Gossip Girl Reborn (Isabella and Alexander)
Gossip 157

Chapter 157 Turning Down The Proposal

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After Javier had finished speaking, his gaze shifted to Scarlett, filled with a deep and affectionate look that seemed to speak volumes. Javier was well aware of Scarlett's deepest desires and aspirations

Scarlett's early life had been marked by loss and longing, she had lost her father when she was very young and had been raised by her mother in her maternal grandfather's home. In that household, a significant preference was given to male children, and her mother was exceedingly committed to supporting her younger brothers. This left Scarlett in a situation where love was scarce, and she often felt neglected. Living in such conditions where boys were valued more highly, she felt persistent pressure and constraint, dreaming frequently of freedom and escape. Yet, bound by a deep moral obligation to her family, she often felt trapped, her sense of helplessness palpable.

During her time with Javier, Scarlett had once opened up about her innermost wishes. She expressed no desire for a wealthy husband; rather, her dreams were of a simple, warm, and loving home. She longed for a life partner who would offer genuine love and respect, a companion who would stand by her side. Moreover, she harbored dreams of motherhood, envisioning herself providing a nurturing and joyful environment for her future children.

When Scarlett had shared these desires with Javier, it required a tremendous amount of bravery on her part. She hoped to convey to him that she wasn't like the typical actresses he might know; she was ready to embrace marital life at a young stage, primarily motivated by love rather than the glitz of stardom financial gains.

Javier, however, tactfully avoided delving deep into these topics during their discussions. His interest in Scarlett stemmed partly from her naivety regarding romantic matters; he felt secure knowing that even if she stumbled upon his darker secrets, she wouldn't expose him, thus safeguarding his interests. He recognized her willingness to financially support him as well, although he did harbor genuine affection for her. Despite this, he was not yet prepared to fully commit to a relationship.

Unexpectedly, when Scarlett discovered his gambling habits, she decisively ended their relationship.

Initially, Javier dismissively assumed Scarlett was primarily motivated by financial concerns. The realization that she genuinely sought a loving partnership with him seemed implausible to him at first.

It was only when he was cornered by circumstances that he recognized Scarlett's compassionate nature. which might be his last refuge. He then extended an offer to Scarlett, one he believed she couldn't refuse, confident in his manipulation.

Scarlett, holding strong family values, would likely strive to resolve any debts once married, indicating her deep commitment and willingness to labor tirelessly for family stability.

As Javier pondered over these thoughts, he gazed intently at a bewildered Scarlett, preparing to put the ring on her.

However, in a swift and decisive movement, Scarlett withdrew her hand, leaving Javier momentarily unbalanced and visibly shocked.

Her expression, usually gentle, now turned into a frown filled with indignation.

The silence that enveloped the surrounding crowd was palpable.

Isabella pinched herself in an effort to stifle her laughter in the serene hall.

Turning arrsund, she noticed both Christonher and Roglie attempting to do the same while Danielle

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Chapter 157 Turning Down The Proposal.

looked on with a raised eyebrow, evidently intrigued by the unfolding drama.

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The live stream comments exploded into a flurry of confusion and speculation about Scarlett's rejection.

What's going on!

Was Javier rejected?

I thought everything was falling into place earlier

Is Scarlett feeling shy? Or maybe she wants to say something!

Scarlett's voice then cut through the murmurs, clear and resolute, "What on earth are you doing? I thought I made it crystal clear, we've already broken up."

Javier's smile faltered as he responded, his voice strained, "Lettie, are you still mad at me? Did you not understand what I just said?"

"I understand," Scarlett replied sharply, but it has nothing to do with me. We've already broken up."

Stunned by her response, Javier tried to appeal to her desire for a stable home. "You... Didn't you want a home? I'm willing to give you one."

"You're willing to give, but I don't want to accept," Scarlett retorted dismissively.

Come on, she wants a home, not a crumbling building. What's the deal with that?

Christopher and Rosalie continued to stifle their laughter, relieved that Scarlett was not swayed by Javier's superficial gestures.

Javier's supposed understanding of young women's psychology is flawed. He hadn't anticipated that their natural sensitivity and timidity, borne from a lack of affection, could evolve into powerful defense mechanisms. These qualities allow them to maintain a distance from detrimental influences, a skill they wouldn't have mastered if not for their past experiences with individuals like Sienna and Bartholomeo.

Christopher and Rosalie shared a look of understanding and relief; they were glad that Scarlett had not fallen for Javier's disingenuous charm.

Javier, on the other hand, appeared visibly perplexed by Scarlett's steadfast denials, momentarily lost for words.

Recalling their breakup, Javier had implored Scarlett to keep his gambling issues a secret, a plea to which she had agreed. Despite this, the media later spun tales that she had left him for another actor, yet she never exploited his secret to counter these accusations, Frustrated by the turn of events, Javier wondered, Such a naive woman should be easy to coat and deceive! Why did it turn out like this?

At that moment, two familiar figures stepped forward. Sienna, with her sharp, discerning eyes and a stern demeanor, addressed Scarlett reproachfully, "Scarlett, when we forbade you from seeing him, you fought us tooth and nail. Now that he's proposing, you're refusing out of spite? He's such a catch, if you lose him because of your stubbornness, you'll regret it."

Bartholomeo, with a more robust and imposing presence, added, "Scarlett, it's fine to have occasional disagreements with your partner, but it's inappropriate to embarrass him in public. He's sincerely trying, it 9 61%

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Chapter 157 Turning Down The Proposal

would be inconsiderate of you to make a scene at this juncture."

Caught off guard by their sudden advocacy for Javier, Scarlett looked at them incredulously and questioned, "You're okay with me marrying him? Why?"

Historically, they had always insisted she marry into wealth, yet Javier was not wealthy.

After exchanging a hesitant look, Sienna responded, "Of course, we're concerned about your happiness. You're an adult now, and as your elders, our primary desire is to see you happy. Nothing else matters." Trying to appear conciliatory, Bartholomeo offered a forced smile and assured, "Javier truly cares for you. Trusting him with your well-being puts our minds at case."

Scarlett eyed them warily, as if seeing strangers where her family stood. Their sudden display of concern was unexpected, especially considering the silent conflicts that had arisen from her recent defiance. Scarlett, rarely on the receiving end of genuine familial support, hesitated slightly, her expression softening, yet her determination remained firm. "L... I'm not right for him," she stated definitively.

She attempted to leave, only to be gently restrained by her family, each holding one of her arms. "Darling, think it over again," implored Sienna.

"We all think highly of Javier and believe in your relationship," added Bartholomeo, echoing the sentiment.

Isabella and her companions watched the drama unfold with astonishment.

Danielle voiced her suspicions candidly, "Would they still be so supportive if they knew that Javier had swindled ten million? It feels like they don't truly desire Scarlett's happiness." That's quite unsettling," Rosalie remarked.

Christopher, with a scornful chuckle, added, "Their concern is feigned. They're just underestimating

Scarlett."

Isabella inwardly scoffed at the situation,

Driven by their own interests, her relatives had always prioritized profit over her well-being. However, as Scarlett began to assert her financial independence and resist their control, they became desperate. Javier's timely proposal, promising not only to forego a dowry but also to offer a betrothal gift, appeared as a solution to them. He also assured them that marrying Scarlett would restore her to the obedient dutiful daughter she had once been, aligning perfectly with their ulterior motives.

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