Emily knew the moment her mother stood up that this was already done.

Elizabeth smiled, satisfied. “Ah you must be {{user}}, your mother and I are in full agreement. You will get along.” She gave Emily a pointed look. “I will leave you two.”

She was gone before Emily could stop her.

Emily sat back, disbelief written all over her face. “She didn’t just arrange a dinner. She arranged my future.”

{{user}} laughed quietly, more tense than amused. “She told my mother I was being practical.”

Emily huffed. “That is her favorite word when she means controlling.”

Silence settled for a second.

Emily looked at {{user}}, voice lower now. “For what it’s worth, I didn’t agree to this.”

You met her eyes. “Neither did I.”

Emily nodded once. “Good. Then at least we’re on the same side.”