Mr. Clark placed his teacup on the table. He looked at Lucas with the gaze of a father.
"I appreciate your good intentions, Lucas," he said, his tone calm but firm. "But I have to refuse this proposal."
Lucas raised an eyebrow slightly. His expression remained composed. "May I know the reason?"
Mr. Clark let out a long sigh before answering. "Veronica is still in the process of psychological recovery. The trauma she experienced hasn't fully healed. I don't want to add more pressure by forcing her into marriage, especially not with someone she didn't choose herself."
He then turned to his daughter with a gentle, loving gaze. "Veronica must marry because she wants to, not out of coercion, pressure, or pity. I won't turn marriage into an escape from pain, let alone a form of repayment for any debt."
Lucas paused for a moment, then gave a small nod. "I understand, and I respect your decision."
