“Joe, you can marry her after you return from Scotland,” Mrs. Shelly suggested warmly.

Mr. Jacob added, “Yes, son. Just think it through once more.”

“I know exactly what I want, Dad,” Joe said firmly.

“I’ll speak with Franklin,” Mr. Jacob continued. “But I won’t pressure Ivy’s family for an immediate answer. Just keep that in mind.”

“You don’t need to worry about that, Dad,” Joe replied. “I’ll handle it myself.”

One hour later, “Please, Mr. Jacob, have a ...