Marion was not happy to hear that.


    "Thanks for your offer," Debra said, holding Marion''s hand. "I already have a husband, so why would I want to be part of your family? For your reputation, I remarried Juan. But make no mistake. That was thest time."


    Melody pointed at her, unable to form a response.


    Debra concluded, "I''ll give you one day to consider my offer. Think it over. This may be yourst chance."


    With that, she led Marion to leave.


    Melody shouted after her, "How are you going to exin this to Juan?"


    Debra stopped in her tracks. "I''ve always been fair to him, and I owe you nothing."


    Melody fainted out of anger.


    Joe rushed over. "Quick, call the doctor."


    The maids scrambled around the room, while Debra and Marion took their leave.


    Once, this manor seemed out of reach to Debra. She always wanted to earn Juan and his family''s recognition. Now those things no longer bound her.


    She had gotten Marion by her side. Holding his hand, she said, "I never want toe back to this ce."


    "Your demands were indeed high," Marion said, flicking her nose. "That was almost all her savings."


    "Those jewels might not sell well, but I''ll take them as heirlooms," Debra exined. "Besides, I want to see if she has anything simr to that ring. We might find a connection."


    "You surely know how to bargain."


    "You think i''m good at bargaining now, but in a few years, you might think I''m petty. They say men change after marriage. Wildflowers are always sweeter than flowers at home."


    "The most beautiful flower in the world is right in front of me. Why would look elsewhere? Besides, all my assets are in your hands. If I ever change my heart, you''d kick me out and let me sleep in the street."


    "You know me so well. And Caleb will side with me. Bing a beggar wouldn''t be so bad."


    Marion pulled her close. "You''re naughty, and I like it."


    Juan watched their interaction from a distance. He hid behind a wall and smiled bitterly.


    Marion was right. The most beautiful flower had been right in front of him, but he had ignored it and let it wither away.


    If he could turn back time, he would not let anyone else have her.