Chapter 5

What a great plan! They even used their wedding gift money to cover the banquet expenses; they didn't spend a penny. Was this their way of freeloading a daughter-in-law?

This was just the beginning. Scarlet greedily eyed the jade bracelet on her wrist, declaring, "I think I'll just do this! This bracelet is lovely; it can be a family heirloom. On your wedding day, I'll personally give it to you for all our relatives and friends to see. You'll have so much face, won't you?"

The abacus beads of my patience snapped! Taking my things and giving them back to me in front of others—was that giving me face? Did I really need this kind of face?

I sneered and glanced at Drew, seeking his reaction. He grinned, mirroring his mother's avarice.

"Penelope," Drew said, "Mother just wants to borrow the bracelet for a while, to have you wear it at the wedding. It's a formality; don't overthink it. The bracelet is still yours. It's mainly to show our family's appreciation to our relatives and friends, for your reputation, you know!"

So, this was his true face—freeloading, just like his parents.

"Taking my things and giving them back to me as heirlooms? Whose family's legacy is this, whose treasure? Do you all think I'm a fool?"

Kolby slammed his fork down. "What do you mean, you won't get married?"

Scarlet's face hardened. "Penelope, you need to think carefully. With your current circumstances, finding someone like Drew isn't easy!"

"What about my circumstances? Why is it suddenly difficult?"

"Do I need to spell it out? You earn less than four thousand dollars a month, you're lazy and spendthrift. What family would want you as their daughter-in-law?"

"We accepted you because of Drew. You live in Drew's house, spend his money, and now you won't marry him? That's unacceptable!"

I couldn't take it anymore. I slammed the table. "Who says this is Drew's house? Who says I spend his money? You're all so scheming! Drew, tell your mother to return the bracelet immediately, and get them both out of my house. I'm not serving them anymore!"

Chapter 5 (continued)

Drew's face contorted. He angrily scolded, "Penelope! What are you talking about! Come to the bedroom, we need to talk!"

Kolby, like an enraged boar, knocked over his bowl. He roared, "This is outrageous! Look at her! Where did you find this, Drew? Get rid of her! Who would beg her to marry? Get out! There are plenty better than her, what is she pretending for!"

"Kick me out? What gives you the right? This is my house; you should leave! All of you, get out!"

Drew gritted his teeth and shouted, "Shut up!"

He slapped me across the mouth and nose, stunning me. I stood there, nosebleeding, the silence punctuated only by the sound of the blood drops hitting the floor. Drew stared at his trembling hand, stunned by his own action.