I thought back to how Zoe and Harlan first met and their initial attraction, feeling a bit nostalgic.
They had such a hard time coming together, all while Danielle was continuously in the way.
If this situation persisted, their relationship was bound to deteriorate.
It would be such a shame if they ended up parting ways.
Thus, I admonished him firmly, âHarlan, even if her dependence on you is strong, it shouldnât be overwhelming.
If you donât believe me, just ask around-what sister doesnât want her brother to find a mate? What sister desires to keep her brother all to herself? Plus, as a woman, I can clearly discern her true motives.
â
Harlan stopped to think.
I continued in a composed manner, âIf youâre still hesitant to believe, then reflect on this-since you started dating, havenât you noticed Danielle exhibiting many behaviors that go beyond normal sibling interactions?â
âWellâ¦â
Harlan became quiet.
After a thoughtful pause, he nodded solemnly.
âDebra, I apologize, I was too frustrated earlier because of Danielle.
Youâre right; Danielleâs actions are certainly unusual.
â
My stern look eased slightly.
That was a better response.
Harlan wasnât entirely lost to reason, or else his relationship with Zoe was indeed doomed.
Yet, to truly clear up this matter, I continued sternly, âHarlan, if you genuinely want to marry Zoe, you canât allow situations like today to recur.
You need to address the issue with Danielle, or Zoe will continue to hold back.
â
Harlanâs expression grew more serious.
He pondered briefly, then inquired cautiously, âDebra, is Zoe staying away because of Danielle?â
I shook my head, patting his shoulder.
âNot just because of Danielle.
More importantly, Zoe doesnât want to place you in a difficult situation, nor does she wish to be caught in a petty feud of jealousy and manipulation with another woman.
Thatâs why sheâs reluctant to return with you.
â
A spark lit up in Harlanâs eyes, and he smiled, asking with a hint of joy, âAre you sure thatâs the reason?â
âAbsolutely, I responded confidently.
â
Harlanâs smile widened, his face glowing with excitement.
âOkay, I get it now, thank you.
Iâll go talk to Zoe right away.
â
With that, he quickly left.
Caleb and I exchanged helpless looks.
Zoeâs POV:
After leaving the restaurant, I roamed through the streets of the Xeric Pack.
I wasnât acquainted with the Xeric Pack and didnât know where to find entertainment, so I just strolled aimlessly, as though I was out for a post-meal walk.
But the freedom to think led me to dwell on various thoughts.