Ashton had mentioned to Elaine before that the Drake family wanted him to return to his roots, but their acceptance came with strings attached: he’d have to agree to an arranged marriage.

Now, with Brian’s visit, the situation seemed contradictory. Brian appeared to be accepting Elaine.

Had the Drakes changed their minds?

If there were no conditions, why wasn’t the family approaching Ashton directly instead of trying to persuade her? ...