The entire Harrington family gathered around the opulent dining table within the ancestral mansion owned by Maxwell's parents. Positioned at the head of the table sat Mr. Harrington, patriarch of the family, flanked by Alexander's mother on his right and Alexander himself on his left. Accompanying them were Maxwell's two younger siblings, each accompanied by their significant others.

"So, when do you plan on finding yourself a wife, my dear son?" Maxwell's mother inquired, her tone carrying the weight of tradition and the expectation of securing the family's legacy.

MAxwell met his mother's gaze, attempting to exude confidence while concealing his true feelings from his parents. "Not just yet, Mother," he replied, his words carefully chosen to deflect the probing question.

His mother scrutinized him with narrowed eyes, sensing there was more to his response than met the eye.