So, I have three updates for you. I know how much you have been waiting for two of them. Village and Magic Waters are now updated! Enjoy! And enjoy this one—it's getting good, ya'll!

The rest of brunch was uneventful. Mary and Rebecca discussed the wedding and how excited they were to finally make it happen. Stacey and Stefanie made sure they cleared their schedule for dress shopping with Mercedes and her bridesmaids.

After the men left to get ready for the engagement party, Mercedes was surprised to see Stacey lingering behind Stefanie.

Walking over to them, Stacey offered her a smile. "I won't keep you. I know tonight is a big event, so I just. Mercedes, I know my brother can be difficult."

"And stubborn and hardheaded, a cocky know it all at times," Stefanie added.

Stacey shook her head with a smile, "Anyways, I just want to thank you. We both do."

Mercedes led them to the sitting room and sat on the sofa as she looked at the two women before her. "Okay, so what do you mean you want to thank me?"

Stefanie took Mercedes's hand, sitting next to her. "In this society, women are often seen and not heard; they don't do anything that a man can do, and they don't talk back in front of mixed company; my father was one of those men."

Stacey let out a deep breath. "I have been wanting to get into the family business, but my father decided that he wanted me to focus on getting married."

"So what did I do?" Mercedes questioned.

"Did you see our father's face in there as you stood up for yourself? You are changing things, making a way for us women to actually have a voice. And the way you stood up to Sam, no one does that." Stacey added,

"Well, we do." Stefanie laughed. "But no woman wants to piss him off. They are so scared our brother will not want them that they let him have his way. He needs someone like you, someone who will challenge and make him better. And who will pave the way for us."

"We meant what we said; we really want to help with your shelter. Please put us to work."

Mercedes nodded. "I will…you know, if you really want to get out there, with me taking over Jones Media I am gonna need all the help I can get bringing both companies together. So what if you come on as consultants?"

Stefanie's eyes widened. "Are yo-are you for real?"

Mercedes nodded. "Yes, can I assume you two went to college? If not, that's okay."

Stacey nodded. "You should know this place makes no sense. We are supposed to get a degree to show that we are smart, and then we get married and be submissive; it makes no sense."

Mercedes wholeheartedly agreed with Stacey; it was stupid. "That's what I didn't understand. My father wanted me to go to Harvard to be a force, and then he wanted me to marry a man who would make me small? No, that isn't me, and it's not what's going to happen."

Stefanie squeezed Mercedes's hand. "You are just what we need. And Stacey and I both would be honored to come on in any capacity."

Mercedes nodded. "Well, let's make it happen sooner rather than later."

Sam walked his mother out the door as his father, and Julian spoke more. The afternoon sun bathed the street in a warm glow. The engagement party was only a few hours away, but Mary had something on her mind. To Dwight, this was a business deal, but to Mary, it was so much more.

She knew that Dwight was leaning towards the Pearce's, so the moment she learned Mercedes was back, she planted the seed. She laughed, reminding him that years ago, we tried marrying Sam off. When he sighed, saying it would be better with the Jones, Mary reminded him that Mercedes wasn't married.

Though she never interfered, she kept tabs on Mercedes, and the woman she was, Mary was sure she'd be a love match for Sam.

Stopping before they reached the town car, Mary turned to face Sam with a curious smile.

"So," she began, folding her arms gently, "Tell me, what do you think of her?"

Sam glanced at his mother, then looked down at the ground, hands in his pockets. "Who? Mercedes?" he asked, though he already knew the answer.

"The Easter bunny, of course, I mean, Mercedes," Mary said, her voice soft but teasing. "What do you think of the woman you're about to be engaged to?"

Sam sighed, rubbing the back of his neck; he knew there was no lying to his mother. "Well, she's beautiful... and headstrong. She doesn't fall for all the usual lines; I am pretty sure she is going to keep me on my toes."

"You've been spoiled, all these girls falling at your feet with just that charming Evans smile?" She teased.

His lips curled into a small smile. "Yeah… she's a challenge. And I think I like that."

Mary's face lit up with approval. "Good," she said warmly. "You need that. Someone to match your stubbornness, your work ethic." She gave his arm a gentle squeeze. "It's clear as day that she is exactly what you need—someone who won't let you coast but will make you work for it."

Sam chuckled. "Yeah, she definitely won't make anything easy."

Mary leaned against the side of her car, her expression softening. "You know... Mercedes reminds me so much of her mother."

Sam raised an eyebrow. "Her mom? You knew her well?"

"Yes, we grew up together and went to the all-girl boarding school together. Once we got married, we did our best to meet up a few times a year…" Mary nodded, her gaze distant for a moment. "She looked just like Mercedes—same striking beauty, and she was just as smart and bold. There was no one quite like her. They've got that same fire, which I think is special."

Sam looked thoughtful for a moment, the weight of his mother's words settling in. He hadn't known much about Mercedes or her mother, but hearing this gave him a new perspective on who Mercedes was and why she was the way she was.

"I'm proud of you, Sam," Mary said suddenly, pulling him back to the moment. "This might not have started out the way either of you planned, but you're doing the right thing. And I think you're going to be happy with her." She reached into her bag and pulled out a small, velvet box, her hands shaking just slightly as she held it out to him.

"What's this?" Sam asked, his brow furrowed.

Mary smiled, opening the box to reveal a stunning engagement ring—three carats, set in platinum, with intricate vintage detailing around the band. "This was your grandmother's," she said, her voice tinged with emotion. "It's been passed down in our family for generations. If you want to buy Mercedes something new, you can, but... if you think she's worthy—"

"She is," Sam said quickly, surprised at how certain he was.

Mary's smile widened. "Then maybe you'll want to give her this. It's special. Just like her."

Sam took the box, feeling the weight of the ring, both physically and emotionally. He looked at his mother, his heart swelling with gratitude. "Thanks, Mom. This... this means a lot."

Mary reached up and kissed his cheek. "Just make sure you're ready. Marriage isn't always easy, but it's worth it."

Sam nodded, closing his hand around the box. "I'll make sure, no matter what, you will be proud, Mom."

Sam stood by the Limo, adjusting his crisp white button-down, his dark eyes scanning the entrance of Mercedes's house. His black slacks fit perfectly, his usual relaxed air replaced by a slight tension. He knew this was what his parents wanted. Still, just from the small interaction he had with Mercedes, he knew that their life together, however brief it was going to be, would be an interesting one.

Walking to the door, Sam exhaled as he lifted his hand to knock. His parents and the Jones were already at the venue, and while he had wanted to show up alone so he could get his bearings, his father suggested he pick Mercedes up. His sisters let him know they ordered a limo for them.

When the door opened, his breath caught; the more he saw of this woman, the more he realized that any man before him had to be an absolute fool.

Mercedes stepped out the front door, causing Sam to back up, her gold dress hugging her hourglass figure in all the right places. The shimmering fabric seemed to glow under the soft light of the setting sun, and her hair cascaded over her shoulders in loose waves. She moved with grace, her black heels clicking softly against the pavement as she stepped closer to him.

"Sei bellissima," Sam murmured, telling her she was really beautiful in Italian, his voice low and admiring.

Mercedes rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress the smile that tugged at the corner of her lips. "Grazie." She said softly. "Shall we go?"

He grinned, extending his arm. "Yes, we shall."

Mercedes hesitated for a moment before she took his arm, letting him lead her to the Limo; the air between them seemed lighter, though an unspoken tension still lingered.

As Sam opened the door and let the driver know they were ready, Mercedes looked around the glamorous Limo and sighed. This was a surreal experience, as she never did the getting dressed up and limo thing.

Sam glanced over to her as they rode in a comfortable silence, deciding to break the ice.

"I hope the Limo is okay; my sisters thought you'd like it."

Mercedes glanced his way. "It's, um, nice; if we are being honest, I've never ridden in a limo before."

Sam raised an eyebrow. "You are Jones; how is that possible?"

Mercede shrugged. "I enjoyed driving myself to events I was made to attend, and then you have those events where a limousine should be present, like dances, and I never went to any, so I never had the pleasure."

Sam frowned. "Not even your Prom?"

Shaking her head, she looked out the window. "I was invited to attend Standford's Pre-College Program, and it started a week before prom, so I missed prom and graduation. It's not that I really cared."

"You didn't care you missed out on everything people did as Seniors?" Sam asked.

"No. I didn't have any friends, and as I told you, the boys I knew were immature, and I wanted nothing to do with them."

Sam nodded, sitting back in his seat, still reeling over this woman. This is a very beautiful and complex woman.

As they sat silently, she looked over to him. "I know I am not what you expected to find when your father said you were getting married."

Sam chuckled, "No, you are not."

She looked at him, and he offered her a smile. Rolling her eyes, she turned back to look out the window. "Asino Presuntuoso." She whispered.

"You really like thinking about my cock, huh? Calling me cocky every chance you get."

Refusing to look at him, she hated that arguing with him actually thrilled her.

Sam looked over her silhouette, rubbing his hands on his slacks. "Mercedes, I know you think I am all kinds of an asshole, as you so eloquently said. But, you know," he began, his voice quieter than usual, "the pressure you feel from your parents, I felt too, from my own... it was suffocating at times. The expectations, the responsibilities... I always felt like I had to live up to something that wasn't even me. So being in this situation, at least you know we have that in common."

Mercedes glanced at him, her expression softening; maybe they could reach a common ground if they were more open with each other. "I get that. I was... I was lonely most of my life. Even surrounded by people, I never felt like I truly belonged anywhere." She let out a small sigh, staring back out the window. "Losing my mother at a young age... it's hard to explain, but... I guess I always felt like I was just missing something."

Their eyes met briefly, a shared understanding passing between them. For a heartbeat, the world outside the car seemed to fade, and they seemed to be pulled towards each other, but then they both looked away, the silence between them growing heavier.

As the Limo stopped, Sam stepped out first, smoothing his shirt before walking around to Mercedes' side so he could open the door for her.

Once she stepped out, Sam extended his hand toward her.

Mercedes glanced at his hand and then back at him, shaking her head. "I can walk just fine without help."

Sam raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "We need to look the part, remember? We've got an audience waiting."

Mercedes let out a soft sigh but placed her hand in his. "Fine, but only for appearances."

"Of course," he replied, though the warmth in his grip lingered longer than necessary.

Together, they walked into the country club, its grand ballroom shining with gold and black hues that reflected elegance. The three chandeliers cast a soft glow over the room, illuminating the pristine tables and the fresh flowers that filled the air with a light fragrance.

Mercedes' steps faltered as they walked into the room, and close to around 150 of their associates filled the space, all dressed in their finest attire, sipping champagne and mingling.

Sam pulled her close, feeling her nerves. "It's okay; we are doing this together."

Mercedes looked at him, giving him a nod of agreement and appreciation.

As they entered, the room shifted—eyes immediately gravitated toward them. Conversations fell short as people began to murmur, and the soft clink of glasses paused as heads turned to watch them fully enter the ballroom.

Mercedes was nervous, and it showed as Sam leaned into her. "All eyes are on you because you are the most beautiful woman here."

She turned to him, looking into his eyes to see if he was serious. "I'm not used to this."

Sam lifted her hand to his lips. "You need to get used to it."

"I didn't say you could kiss me."

Sam's eyes twinkled with mischief. "I told you, I take what I want."

"And I told you, I am not on that list." She said hiding a smile. This man was different.

Sam stood taller as he walked further into the venue. "Smile," Sam whispered, his thumb gently stroking the back of her hand. "We are supposed to be celebrating."

She forced a small smile, her gaze sweeping the room, taking it all in. Before she could say anything, their parents approached them with broad smiles on their faces.

"Well, don't you two look like the Power Couple you were meant to be," Dwight said brightly. "This is your day, so make sure you enjoy it."

Mary beamed as she and Rebecca gushed over Mercedes's dress. "You are a vision in Gold…Sammy, I hope you told her how beautiful she looks right now."

"He did," Mercedes said, reassuring them. "You have raised him well."

Julian looked at Mercedes. "It's wonderful to see you two finally making the right decision. This is exactly what's best for both of you. Now, let's get this show on the road."

As the crowd's murmurs settled, Sam and Mercedes glanced at each other, before they were guided toward the grand stage at the front of the ballroom.

The black-and-gold backdrop framed the podium, giving the space an air of prestige. Mercedes's father stepped towards the microphone, before he stood proudly, his posture straight and his smile practiced as the gathered guests quieted to listen.

"Good evening, everyone," her father began, his voice carrying confidently across the room. "I want to thank you all for being here. Tonight, we celebrate an engagement and the unification of two great families. I've watched my daughter grow into the remarkable woman she is today. I couldn't be happier that she's found a match in Sam, who is not only a fine man but comes from a family we deeply respect."

He glanced at Mercedes and Sam, beaming as he continued. "This engagement symbolizes a bright future for all of us. Together, Mercedes and Sam will lead our families into a new chapter—one of prosperity, unity, and lasting strength."

A round of applause followed his words as he nodded to Dwight, inviting him to the stage. Dwight smiled as he stepped forward.

Dwight was definitely more reserved than Mercedes's father but no less excited for the future of their company. He cleared his throat and smiled, his gaze shifting between the couple. "I couldn't be more pleased with the path that lies ahead for Sam and Mercedes. As Julian stated, our families have always shared a deep respect for one another. Now, this union will benefit everyone. It's a powerful thing to see two people who not only care about each other but who also represent the charge of both families toward a future we can all be proud of."

Sam leaned into Mercedes with a smirk, whispering into her ear. "Our fathers sure do know how to lay it on thick, don't they."

Mercedes giggled nodding. "Well, we are forging the ultimate alliance." She said mocking her father's tone.

Julian moved towards Sam and Mercedes. "Now, the lovely couple would like to say something." He covered the mic, looking at Mercedes. "Don't embarrass me."

Sam took a deep breath, glancing at Mercedes beside him as the applause for their parents' speeches faded. Though he could see a small scowl, from what her father said, she still looked stunning, radiating elegance and confidence, and at that moment, he knew what he needed to do. Reaching for the microphone, Sam gently kissed her cheek, before he cleared his throat, his gaze locking with hers.

"I know my future bride wanted to say something but I hope you don't mind me saying something …" Sam began, his voice steady yet warm.

The room quieted, all eyes focused on the couple at the center of attention. Mercedes raised an eyebrow, slightly confused but curious.

"I know that our courtship hasn't been long," he started, figuring it was better not to say it was only a day in the making; his hand gently took hers, "but in that time, I've seen just how extraordinary you are, Mercedes. You're strong, you're fierce, and you're breathtakingly beautiful." He paused, letting the sincerity of his words settle. "But more than that, you've shown me what it means to stand tall, to have conviction, and to challenge me in ways I didn't know I needed."

Mercedes blinked, her lips parting in surprise as she felt the sincerity behind his words. This was not the cocky asshole she had met earlier.

"You aren't someone who will ever settle for less; I respect that about you." His voice lowered slightly, becoming more intimate as if the words were only meant for her. "La tua forza mi fa venire voglia di essere un uomo migliore. E la tua bellezza... mi lascia senza parole ogni giorno." Your strength makes me want to be a better man. And your beauty... leaves me speechless every day.

Mercedes slightly gasped as people murmured around them and hung on Sam's every word.

He released her hand for a moment, reaching into his pocket. Mercedes' eyes widened as Sam dropped to one knee in front of her. A soft gasp echoed through the crowd, and Mercedes' heart pounded in her chest.

"Mercedes, you are going to change my world in ways I never expected, and surprisingly I am looking forward to it." Sam continued, holding up the ring—the one his mother had given him, the heirloom. "I know our engagement came fast, but I am still a traditional man. So, Mercedes Jones, will you marry me?"

The room seemed to hold its breath as everyone waited for her response.

Mercedes' eyes glistened with unshed tears as she stared down at Sam. She hated all this stuff, yet here she was, the center of attention, and a man was making her feel emotional; all she wanted to do was flee.

But then, for a moment, it felt like the world had shrunk down to just the two of them, and everything else faded away. She nodded slowly, a tear slipping free, and a bright smile broke through her surprise.

"Yes," she whispered, her voice almost lost in the rush of emotions.

Sam's grin spread wide across his face as he gently slipped the ring onto her finger, surprising them both that it was a perfect fit. Rising to his feet, he couldn't take his eyes off her, unsure why his heart swelling with pride, excitement, and something deeper.

Just as Sam stood, Stevie's voice rang out from the crowd, his tone teasing but encouraging. "Kiss her, man!"

Laughter bubbled up from the audience as more guests joined in, clinking their glasses in a rhythmic chant. "Kiss her, kiss her, kiss her!"

Mercedes raised an eyebrow at Sam, subtly shaking her head no as a playful smirk tugged at the corners of Sam's lips.

"We gotta give the people what they want," Sam said; before she could say anything, Sam slid an arm around her waist and pulled her close.

He leaned down, his breath brushing against her lips as she shuddered and whispered, "I guess we don't have a choice."

Without another word, Sam kissed her—slowly at first, savoring the soft warmth of her lips. Still, then it deepened, becoming more passionate as she surprised him, wrapping her arms around him.

At that moment, the kiss ignited something between them, a spark that neither expected but both felt. Mercedes melted into him, her hands resting on his shoulders, her heart racing as the room erupted in applause and cheers.

When they finally pulled back, breathless and wide-eyed, Mercedes' cheeks flushed, and Sam's heart hammered in his chest, there was no denying that their connection had just shifted.

The guests applauded once more, and Sam nodded at his father with and Julian before leading Mercedes off the stage. They made their way to a corner, where Sam stared at her with a smirk.

Mercedes moved away from him, trying to keep her bearings, needing to shake off the flurry of emotions swirling inside her.

"You can take that smirk off your face. That kiss," she started, avoiding his gaze. "it didn't mean anything."

Sam lifted her chin so he could look at her. His grin was teasing, but his eyes were steady, searching hers. "You're lying, Mercedes."

She crossed her arms, moving from him defiantly. "You think you know everything, don't you?"

"I know you felt that kiss as much as I did," Sam said, stepping closer, his voice dropping to a low murmur. "And you can keep pretending it didn't mean anything, but we both know the truth."

Mercedes' eyes narrowed, her cheeks heating at the intensity of his stare. She had felt the kiss—every nerve in her body had reacted to it—but she wasn't about to let him get the upper hand.

"Sei un coglione presuntuoso," she snapped, her voice sharp with frustration.

Sam chuckled softly at the familiar insult, watching her storm off. "Yeah, I know I'm a cocky asshole, but you're still lying to yourself, Mercedes."