Marian And Nicole Fuming In Anger

Harris knew that he needed to address the situation delicately. He was aware that his actions, especially ending the engagement with Nicole, could potentially have significant consequences. Nicole's feelings and her family's expectations were factors that weighed heavily on his mind. As for Marian, she had been a staunch supporter of Harris's engagement to Nicole, viewing it as a strategic alliance between influential families. The news of Harris revealing his commitment to Mallory and Harriet might not sit well with her. Harris had to brace himself for what would likely be a difficult conversation with his mother. "Mallory, I need to talk to you," Harris said as they were alone at home after the press conference. "Sure. Is this about Harriet?" "No. This is about us," Harris began. "You know I mean everything I said in the press conference. You and Harriet are my world. There is no other woman I love this way, except you," he said mouthfully. "Now, I know that our situation is a little hard. I'm asking you to evaluate how you feel about me. At the right time, when this is all over. We can talk this over again," he said with all sincerity. Mallory didn't doubt a word from Harris but he was right, she was not comfortable making a decision with the chaos going on. Her priority is Harriet. "Yes, I'll consider it," she said finally. "Really? There's no taking back of your words?" He confirmed. "Harris, I'm not saying it again," Mallory said, turning around, heading upstairs. Leaving Harris on cloud nine. The press, of course, was not making things easier. Their recent interview with Harris and Nicole, where they had affirmed their engagement, had confused people. The sudden change in narrative was bound to raise questions, skepticism, and even speculation about the true nature of Harris's relationships. In the days following the press conference, Harris and Mallory were prepared for the storm of public opinion and the potential backlash from those who had believed in the previous narrative. Their journey towards acceptance and understanding was far from over, and they understood that they would need to face these challenges head-on. Their love and commitment to one another and to Harriet remained steadfast, serving as a source of strength as they navigated this complex and uncertain chapter in their lives. The situation escalated as the confusion regarding Harris's relationship status continued to swirl. The press, relentless in their pursuit of sensational stories, hounded both Harris and Nicole for any tidbit of information that could clarify the situation. Being scions of famous and wealthy families only intensified the media's interest. Reporters spied outside their homes, swarmed their workplaces, and relentlessly questioned their friends and associates. The paparazzi seemed to have an insatiable appetite for every detail of their personal lives. Amid this chaos, Marian paid an unexpected visit to Harris's mansion. Her anger was palpable as she confronted him about the press conference and the potentially catastrophic consequences of his actions, particularly about their family's group of companies. The decision of Nicole's parents to withdraw from a business merger was a dire blow. "Look what you've done?" Marian said, fuming in anger. "I did what is best for my family because no one will ever do that to us, to Mallory and Harriet, your granddaughter." "Don't use Harriet against me. I know she is my granddaughter, but you should have thought of what is best for her future, not just today. Do you really think your choice was the best for all of us?" Marian said, pointing fingers at Harris. She looks like a bomb that is about to explode. Harris, however, was unwavering. He had reached a point in his life where he refused to be manipulated any longer. "I'm at the point in my life that I no longer want anyone dictating me. What I did was the best for my family. Regarding the business, I'll take care of it. I promised Dad that I'll take care of his legacy and I will fulfill that." He couldn't allow his personal happiness, and the happiness of the family he was building with Mallory and Harriet, to be sacrificed for the sake of corporate alliances and social expectations. Marian scoffed, not believing Harris could do anything to salvage their empire in possible bankruptcy when the Hudson ended all ties with them. "Your stubbornness will bring us demise. Don't you dare talk about your father when you can't even fulfill your words to him? Harris, you wasted such a big opportunity." "That's one of the reasons why I'm no longer following you," Harris said sternly. "There was never a time you believed in me, in my abilities to run Dad's legacy. You always thought that our companies would only survive under your guidance. You never let me do it on my own terms. But those times were gone. I'll show you how I will save Dad's legacy." "Our legacy," Marian corrected. "I helped your Dad build our empire but it seems it won't be around for long," she said, ignoring Harris's complaints and showing no remorse. Harris was expecting it though. His mom doesn't fully trust him and besides she is one of the emotionless people he knows. "Mom, enough with your selfishness. I am not the same Harris 10 years ago. I have my own family now. Whether you like it or not, I will stand for my daughter and Mallory." Marian greeted her teeth, she was losing her patience. "Where is Mallory and my granddaughter?" She asked in her frustration and anger and sought out Mallory and Harriet. Likely in an attempt to exert pressure on Harris through his newfound family. However, at that precise moment, Mallory and Harriet were at school, blissfully unaware of the turmoil that had erupted around them. Harris, determined to protect the peaceful life he was building with Mallory and Harriet, asked his mother to leave his home. He made it clear that he was no longer willing to bow to the demands and expectations of their family's business empire. Marian departed, but not before leaving a chilling threat in her wake. She warned Harris that he had made a grievous error in choosing Mallory over the path that had been laid out for him. Her parting words hung heavily in the air, a foreboding reminder of the challenges that lay ahead for Harris and his newfound family. Amid this turmoil, Harris found solace in Mallory's unwavering support and love. Their bond grew stronger as they faced adversity together. They were determined to weather the storm of public scrutiny and family expectations, for the sake of the family they had built and the love that held them together. At his office, Harris was immersed in his tasks. His eyes were glued on his laptop looking at the monthly financial statement when there was a knock on his door. "Come in," he said. The door was open abruptly, showing Ruby and Nicole. Harris was shocked to see the latter. "Mr. Thompson, I couldn't stop Ms. Hudson from entering," Ruby said as she escorted Nicole into Harris's office. Nicole's unannounced visit sent ripples of tension through the room. "I got this, Ruby. You may leave now. Thank you," Harris said, setting aside his laptop. Nicole's entrance was accompanied by an air of devastation, and her eyes, once filled with admiration and trust, were now clouded with hurt and anger. She had been blindsided by Harris's actions despite all the support their families had provided to the Thompson Group. "I was supposed to talk to you in private, not here." "Obviously, there's no need for that, I am here now," Nicole replied coldly. Harris, guilt gnawing at his conscience, realized that his decision had consequences beyond his personal life. He appeared selfish for prioritizing Mallory and Harriet over the interests of both families and their businesses. He sighed heavily, acknowledging the pain he had caused.