Chapter 29 Lancey walked over with a warm smile , taking Anastasia's hands in hers . " Sweetheart , these gifts mean nothing compared to how much joy you've brought Cassian . As long as you two are happy together , material things are just that - things . " The living room atmosphere relaxed considerably , and Anastasia finally felt her shoulders drop from their tense position . Sitting beside Cassian , she listened to Lancey and Grandfather Rhodes chat about family stories , occasionally answering their gentle questions with growing confidence . Lancey was increasingly delighted - this girl was not only beautiful and poised , but genuinely kind and well - mannered . Everything a mother could want for her son . Ian , though quieter , gradually shifted from evaluating to approving as he watched Anastasia's natural grace . Grandfather Rhodes beamed at her . " My dear , you're family now . If you ever need anything at all , don't hesitate to ask . " Warmth spread through Anastasia's chest . " Thank you so much . That means everything to me . " Cassian squeezed her hand gently , his voice low and reassuring . " See ? I told you they'd adore you . " She squeezed back , finally allowing herself to smile genuinely . " They're wonderful . " Just then , Lancey clapped her hands together excitedly . " Alright everyone , dinner's ready ! I've prepared a feast to celebrate our newest family member ! " The family moved toward the elegant dining room , chattering happily . During dinner , Lancey brought up wedding plans , but Anastasia honestly felt their current arrangement was perfect . " Don't you worry about a thing , darling , " Lancey insisted . " I'll handle every detail . You just focus on being a radiant bride . The Rhodes family doesn't do anything halfway - we're going to give you the 16:51 Dumped Today , Married Tomorrow : My Overnight Wedding to a Tycoon 20.09 Chapter wedding of your dreams ! " Looking around the table at these people who'd welcomed her so completely , Anastasia felt tears threatening . She'd never experienced this kind of unconditional acceptance . Compared to the Hale family's cold indifference , the Rhodes family offered something she'd only dreamed of - genuine love and belonging . " Thank you all so much , " she managed , her voice thick with emotion . " I promise I'll treasure this family . " Lancey reached over to pat her hand . " You already are treasuring us , sweetheart . That's what makes you perfect for our Cassian . " Later , driving home from the estate , Anastasia still felt like she was floating . She was determined to be worthy of their love and generosity . Meanwhile , three days had passed since Jasper signed the buyout agreement , but he still hadn't transferred the funds . Anastasia had given him a clear deadline . At that moment , Jasper was drowning his sorrows with his old friend Peter Parker at their usual downtown bar . ' I still don't get what happened , " Peter said , watching Jasper down another whiskey . " You and Ana seemed solid for years . How did it fall apart this fast ? " Ana got too comfortable , " Jasper slurred bitterly . " I spoiled her , and now she thinks she can just walk away with my money . She's delusional if she thinks I'm scared of her threats . " He laughed harshly . " She'll come crawling back once reality hits . She has no idea how good she had t with me . " 16:51 C Dumped Today . Married Tomorrow : My Overnight Wedding to a Tycoon 20.29 Chapter 29 Peter sighed heavily - his friend was completely delusional . " Dude , compared to Valeria , Ana's a fucking catch . She's smart , gorgeous , independent , successful . Everyone knows how talented she is . Valeria's good for a quick hookup , but if you're serious about her , you're asking for drama . " ♡ ( 5 ) 16.51
