Meet My Brothers

Mia paused briefly before replying, "It's not about that. I simply haven't considered being in a relationship. Besides, I've always found fulfillment in my independence."

"Even with a successful career, it's challenging for a woman to navigate alone. How do you intend to manage without a partner at home?"

"Ms. Lane, please don't take our directness the wrong way. We genuinely care about your well-being. The gentlemen we're recommending are highly regarded and sought after.

"It's only because of our close relationship with Aunt Patricia that we're bringing them to your attention. After all, finding good men nowadays is quite a challenge."

Upon hearing this, Patricia interjected, "Alright, that's enough. Women need to be self-reliant these days. After enduring a painful divorce, do you seriously expect Mia to jump back in and sacrifice everything just to please a man?"

The neighbors hesitated for a moment, their expression faltering. "You know, it might not be fair to generalize like that," they began tentatively. "Wasn't Ms. Lane in a happy marriage before? "Sometimes, differences in social backgrounds can complicate things. It's important for Ms. Lane to find someone with a similar background to ensure a stable and fulfilling life."

Patricia's demeanor shifted, a touch of irritation creeping into her expression. "Given Mia's exceptional qualities, who isn't she compatible with?

"I can't dictate her choices, but from my perspective, having a job, raising children, and finding happiness in life are what truly matter. These days, men aren't always the most reliable," she countered. At that moment, Mia gently nudged Patricia's hand. "It's getting late, we should head back now. The kids need to shower and get to bed," she suggested, steering Patricia away from the gossiping group. As they walked away, Patricia offered Mia some advice, "Try not to take what those two say too seriously. They're known for their loose tongues in the neighborhood, always ready to spread gossip. And those men they were talking about? Well, they're hardly exemplary.

"One of them, just before getting married, had the nerve to demand his pregnant fiancée to sign a prenup, stripping her of any financial entitlements and denying her a share in their mortgaged house. Sadly, she felt pressured and decided to have an abortion."

Mia's eyes widened at the revelation. "Didn't we hear something similar in the news before?"

"Quite possibly. The circumstances are sadly familiar. The woman had a promising future, but her partner's family was unreasonable. Divorce was undoubtedly the right decision.

"Then there's the other divorced

man, a classic mama's boy. He was caught cheating and even turned violent when his wife confronted him. It's no surprise they ended up going their separate ways.

"Now he's living it up, enjoying his decent job and savings. Ironically, it was his ex-wife who supported him financially while he pursued his Ph.D. He's hardly someone to admire if you ask me."

Mia couldn't help but find the real-life drama more captivating than any fiction.

Seeing Patricia's indignation, Mia offered a reassuring smile. "Their words won't bother me."

"Mia, are you really not considering getting into a relationship?"

"For the moment, it's not a priority for me. I'll think about it when I meet someone who truly matches what I'm looking for."

In truth, Mia hadn't devoted much thought to these matters. After all, matters of the heart weren't something she approached casually.

Patricia offered Mia a comforting pat on the hand. "That's understandable. Relationships do require time. Just focus on being financially secure, and everything else will come together."

Mia felt grateful for Patricia's empathy. Intrigued, she asked, "How's Uncle James doing in the hospital?"

"It's been the usual routine, but his condition is deteriorating day by day. The doctors are advising us to prepare ourselves emotionally.

"Honestly, if it weren't for Dominic

covering his medical expenses,

Uncle James wouldn't have made it this far. But at times, I can't help but feel that his continued existence only serves to prolong his suffering."

"Aunt Patricia, please don't say that. What if Uncle James wakes up? Grandma Laura recovered, so there's still hope."Còntens bel0ngs to Nô(v)elDr/a/ma.Org

"Unfortunately, it's not quite the same. I appreciate your efforts to comfort me, but I've come to terms with the reality. My main concern now is for you."

"I'm fortunate to have the support of my brothers, and I'm financially stable. Frankly, I'm in a much better position than many others."