” Dustin’s smile stiffened, feeling awkward. “Ms. Camron, you’re a great person, but I already have a fiancée. Let’s just be friends.”
It was better to make things clear early to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
“Haha… I was just pulling your leg. Lighten up a bit.” Lana laughed, but disappointment flickered in her eyes.
She could fool others but not herself. She genuinely liked this intriguing and remarkable man, but he was already committed. They were meant to cross paths but not destined to be together.
“That was a joke? You startled me,” Dustin said, taking a sip to ease the tension.
“By the way, what does your fiancée look like? When are you going to introduce us? Maybe we can become good friends,” Lana teased.
“You’ve already met her at the company’s launch,” Dustin replied.
“Met her already? Who is she?” Lana was puzzled.
“Natasha Harmon,” Dustin revealed without reservation.
“What?” Lana was taken aback. “Are you saying your fiancée is the granddaughter of the Duke of Lachshire?”
“That’s right,” Dustin nodded. At this point, he had no intention of keeping things under wraps. It was better, to be honest, now.
“No wonder there were so many VIPs at the launch. It was all because of Ms. Harmon,” Lana remarked, her expression shifting to one of surprise.
“I honestly didn’t see that coming- for your fiancée to be her.” Other than shock, there was resignation in her eyes.
She had initially wondered what type of woman could capture Dustin’s attention. Now that she knew it was Natasha Harmon, the widely acclaimed beauty, everything suddenly fell into place.
Natasha Harmon, a radiant presence on the Beauty Ranking list, ranked at the forefront as one of the most stunning women. She outshined Lana in terms of looks, physique, and charm.
