Aspen thought, 'Mom's right. I have feelings for Andrew, but he might not feel the same. In the end, it's probably just my one-sided wishful thinking. To him, I'm just a tool, a servant he can command at will.

'Maybe he wouldn't refuse if I offered myself physically, but in his heart, I doubt he ever saw me as anything close to Lauren or Francesca. Wait—No, I'm not even hoping for a place like Lauren or Francesca.

'I'd be content with just a position like Natasha's, but it seems even that is too much to ask for.'

Feeling resigned, Aspen finally said, "Mom, just tell Dad that after the Grand Medical Summit, I'll return to Bridgefields with you."

Her heart felt cold and heavy.

Esther noticed her precious daughter's obvious sorrow and tried to comfort her. "Don't worry, Aspen. Once we're back in Bridgefields, your father and I will introduce you to the finest young men from the best families. You're not getting any younger. Once you're back, focus on settling down and don't wor