"But it's my mother's fault," she countered.

"She could have chosen a different life. Being with you, I'm always at risk of being criticized, and I don't want that. I admit I'm weak and selfish. I just want to maintain my life with my family. I like you, but my life isn't just about you."

Edwin had considered these things.

The Evans and Fowler families had longstanding enemies.

A relationship with Laura could reopen old wounds, likely involving the Smith family.