Lovestory 6 — Chapter 1

My boyfriend's parents were visiting. They disparaged my $3,200 monthly salary, but their eyes lingered on my two-million-dollar jade bracelet. When we discussed marriage, his mother suggested, "This bracelet would make a perfect family heirloom. When you marry Drew, I'll pass it to you in front of all our relatives and friends. Wouldn't that be lovely?"

I almost laughed aloud, thinking, They want to use my bracelet as their family heirloom? Nice try!

Six months into my relationship with Drew Larson, I discovered a group chat titled "Happy Family" on his phone. His father, Kolby Larson, inquired, "Drew, you've been dating Penelope for over six months now, right? How much does she earn monthly?"

Drew replied honestly, "3,800."

Kolby: "Still 3,800? She's a college graduate. Why so little?"

Kolby: "I make 5,300 a month at the construction site. With your status, you could find someone better. Why settle for someone who earns 3,800? She can barely support herself; how will she help you buy a house or a car?"

Drew: "It's okay, Dad. Her company provides great benefits. Our food and supplies are covered, saving us a lot."

Drew's mother, Scarlet Barnett, added, "What about rent? You cover it and let her live rent-free? Break up with her and find someone else. Many girls would be interested in you."

Drew and his parents fell silent. He didn't defend me. I knew what that meant. I decided then to end the relationship.

A few days later, Drew announced his parents wanted to visit and hoped I'd agree. My company provided this house as a benefit, but to spare Drew's feelings, I told him it was a rental. Drew, however, told his parents he rented it for $2,500 a month.

His pride demanded I make him look good to outsiders and elders. So I didn't reveal my own company or my mother's status as a local tycoon. For his sake, I maintained my salary was $3,800 with excellent company benefits, covering all our living expenses.

Drew believed this and moved into my guest room. I hesitated about his parents staying, especially after reading their chat; I dreaded facing them.

Drew pleaded, "They're my parents, Penelope! They just want to visit. Let them come; it's a chance to get to know each other."

I thought, Get to know each other? I think they're after something more!

Nevertheless, I agreed. I wanted to see how they'd treat their future daughter-in-law, a woman earning $3,800 a month.

Unexpectedly, Drew announced the next afternoon that his parents had arrived.

Enraged, I snapped, "You should have told me! How could you wait until they were already here?"

Drew dismissed my concerns. "What's the big deal? I didn't want to disturb you. You're pretty; they'll like you. There's nothing to prepare for. Just come home confidently; I'll pick you up."

Knowing his parents were reserved, I applied light makeup at the office. On the way home, Drew repeatedly reminded me to be polite and respectful, and above all, to make him look good. He stressed I shouldn't mention the house was provided by my company; his parents would be furious if they knew he lived in my house.

I didn't understand, but complied.