Ruth stood to the side, feeling a mix of guilt and frustration. She knew Julian blamed her for upsetting Aiden and for her greed. "Do you even understand what I've been trying to do?" she muttered. "I thought a $120,000 dowry would help ease your burden, especially with Valerie's careless spending!"

"Mom!" Julian snapped, sharply cutting her off. "I might not be a hero, but I won't trade my sister's happiness for our comfort!"

His stern words left Ruth speechless. Julian then turned to thank Matthew again, just as the ambulance doors closed, and they headed toward the hospital.

After a brief moment of consciousness, Aiden drifted back to sleep, exhausted. Julian tucked him in gently, then confronted Ashley. "Why did you bring Mom along today? What were you thinking?"

Ashley, taken aback by his directness, shot back, "Why shouldn't I? It's only right she knows about her daughter's wedding. Imagine the gossip in the village if Valerie married without telling her mother. I was thinking of her reputation."

"Her reputation? Don't think I'm blind to your schemes. When Mom talked about that $60,000 dowry for a new house, you were already counting that cash. Let me be clear, Ashley—Valerie is my sister, not some commodity to be bartered. Anyone who tries to sell her off will answer to me!"

Julian, typically calm and collected, was more furious than Ashley had ever seen him. His anger stemmed entirely from his protective feelings toward Valerie.

Ashley, visibly shaken by his unusual firmness, nodded timidly. "Okay, okay, I'll listen. Just keep it down; Aiden's still very fragile," she whispered.

Julian's expression softened at the thought of Aiden, a wave of relief washing over him. He felt thankful for Matthew's timely intervention, which had averted a crisis. Despite his initial reservations about his stern-faced brother-in-law, gratitude now filled his heart. Valerie had chosen Matthew, and Julian was ready to respect and accept that choice.

After Julian and the others left, Ruth's resolve weakened. She knew pushing matters further would only infuriate Julian. She cared little for Valerie but was deeply concerned about her son's well-being, seeing him as her future support. However, the idea of leaving without any gain was unbearable.

After a moment's thought, she cleared her throat and approached Matthew. "Since you two are already married, I can't change that. But we have our roles. Let's settle at $100,000, and I'll stay out of your business," she declared, then turned and left with her head held high.

Valerie was about to retort, but Matthew stopped her. They were in a residential area, and making a scene would only attract unwanted attention. Reluctantly, she followed him upstairs.

Matthew led the way, his tall frame just ahead. Valerie, looking up, could only see his back, his expression unreadable.

A sudden sadness overwhelmed Valerie. She had always portrayed herself as strong. Despite her parents' opposition, she had persevered in her education, splitting a single bun into two meals to survive and still managing to secure a university place. She was a top salesperson at Arcton Cars, a testament to her capabilities and proof that she could match any man. Her resilience was evident as she faced challenges from Isabel and the cunning Dylan without ever backing down.

Outwardly gentle, her inner strength was deep-seated. She had always been self-reliant, never depending on others. While she admired girls who were doted on and cherished, she was determined to prove she could flourish on her own. However, at that moment, as her mother demanded a $100,000 dowry, her carefully maintained facade of strength shattered.