The Unwilling CEO's Love Game novel Chapter 154

She lingered at the foot of the apartment building and sat on a bench rather than immediately ascending the stairs.

Pulling out her cell, she scrolled through Twitter and a tweet from the village assistant, Uriah caught her eye. It was good news: their village was getting a road upgrade. The construction team had already scoped out the area and charted out the new route with the goal of having driveways accessible within six months.

The town's development plan also had an intriguing proposal — planting apple trees.

Every fall, they’d harvest the apples and arrange for buyers to come directly to purchase the fruits, so that the locals wouldn’t have to sell by themselves.

More importantly, a company proposed to build a processing plant nearby. It promised to provide jobs for many in the area.

Though it was just a plan, it represented a beacon of hope for everyone.

At that moment, Jocelyn felt a surge of respect for Melvin, the man making it happen.

Regardless of his reasons or motivations, his actions spoke volumes, and she couldn't help but give a thumbs-up to his post before heading upstairs.

...

The day before the school year kicked off, Harrison invited Jocelyn to dinner.

He had been back in Yanova City for a while but had been too swamped to meet up until now.

After picking her up, he suggested, “How about we invite your parents along?”

Checking the time, Jocelyn replied, “They’ve probably had dinner by now.”

“Just ask.”

“Alright.”

She called her mom, Daisy, who confirmed they'd already eaten and, knowing Harrison was the one who’d invited Jocelyn out, reminded her daughter to enjoy his company.

Her parents genuinely liked Harrison, so much that they wished he'd marry her right away.

“They're really setting us up for some alone time, huh?” Harrison joked, unsurprised.

Jocelyn sighed with a mix of frustration and amusement. “They really like you.”

“If I didn't have to consider your feelings, I'd definitely be part of your family by now.” Harrison quipped.

Jocelyn chuckled, “What, planning on being the son-in-law who moves in?”

“I don't mind.” Harrison said carelessly. “My parents are anxious too. They'd probably pay someone to take me off their hands.”

“The universal plight of parents.” Jocelyn mused. “Seems like there are plenty of folks not rushing to marry. It's as if staying single is some kind of crime.”

“Well, you know how it is. Life's all about settling down and carrying on the family name.” Harrison understood, “But honestly, I do like the idea of having a family. A wife, a kid, a cozy little trio — it all sounds pretty blissful.”

Jocelyn sensed his genuine longing for marriage and imagined he'd be a terrific husband and father. His future wife would be happy with him.

“Just hearing you talk about it sounds lovely.” she admitted.

“Too bad nobody's creating that happiness with me.” Harrison lamented with a hint of sadness.

Jocelyn knew what he meant but simply responded, “Don't worry, you'll find the right person.”

Harrison offered a wistful smile, “Hopefully.”

They arrived at an upscale bistro and were shown to their reserved table. It was a rare occasion — their first dinner out this year.