When Two Winters Met (Henrietta and Yosef) novel Chapter 88

Yosef didn’t respond immediately, his gaze fixed on her in silence. After a moment, he said, “My wife should never have to sacrifice her well-being for the sake of appearances. A man’s reputation isn’t earned by his wife. On the contrary, if a man’s reputation is strong enough, his wife won’t have to suffer such indignities.”

His words stunned Henrietta. “You don’t mind?”

“I don’t,” Yosef confirmed. “I’m not getting any younger. I want to get married and have a stable partner. In my eyes, you are a suitable candidate. My mother is also very fond of you. I wonder if you would be willing to settle for an old man like me.”

Henrietta was still reeling from the shock. It was as if he had already made up his mind, as if he had come here fully prepared. Had he decided from the start that if she showed up, he would agree to the marriage?

Seeing her surprise, Yosef waited patiently.

“You don’t mind that I was in a relationship for several years?” Henrietta asked.

“I’ve had past relationships as well,” he replied. “And from what you’ve said, it sounds like you were betrayed and hurt. So why would I mind?”

Henrietta considered this. It made sense. If you weren’t looking for love, only mutual respect, then the past shouldn't matter. Still, some men would mind even in a marriage of convenience, especially a man like Yosef. It was surprising that he didn't.

“Oh,” Henrietta said. “Was your past relationship with Ms. Leland?”

Yosef nodded. “Yes, we were together for a while.”

Emboldened, she asked, “I heard you two were serious. Why did you call off the engagement?”

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