?Chapter 1544:


    The mask slipped from Ethan’s face, his patience finally spent. He sat up straight and looked her dead in the eyes. “If you’re bored, why not find a job that keeps you busy? Go teach at Shirie University. But stay out of my business.”


    Elsa, red with anger, banged her fist against the back of the seat. “You’re all shutting me out! Stop the car! I’m not riding with you another second!”


    But Neville kept his eyes on the road, answering only to Ethan. Elsa’s outburst got her nowhere. Her anger only mounted as the car rolled into her own neighborhood, stopping outside her house.


    She had no choice but to get out of the car. She stormed inside, greeted by a spotless home and a housekeeper who weed her with slippers and a fresh ss of water.


    Ethan stepped inside, turned to her, and spoke inly. “Brenna and I have decided on a destination wedding. We’re not doing the big ceremony.”


    Elsa’s anger spiked. “How could you do that? Do you even understand the weight of your status? How can you not have a proper ceremony for your wedding? The Harper family holds great standing, and with your father, Brenna’s parents, and myself all carrying influence in Shirie, your wedding ought to surpass every other celebration. How could you think of reducing it to nothing more than a trip? I will never ept that.”


    Unmoved, Ethan crossed his legs and took a seat with Brenna, his calm presence making it clear he wouldn’t be swayed.


    “I’m not here to ask for your approval. This is just a heads-up—our wedding, our rules. We’re not looking for anyone else’s input. And for the record, Brenna’s parents have already agreed to that.”


    Elsa was beside herself, frustration bubbling over with every word.


    “You’re my son. Of course I get a say in your life!” she snapped, her eyes darting to Brenna. “Was this your idea?”


    Brenna met her re with steady resolve. “Yes. I suggested it, and Ethan agreed.”


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    Elsa’s tone hardened. “No. If you’re both set on doing a destination wedding, then forget about getting married at all. Wait until you’re willing to have a proper celebration. I will not agree to it!”


    Ethan’s stare went cold. “We’ve said all there is to say. If you’re finished, we’re heading out.”


    He took Brenna’s hand and led her toward the door, not once pausing for Elsa’s protests.


    Elsa threw herself in their way. “Don’t walk away from me! Did you even hear what I just said?”


    “You really don’t need to worry about our affairs anymore.” Ethan looked her in the eyes, calm and immovable.


    Elsa stayed put, shaking her head in disbelief as she watched her son leave, arm in arm with the woman she couldn’t stand.


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