2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

After Tom’s second proposal, Cassandra’s entire family weighs in with their opinions. She decides to give Tom a chance but only after creating an informal contract between them? How would you characterize their approach in providing advice? What did you make of Cassandra and Tom’s process of aligning on a marriage contract? Was Tom already unknowingly in love with her? Did she already know it?

Cassandra was quite savvy in seeing that Tom would not take her concerns seriously unless she presented them in a non-emotional manner.

I think he was already in love with her but wasn't ready to come to terms with that emotion. She is looking at everything he has done for her, and she may not call it love, but it was certainly a really good start.

Tom was in love with Cassandra, but he couldn't admit it. The contract was a good idea. Tom's life revolves around negotiations and contracts. It was a good first step to document what was important for both parties.

I loved how her family weighed in. They didn’t do it heavy handedly and were considerate of her feelings. Cassandra, in turn, showed she was listening to them and responded thoughtfully and rationally, which made them trust her judgment. This was an important moment.

Cassandra recognized that Tom liked making deals and used that to work out what she was going to want. It was a smart move and highly effective. It was the first step in figuring out how to communicate with each other.

By this time, Tom was in love with Cassandra but wasn't ready to admit it. The contract was a brilliant idea, giving them a way to talk about their expectations and negotiate any sticking points up front.

Tom was definitely in love with Cassandra at this point but I don't think he realized he was. I loved the contract idea as it gave them the ability to talk through all of their issues.

Her family did a good job of communicating their concerns but allowing her to take the lead. They trusted that she knew her own mind.