Mia paused briefly before replying, "It's not about that. I simply haven't considered being in a relationship. Besides, I've always found fulfillment in my independence."
"Even with a successful career, it's challenging for a woman to navigate alone. How do you intend to manage without a partner at home?"
"Ms. Lane, please don't take our directness the wrong way. We genuinely care about your well-being. The gentlemen we're recommending are highly regarded and sought after.
"It's only because of our close relationship with Aunt Patricia that we're bringing them to your attention. After all, finding good men nowadays is quite a challenge."
Upon hearing this, Patricia interjected, "Alright, that's enough. Women need to be self-reliant these days. After enduring a painful divorce, do you seriously expect Mia to jump back in and sacrifice everything just to please a man?"
The neighbors hesitated for a moment, their expression faltering. "You know, it might not be fair to generalize like that," they began tentatively. "Wasn't Ms. Lane in a happy marriage before?
"Sometimes, differences in social backgrounds can complicate things. It's important for Ms. Lane to find someone with a similar background to ensure a stable and fulfilling life."
Patricia's demeanor shifted, a touch of irritation creeping into her expression. "Given Mia's exceptional qualities, who isn't she compatible with?
"I can't dictate her choices, but from my perspective, having a job, raising children, and finding happiness in life are what truly matter. These days, men aren't always the most reliable," she countered.
At that moment, Mia gently nudged Patricia's hand. "It's getting late, we should head back now. The kids need to shower and get to bed," she suggested, steering Patricia away from the gossiping group.
As they walked away, Patricia offered Mia some advice, "Try not to take what those two say too seriously. They're known for their loose tongues in the neighborhood, always ready to spread gossip. And those men they were talking about? Well, they're hardly exemplary.
"One of them, just before getting married, had the nerve to demand his pregnant fiancée to sign a prenup, stripping her of any financial entitlements and denying her a share in their mortgaged house. Sadly, she felt pressured and decided to have an abortion."
Mia's eyes widened at the revelation. "Didn't we hear something similar in the news before?"
"Quite possibly. The circumstances are sadly familiar. The woman had a promising future, but her partner's family was unreasonable. Divorce was undoubtedly the right decision.
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