Lauren's heart sank, but her face remained cold and distant. She declared firmly, "No one has the right to decide about my marriage except me."

Michael let out a scornful laugh. "I knew you'd resist, but it's pointless. This arranged marriage has been approved by the head of the family and the Rhodes Corporation board members. You have no choice in the matter, whether you object or not."

With a mocking glance, Michael walked away.

Lauren sat back in her chair, feeling helpless as she mumbled, "Even after everything, I still can't escape being another steppingstone for the family's expansion…"

Her gaze flashed with determination as she continued, "The Driscoll family might be powerful, but I refuse to accept this arrangement!"

However, it did not last long. The light in Lauren's eyes quickly dimmed as she let out a bitter laugh.

She wondered aloud, mumbling, "What about his feelings for me? These past few days, he's completely focused on Christina, ignoring me. Perhaps Mic